After nearly a decade of storytelling across the country, CTV Morning Live’s newest co-anchor, Will Aiello, is back where it all began: his hometown of Ottawa. From his early days playing hockey for the Nepean Raiders to anchoring broadcasts in Sudbury and Kitchener, Will’s path has been marked by a deep appreciation for community, connection, and authenticity. Now, alongside his energetic pup Jax, Will is settling into this next chapter—sharing local stories, exploring the city he once left, and finally enjoying weeknight dinners with family. We caught up with him about his journey, his daily cold plunges, and what it really means to come home.
You grew up in Ottawa and have recently returned to co-anchor CTV Morning Live. What’s it like to come back to your hometown in this role?
It feels so special to be able to do what I love in my hometown. The passion I have for telling local stories and being involved in the community is what I crave about my job—and now I get to highlight everything going on in the city that matters most to me.
What are some of your early memories of Ottawa, and how has the city changed since you were last living here?
I still reminisce with some of my oldest friends about playing hockey for the Nepean Raiders as a child. Every practice, game, and mini stick sleepover gave me that feel for friendship that I carry with me. The great thing about being involved in local sports is learning what it means to be part of a team and give back. The streets and buildings may have changed, but the Ottawa vibe has remained.
You were most recently in Kitchener—what did that chapter of your career teach you, and how did it shape your growth as a broadcaster?
The greatest thing I’ve gained over the years of travelling and being in different newsrooms is perspective. You grow through your experiences, and that directly translates on air. Learning and listening to others’ stories gives you something you can’t get unless you live it.
Any favourite stories or standout moments from your time on-air in Kitchener?
We were able to take our CTV News at 5 Kitchener show live from Oktoberfest and that was one of the most fun experiences I’ve had to date. Being dressed in full lederhosen and out in the community with viewers was just awesome!
What does it mean to be back home and close to your parents and family again?
I don’t think I even realized how important it was until I got here. Being able to do quick visits or organize a dinner at our favourite spot is something I wasn’t able to do in the last 7 years. I will forever be grateful to my family for giving me the ability to carve my own path. My parents always did what they could to tune into every broadcast—whether here or afar. There are almost no words to describe how much that meant to me.
What excites you most about being part of the CTV Morning Live team here in Ottawa?
This is everything I’ve been working for over the last decade. Moving to different cities and learning the ropes gave me such a grateful mindset stepping into this chapter. I’ve always wanted to host a morning show, and to do it in my hometown with this team just makes me so excited for each day.
What’s your typical morning routine like before going live on air?
Most people think I’m a little crazy, but as soon as I get up, I let my pup Jax outside and go straight into a cold plunge! It’s the best way to kickstart my day. After that, I do a little gratitude session and prep for the day. Before we go live, I like to energize the room and talk to each crew member—it sets the tone.
How are you spending your first summer back in Ottawa? Any favourite spots or new places you’re checking out?
We have a family cottage at Big Rideau Lake, and now that it’s only an hour away, I’ll be heading there as often as possible. I also want to explore the city and catch up on everything I’ve missed over the past decade. And of course—I’ve got to eat all the shawarma I’ve been missing!
Outside of work, what are some hobbies or passions that keep you grounded?
I’ve always been into health and fitness and got competitively into CrossFit years ago. I’ve coached and trained and love the challenge—it keeps me aiming to be the best version of myself. I also love being by the water or out in nature. That’s always been my reset.
Is there a piece of advice—personal or professional—that’s stuck with you over the years?
Always… be… yourself. Authenticity carries you through life in the most fulfilling way. No matter where you’re at, if you can stick to being you, you’ll be happier on a deeper level.
What are you looking forward to most in this next chapter?
Getting to share meaningful stories in the place I care about most, and getting to do that while being close to family—it’s the best of both worlds.
Fast Facts
What’s a food you’ll never say no to?
I could have steak every single meal, every single day.
If you weren’t in broadcasting, what would your alternate dream job be?
I would have tried to become a professional athlete in hockey or lacrosse… or continued down my path as a musician. Fun fact: I love to play piano.
Are you naturally a morning person?
Over the last 7 years, I’ve become one. I used to hit the gym early and found peace in the mornings—it fits perfectly with this role now.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
Being healthy is a non-negotiable… but I barely eat any vegetables! Only peas and peppers.
Who’s someone—famous or not—you’d love to have coffee with?
My Grandpa and Grandad. They passed away early, but both spent time in Sudbury, where I started my on-air career. One had a connection in this industry—I think they’d be proud of where I am today.
Photography by Sean Sisk
