A fixture of Alabama television has a new place to hang his hat. On Feb. 9, longtime broadcaster Fred Hunter joined “Simply Southern TV” as a recurring reporter. 

After 25 years hosting “Absolutely Alabama With Fred Hunter,” he said he looks forward to getting back on the road.

“I feel like what we do is important — for the people who are watching and the people whose stories we tell,” Hunter said. “There are so many stories. We’ve got to get busy and not stop what we’re doing.”

An Alabama native, Hunter’s somewhat-nomadic background means Alexander City, Attalla, Clayton, Fort Payne, Fyffe, Jasper, Opp and Tuscaloosa have all been his hometown.

“I’ve grown up with the people of this state, and I think we need to continue telling stories of Alabama,” he said. “It’s a calling. Some people might say that a calling is something else, but for me, it truly is a calling to share the people, places and things that are unique to this state we call home.”

Alabama Farmers Federation Communications Department Director Jeff Helms, who also serves as executive producer of “Simply Southern TV,” said Hunter’s goals match perfectly with those of the show. 

“Fred Hunter joining ‘Simply Southern TV’ feels like a family reunion,” Helms said. “For nearly three decades, Fred has shared our mission — telling the stories of people who make Alabama great. He knows how to bring an audience into a story to introduce characters who are the heart and soul of our communities. We are excited to have Fred on the team.”

Hunter also recently created FredHuntersAlabama.com, a website with blogs and podcasts about Alabama gems and personalities. He and wife Ivy have been married 45 years. They have four daughters, eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

A production of the Federation, “Simply Southern TV” is a weekly 30-minute show that explores Alabama’s barnyards and backroads. Learn more at SimplySouthernTV.net.