Dagmar Midcap puts in her notice at WGCL-TV
Dagmar Midcap in 2008. CREDIT: Hyosub Shin/AJC
Dagmar Midcap, the popular weather reader on CBS affiliate WGCL-TV, turned in her notice with the TV station this morning.
Her bosses weren’t there so she’s not sure when her last day will be. Reached Friday afternoon, Steve Schwaid, WGCL-TV news director, said she is still under contract and had no other comment.
Midcap, who arrived at WGCL in 2007, said the death of her boyfriend, who took his own life in July 2009, precipitated this departure. (For respect for the family, she requested we not release his name.)
She has been meeting with a grief counselor and therapists to grapple with her loss. She has nightmares and has been unable to sleep soundly. She said she takes medication and sleep aids.
“I can’t keep doing that,” she said. “It’s starting to affect me on the air. I can’t think on the air.”
She said she also may have some stress-related vocal cord damage she’s worried might be permanent.
“Doctors told me my body is breaking down,” she said in an emotional interview at the Silver Skillet in Midtown Friday just minutes after she had handed in her resignation. “I can’t stay here. It’s too difficult for me to move forward.”
She said WGCL has been a wonderful opportunity, but she said she can’t cope with being in the city where she fell in love, where everything reminds her of her late boyfriend.
In March 31, 2008, just a year after arriving at the station, she signed a four-year contract through 2012. (She said the station wanted her to stay five.) The station and viewers embraced her. After moving her to evenings, management plastered her face on billboards.
“My job has been to make people happy,” she said. The notes she’s gotten, from the 100-year-old man to the 20-year-old woman, say “I gave them joy at the end of the day, a smile. That was my job.” After his death, “it was difficult to find that joy.”
She said she has been negotiating the past few months to get out of her contract early but had been unable to come up with a date both sides could mutually agree on.
Midcap met her boyfriend in 2007 soon after she arrived. He was a neighbor. They fell in love almost immediately. Their first date was Martinis & Imax at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History. They visited Stone Mountain Park, a favorite spot for him.
“We were inseparable,” she said. “He was everything to me. He was my best friend.”
But she sensed his fragility and tried to open up his world. They traveled to Charleston, S.C., Asheville, N.C., Seaside, Fla, and the North Georgia mountains. She bought a home just outside Decatur in hopes he would join her.
The last time she saw him, she said, he had arrived at her home, flowers and an apple pie from Whole Foods in hand. He apologized to her for his negativity and promised they’d always be together. “I thought he was making a breakthrough,” she said. “I didn’t understand what he was really saying.”
Midcap found out about his death July 2009, during the 4 p.m. newscast in her news director’s office. She collapsed in shock. She stayed off air for 11 days.
Coming back, she said, was incredibly difficult. But she put on a happy face and viewers hardly noticed until six months later. “I had one bad night. I wasn’t as perky. I was on the verge of tears on the air,” she said.
Colleagues, though, noticed her withdrawn behavior off air. She’d sometimes cry at her desk, she said.
Two weeks ago, she visited R. Thomas, a restaurant she and her boyfriend enjoyed. It was an attempt to try to get past the pain, she said. Instead, she got sick.
She isn’t sure what her plans are next. She said she has no job in hand and isn’t sure where she is going, though the West Coast is likely. She had worked in Los Angeles and her hometown of Vancouver before coming to Atlanta.
“I have no manager,” she said. “I’ve got nothing.”
Later, in a moment of humor, she added, “I may be picking grapefruits out there. But I’ll do what I need to do that’s right for me. I have to take my health into account.”
One thing she knows she’ll do is work with animals. “They have no malice,” she said, her face lighting up momentarily. “They need our help. They do what they do.”
