Shae Hopkins Obituary: KET CEO Dies at 69 After Four Decades of Service to Kentucky

Shae Hopkins, the longtime executive director and chief executive officer of Kentucky Educational Television (KET), has died at the age of 69. Her passing on October 29, 2026, was announced by KET, prompting tributes from colleagues and members of the public broadcasting community who remembered her as an influential leader and dedicated advocate for Kentucky.

Shae Hopkins Remembered for Her Leadership at KET

Hopkins devoted approximately 40 years to KET, rising through several management positions before leading the statewide public media network for more than 17 years. During her tenure, the organisation expanded its local productions, educational resources and public affairs programming.

Among the developments associated with her leadership were the Kentucky Channel, the Kentucky Edition current affairs programme and productions that brought stories about Kentucky to wider audiences. KET reported that more than two million people used its programmes and services each week.

Her contribution also received recognition beyond Kentucky. In 2025, PBS presented Hopkins with the Dan Miller Station Leadership Award in recognition of her longstanding service and leadership in public media.

Shae Hopkins Cause of Death

KET confirmed that Hopkins died on October 29 but did not disclose a cause of death in its initial announcement. However, WKYT reported that she had experienced a brief but courageous battle with cancer, citing KET Chief of Staff Tonya Crum.

Hopkins had announced plans to retire at the end of 2026, bringing her long career with the network to a close.

Family and Funeral Arrangements

KET’s announcement said Hopkins was survived by her mother, Carolyn Pennebaker Hopkins; siblings Josh Hopkins and Tara Hopkins West; three children; five grandchildren; and longtime companion Bud McSpadden. Funeral arrangements were pending at the time of the announcement.

Her death represents a significant loss for KET and the wider public broadcasting community. The tributes to Hopkins reflect a career defined by service, institutional leadership and a commitment to connecting people across Kentucky.

Obituary: Shae Hopkins, longtime KET executive director and CEO, died October 29, 2026, aged 69.

Cause of Death: A brief battle with cancer was reported by WKYT, citing KET’s chief of staff.

Funeral Arrangements: Pending in KET’s initial announcement.