Don Polec, a familiar face to Philadelphia viewers, is best known for his quirky and engaging features on Action News. He joined the 6abc team in November 1982, after a stint at Eyewitness News, and remained there for 27 years, retiring in April 2009.
During his time at Action News, Polec became a beloved figure, showcasing unusual places and people in the Philadelphia area. His segments were known for their humor and lightheartedness, making him a popular personality.
Beyond his on-screen persona, Polec faced personal health challenges. He battled polycystic kidney disease (PKD) for many years. He received a kidney transplant, a life-changing gift.
Don Polec’s contributions to Action News left a lasting impact on viewers, remembered for his unique style and positive spirit.
Since retiring from Action News, Polec has remained active in video content creation, exploring opportunities in both television and the web. He has also jokingly offered his expertise on Higgs Boson research, showcasing his continued sense of humor.
His legacy at 6abc extends beyond his on-air appearances. He is remembered by colleagues as a dedicated and supportive member of the Action News team. His ability to find the extraordinary in the ordinary made him a unique and valuable asset to the station.
While Don Polec is no longer a daily fixture on Philadelphia televisions, his impact on local news and the memories he created for viewers continue to resonate. He remains a recognizable and fondly remembered figure in the city’s media landscape.
It’s worth noting that there seems to be a confusion with another individual named Don Pollock, a filmmaker and mentor who passed away in March 2025. While both Dons contributed significantly to their respective fields, they are distinct individuals.
Looking back, Don Polec’s career at Action News represents a specific era of local television journalism – one where personality and a genuine connection with the community were paramount. His segments weren’t just reports; they were conversations, often punctuated by his signature chuckle and an undeniable sense of curiosity.
The impact of his features extended beyond mere entertainment. He highlighted local businesses, artists, and community initiatives that might otherwise have gone unnoticed. He gave a voice to the quirky and the unconventional, celebrating the diversity and unique character of the Philadelphia region.
While he may be remembered for his lighthearted approach, Don Polec also demonstrated resilience and grace in the face of his health challenges. His openness about his battle with PKD helped raise awareness about the disease and inspired others facing similar struggles.
Even now, years after his retirement, Don Polec’s name often comes up in conversations about Philadelphia’s media history. He’s a reminder of a time when local news felt more personal, more connected, and more focused on the stories that mattered to the people living in the community. He remains a testament to the power of personality and the importance of finding joy in the everyday.
For those interested in revisiting some of Don Polec’s classic Action News segments, some clips can occasionally be found online. These short glimpses offer a nostalgic look back at a beloved figure and a reminder of the unique brand of journalism he brought to Philadelphia for nearly three decades.