[I've been moderating comments the past few days. I have shut down comments now though I may open it up again later. ]
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304 comments Add your comment
Joan Smith
September 3rd, 2010
6:12 pm
Dagmar, My family is so sorry for your loss and our prayers and thoughts are with you and your boyfriends family but you will be everyones loss in Atlanta and we will miss you very much. I know personally about depression and the tragic consequences of depression because my family has had suicides and my daughter attemped suicide, but we have our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and that gives us the assurance that we will see our loved ones again. God bless you
J. Lopez
September 3rd, 2010
6:12 pm
She needs time to grieve – she’s excellent on-air – I always liked seeing her. Loss is so hard to deal with – especially when loss is unexpected. Take your time, Dagmar. We’re with you.
kkong
September 3rd, 2010
6:13 pm
We’ll miss you, sweetheart. You’re the best that ever was.
Kathleen
September 3rd, 2010
6:17 pm
I am so sorry to hear of your sadness, Dagmar. You will be missed, but it’s good to know that you are trying to heal. Thanks for always projecting such a lovely sense of good will.
Kapoonka
September 3rd, 2010
6:19 pm
Wow!! No way I can imagine what you are going through Dagmar. No one would have ever guessed any of this had happened. I do know there was never a time I saw you that it didn’t make me happy and calm. Your mesmerizing voice and sweet demeanor was the perfect cure for a long day and bad traffic. I wish you the best as life goes on. Cherish the memories, and know that you have something special to offer the world. There’s no way to replace what you had, and time is not really a cure, but things will get better as you go on. You will land on your feet, and I pray that in time you will have the ability to live happily and eventuallly find love again. May God bless you and bring you the peace you deserve. Regards.
Al Burns
September 3rd, 2010
6:23 pm
Good Luck Dagmar. I hope you find peace wherever you go. God be with you.
curious
September 3rd, 2010
6:25 pm
Dagmar,
You had nothing to do with this terrible situation. There is nothing you could have done to change it. Unfortunately, bad things happen to good people. Life can be so cruel. I’m so sorry.
You are wise to take steps to take care of yourself. I know that you don’t know many of the people commenting here, but we care about you, and we all wish you well.
I have never cared for the CBS station. But, I gave them a chance when I saw you. I figured that anyone who hires a person like you can’t be all bad. You are a beautiful person, and it sure sounds like your beauty is more than skin deep.
Remember, God has a plan for your life. Be still, be patient and listen, you’ll find it.
God bless you.
TV Fan
September 3rd, 2010
6:30 pm
I’m so very sorry to read about all of this. I must admit, my husband and I joked when Dagmar arrived in Atlanta because she didn’t have stellar meteorological credentials, but honestly she won us over. She was bright and perky and was always good to make us smile. Television personalities are real people, and have real struggles just like the “rest” of us. I’m so very sorry to hear about her personal struggles. Dagmar, we’ll be praying for you to find peace and clarity and one day be smiling in the sunshine again. All the best…
Alan Harrington
September 3rd, 2010
6:31 pm
Dagmar..I am so sorry to hear this i suffered a loss last year and i know how it is, noone know till they go through it. you have been an asset to cbs atlanta i have enjoyed seeing you on the weather in the evening, You not just a pretty face you seem to have a lot inside that could get on the air and hide all that..i hope you get well soon Dagmar Please! whatever it takes, Iwish you all the best on the next job if its with animals that fine they are great…Or if you move back to canada you happiness is the most important thing!! Much love from Northeast Georgia. lots of love
Alan:))
Charles
September 3rd, 2010
6:31 pm
As a 10-year survivor of suicide myself (my brother and best friend), I’m awed by Dagmar’s openness and understand how distance can help. If there is any encouragement I can offer, it’s to keep focused on her health – the pain will subside in time. One of the best suicide survivor centers is the Link Center here in Atlanta. It’s a National Resource Center and the assistance is first rate. She’s in our thoughts and prayers.
Animal Guy
September 3rd, 2010
6:32 pm
Dagmar, I am so sorry for your loss and for anguish its caused you. Although you’ll be missed here, you should go back to Canada and heal. Home towns (countries, in this case) are therapeutic because they are safe and filled with good memories. Sounds like you need more of both.
When you’re ready, please consider lending your talents and compassion to an animal rights group such as PETA, Humane Society of the US (HSUS) or smaller local groups. Shelters, such as Farm Sanctuary, also are in need of your help. They all struggle to get their messages across to the public so they can use someone with your talent and personality to help sell the message.
Atlanta’s loss may end up being a gain for the animals.
But you have to take care of yourself first.
Good luck.
Willie Sue
September 3rd, 2010
6:36 pm
I’m going to miss you. You were a joy and pleasure to watch. May the Lord be with you while you try to find yourself. You are a special lady.
John Sheffield
September 3rd, 2010
6:40 pm
If channel 46 does not do what is right in reguards to Dagmar I will never watch them in the future. All you need to do is watch her for two seconds and realize that she is the real deal. That is a rare thing on a local news show. I am sure that she will heal in time and go on to bigger and better things than the local yokels at 46. The next Diane Sawyer as far as I’m concerned. It looks like the entire State of Georgia is on your side so hang in there Girl.
Lori
September 3rd, 2010
6:40 pm
She’s a beautiful woman with the most soothing voice I’ve ever heard! Good luck in everything you do. The men of Atlanta will surely miss you
I hope you find some sort of peace for your soul, friend.
Time Won't Heal
September 3rd, 2010
6:47 pm
I’ve lost a friend to suicide, another to a suspected suicide, and myself, have come close and will probably succumb one day. There are people who, no matter how much love or support or help they can get, struggle in the depths of darkness. I am one of those people. Very few people know my real story, I’m a good actor. I make other people feel good to detract from my own emptiness. Nothing – success, prosperity, stuff, or other things provide more than a temporary distraction. You distance yourself from those closest to you because you don’t want to burden them with the truth. There’s nothing they can do or say that will really alter the course of events. Losing someone you love is hard, particularly when it comes to suicide. It’s “easier” to digest when it seems like an accident.
CaribouRancher
September 3rd, 2010
7:15 pm
I hope you get to see this outpouring of well-wishes from the viewers. I’m moved by all of this……
Courtney
September 3rd, 2010
7:17 pm
She will be missed.
Betty Gunnin
September 3rd, 2010
7:20 pm
A great weather personality and a fine example of a woman who knows how to dress and has given my 79 year old husband many daydreams of being a young man once again. I am so envious of such a person but feel her pain. I pray all goes well for her future.
Vancouver R1 old neighbour guy
September 3rd, 2010
7:26 pm
So sorry for your loss Dagmar. Good for you to deal with it and not let it eat you up. Remember you still have lots of friends in Vancouver should you decide to come back. Miss your motorcycle column.
Sorry again.
shaunf88
September 3rd, 2010
7:26 pm
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
NOW WHOS GOING TO TELL ME THE WEATHER? MAYBE JENNIFER VALDES
Matt
September 3rd, 2010
7:26 pm
Godspeed, Dagmar! You were a frequent fixture on my television set, as your soothing voice delivering the forecast always made my days better and more complete. I wish you nothing but the best of luck in your future endeavors, but even moreso, that you get true happiness sooner than later! Your outstanding personality will reward you with excellent job opportunities and all the things you could ever ask for!
Shawn Lee Butler
September 3rd, 2010
7:28 pm
We are all so very sad that you have been in such pain. I’ll have to post later. I’m so shocked and saddened that I can’t type. You broughts us such joy each day!…. been years since I cried until now. We Love You Dagmar!
Elizabeth
September 3rd, 2010
7:29 pm
Dagmar, I am so sorry for your loss. In watching CBS 46 as of late, I noted a difference when you were on the air. I sensed a sadness there, but wasn’t sure why. Just know that God will continue to watch over you. It’s so difficult to understand why someone we love is no longer with us. Depression is beyond what we can control, even sometimes with medications and having those loving people around you. Your boyfriend was blessed to have you in his life, and always know that he valued and loved you. His demonstration of bringing you flowers reflected that. Many good wishes to you in finding yourself again, and creating what will make your world more positive for you. My parents and I wish that you would be staying here in Atlanta as we will miss seeing your beautiful smile. May all good things happen for you. Take good care and God bless.
Liz
September 3rd, 2010
7:48 pm
Love Dagmar! Had no idea of the pain she’s going through. I understand that sometimes it’s just time to move on. God Bless Her in whatever her new venture is.
Mojacket
September 3rd, 2010
8:03 pm
Dagmar, we will miss you. I hope that you find inner peace!
Yes
September 3rd, 2010
8:28 pm
That is heartbreaking. Glad to hear she’s taking care of her health and I wish her luck. Thank you also for moderating these comments. That’s nice to hear. Too many times people take the opportunity to be hurtful.
Scott
September 3rd, 2010
8:30 pm
I and my family wish you the best of luck and our sincere prayers that you find what you need to get well and return to happiness. We will miss your smile and your spirit. Take care of yourself and know that you leave behind a city that loves you.
#1DagmarFan
September 3rd, 2010
8:39 pm
Dagmar, I had no idea what you were going through and I am deeply sorry for your loss! I can only imagine how difficult your situation must be for you and I deeply hope that, given time, the sorrow over the terrible tragedy you’ve been through will heal. Atlanta’s loss will definitely be some other city’s gain. Good luck and may God watch over you, whatever the future holds for you!.
Lisa
September 3rd, 2010
8:39 pm
I respect you for knowing what you need to do to take care of yourself during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I am confident that in time, and take all the time you need, you will find the peace you deserve.
Deanna
September 3rd, 2010
8:44 pm
Praying for you Ms. Midcap. I know you can recapture your joy. Wishing you peace.
Target Demographic
September 3rd, 2010
8:47 pm
Best of luck. Luck, though, isn’t what you need. You need time.
john
September 3rd, 2010
8:51 pm
I am very sad to hear about Dagmar’s loss. While it is a simple thing, my family and I looked forward to seeing Dagmar each night. Our thoughts are with Dagmar. She will be successful in whatever the next step in her journey will be.
bufbox
September 3rd, 2010
8:56 pm
Get well Dagmar and best of luck… you brightened the gloomiest of forecasts.
Suzan Rhodes
September 3rd, 2010
9:14 pm
Dear Dagmar,
I belive with time you will
be back on your feet. We live in an age
when employers belive we should be over
the death of a loved one in a week. Life is just not that
way. You take the time you need to heal. I will keep you in my prayers
God keep you
your smile will be missed
suzan Rhodes
Big D
September 3rd, 2010
9:14 pm
I love you Dagmar.
Laura Brown
September 3rd, 2010
9:14 pm
Dagmar, I wish you the best. You have been through a hard time, but there is always a better day ahead. Hugs and prayers for you.
Georgia Green
September 3rd, 2010
9:22 pm
What a heartfeltfully-written article. Thank you for writing it. Thank you, Ms. Midcap, for being courageous in sharing your story. It could not have been easy. Thank you for creating awareness about mental health issues — and giving it “names and faces.” I admire beyond words your bravery. I appreciate the “voice” things such as these should create in our collective consciousness and which you have so eloquently expressed. Namaste.
Rodney Ho Moe
September 3rd, 2010
9:33 pm
Good luck in all future endeavors Dagmar, you will be missed!
Jeff
September 3rd, 2010
9:50 pm
Thank you Rodney for this story… very touching and heartbreaking article, and Dagmar will be missed. I am glad she opened up and gave some information about this… otherwise, viewers and bloggers would be left with questions and probably start some wild, hurtful rumors.
Dagmar was always very genuine and very outgoing… she seemed to embrace her role, which was part weather forecaster, part station PR person. A lot of viewers will miss her smile and outgoing nature on the newscasts.
God bless you Dagmar, and good luck in the future… you will be missed in Atlanta. I hope you find your peace and happiness and a new community to call home. Take care…
Angela
September 3rd, 2010
9:53 pm
Sorry to hear this. Best wishes to Dagmar. I pray that the grace of God will sustain you. May he bless you with wonderful thoughts, sound mind and most of all peace. I wish you God’s speed.
Jeff
September 3rd, 2010
9:55 pm
By the way, I know somebody who ran into Dagmar about a year ago… they said she was as nice and genuine in “real life” as she appeared to be on TV… wish we had more people like her. God bless you Dagmar, and keep your spirits up.
Ken
September 3rd, 2010
9:56 pm
Good luck to Dagmar in finding peace and happiness in her life again. I wish her the best of luck. She always brings a smile to the faces in our home while watching local news that at times, is not so encouraging. Best of luck in the future.
Abby
September 3rd, 2010
10:03 pm
We are very sad to hear of your tragic loss, Dagmar. It sounds like you are doing what your heart and soul need. You have so much to offer the world, and we wish you all the best. You deserve it.
Take care of yourself.
Lochness
September 3rd, 2010
10:08 pm
What a well written article…touching while being very respectful. My deepest sympathies to Dagmar though I have never watched her brodcast. I lost a girlfriend quickly and unexpectedly to cancer. She was just 43. It was less than six weeks from diagnosis to death. Lots of anger goes through you. Getting through the day … tying your shoes… is a struggle. Go to California. Pick fruit. Whatever. It will take a while, probably a long while, to reconcile what has happened.
A verse from an old Cat Stevens’ song comes to mind: “Take your time. Think a lot. Think of everything you’ve got…’cause you’ll still be here tomorrow…but your dreams may not.”
If I could give myself advice three years ago I’d say this: Keep up the exercise, watch out for the alcohol, find something…a hobby…that you can feel passionate about. (For me, it was hang gliding.)
My best wishes.
brian
September 3rd, 2010
10:20 pm
best wishes in your life, for your lifetime, take care of yourself. stay strong, you have tremendous courage.
TVwatcher
September 3rd, 2010
10:23 pm
yea i really liked dagmar. good luck to her and thanks for helping make atlanta weather a little more bearable
mirandalambert2012
September 3rd, 2010
10:25 pm
My heart breaks reading this. Ms. Midcap if you read this your in my prayers. I can’t imagine the heartache you must feel. God bless you and best of luck to you in whatever lays in your future. It was a joy to see you give us the whether each night. As some one else said no one ever made a tornado warning sound so sweet. God bless.
Red
September 3rd, 2010
10:32 pm
This is a sad story and the loss of a love-one is always very hard, and you should never-ever ever blame yourself or dwell on the what if’s but instead focus on the happy memories and stay busy with different activities. Time does heals all wounds, it does, and so does a Fresh Start in a new city. My prayers are with you and Good Luck!
Terry
September 3rd, 2010
10:37 pm
I wish you well Dagmar. I lost a love one back in April. I wanted to leave the city as well. I committed to stay a year. Everyday has been different. Some good days and some bad ones. I don’t know if you are religious or not. Having that group that I can lean on is important. Whether I stay or go, I will always stay connected to a church. Not trying to preach, just suggesting a way to help. Praying and also letting you know I understand.
Glenn Smith aka catlover
September 3rd, 2010
10:42 pm
Dagmar this really blow me away when I read Rodney s article you wore such a big smile I did not ever notice the hurt and pain that you were feeling I had to leave Atlanta back in Oct of 09 when the company I was working for ran out of work and I have missed seeing you do the evening weather ever since and now to read that you are leaving Atlanta and I want be able to see you on the evening new’s when I come back Atlanta is going to bite but I will survive. Dagmar I know this is going to sound crazy but I get very emotional when I lose one of my kitty’s you may already know of this poem but I’m going to write it anyway it is called the Rainbow Bridge it was given to me when I lost one of my cat’s I keep it in a frame on my wall and when I am feeling sad about losing one of my four-legged friend’s I read it and it help’s it doesn’t make the hurt go away but it help’s keep me going the poem is about animal’s but if you believe it can also be for that Special person you so Dearly loved. The website is http://www.Rainbows bridge.com there is also a Molly Hatchet cd titled Warrior’s of the Rainbow Bridge you should get a copy and listen to the title track but (read the inside of the cover first) maybe it will help!! Well that’s enough blabbering Dagmar may God’s love always be with you wherever you go and whatever you do and when you get depressed grab one of your animal’s and give them a hug and a kiss and that should help get you through ! Sincerely a fan from east central Alabama