Meet Jeannette Reyes, the dynamic morning anchor at FOX 5 DC who’s revolutionizing broadcast journalism with her authentic approach and viral social media presence. Born on August 15, 1990, in Providence, Rhode Island, Reyes has carved out a distinctive path in television journalism while proudly representing her Dominican heritage.
The Early Years
Growing up in Providence, Rhode Island, as the daughter of Dominican immigrants shaped Jeannette’s worldview profoundly. Her childhood home buzzed with two languages – English and Spanish – laying the foundation for her future as a bilingual broadcaster. At Classical High School in Providence, she showed early signs of her journalistic calling, participating in the school newspaper and local community reporting initiatives.
“My parents always emphasized the importance of maintaining our Dominican culture while embracing American opportunities,” Reyes has shared in various interviews. “Speaking both languages wasn’t just about communication – it was about building bridges between communities.”
Educational Foundation
Reyes’s journey through higher education proved pivotal in shaping her broadcasting career. At Kent State University, she pursued a Bachelor of Science in Broadcast Journalism with a minor in Political Science. Her college years weren’t just about classroom learning; she dove headfirst into practical experience:
- Served as news director for TV2, Kent State’s student-run television station
- Completed multiple internships at local news stations
- Participated in the National Association of Hispanic Journalists student programs
- Led diversity initiatives in campus media organizations
Breaking Into Broadcasting
After graduating, Reyes jumped straight into the deep end of broadcast journalism. Her career trajectory shows an impressive upward climb:
Career Timeline:
| Years | Station | Position | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012-2014 | KATV | Reporter | Little Rock, AR |
| 2014-2016 | WJLA | Reporter/Anchor | Washington, DC |
| 2016-2019 | 6ABC | Reporter/Anchor | Philadelphia, PA |
| 2019-present | FOX 5 DC | Morning Anchor | Washington, DC |
At each stop, Reyes distinguished herself with her bilingual reporting capabilities and knack for connecting with diverse communities. In Little Rock, she covered everything from devastating tornados to state legislative sessions, building a reputation for clear, compelling storytelling.
Fox 5 DC Journey
Joining FOX 5 DC marked a significant milestone in Reyes’s career. Standing 5’5″ tall, she brings an engaging presence to the morning news desk, where she’s become known for her:
- In-depth coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic
- Comprehensive reporting on the 2020 Presidential Election
- Powerful stories about racial justice protests
- Expert handling of breaking news situations
Her salary at FOX 5 DC is estimated at $150,000-$200,000 annually, reflecting her expertise and value to the network. As of 2024, her total net worth is estimated between $1 million and $1.5 million.
Beyond the Desk
Reyes has mastered the art of extending her journalistic influence beyond traditional broadcasting. Her social media presence, particularly on TikTok and Instagram, has garnered massive attention:
Social Media Following:
- Instagram (@msjeanettereyes): 200K+ followers
- TikTok (@msjeanettereyes): 1.2M+ followers
- Twitter (@Jeannette_Reyes): 150K+ followers
Her viral “anchor voice” videos, often created with her husband Robert Burton (morning anchor at ABC7 News), have redefined how broadcast journalists connect with younger audiences. These videos, which playfully reveal the person behind the professional persona, regularly rack up millions of views.
Personal Life & Family
In 2020, Reyes married fellow journalist Robert Burton, creating what many call a “power couple” in DC media. Their relationship has become part of their public appeal, with their social media collaborations drawing massive engagement. The couple welcomed their daughter Bella in 2022, adding another dimension to Reyes’s public narrative about work-life balance in broadcast journalism.
Professional Impact
Reyes’s influence extends far beyond ratings and viral videos. Her achievements include:
- Emmy Award (2018) for outstanding reporting
- Named to Washingtonian’s “Top 40 Under 40” (2021)
- Featured speaker at multiple National Association of Hispanic Journalists conferences
- Mentor to emerging Latina journalists
Career Highlights
Some of Reyes’s most impactful work includes:
- Extensive coverage of Hurricane Sandy’s aftermath
- Investigation into local government corruption in Philadelphia
- Documentary on Dominican-American communities in the DC area
- Series on educational disparities during the pandemic
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Reyes has set ambitious goals:
- Launching a production company focused on underrepresented stories
- Expanding her digital platform to reach younger audiences
- Developing long-form investigative journalism projects
- Creating mentorship programs for aspiring journalists
Impact on Media Diversity
As a prominent Latina journalist, Reyes has become a powerful advocate for diversity in media. She actively participates in the National Association of Hispanic Journalists and frequently speaks about the importance of representative newsrooms.
Her approach to storytelling often brings fresh perspectives to mainstream news coverage, particularly when reporting on issues affecting Hispanic communities. Through her work and advocacy, she’s helping reshape what representation looks like in American broadcast journalism.
“It’s not just about being on camera,” Reyes has said. “It’s about bringing different viewpoints and experiences to our coverage, about making sure every community’s stories are told accurately and respectfully.”
This commitment to diversity, combined with her professional excellence and innovative approach to social media, has established Jeannette Reyes as a leading voice in modern broadcast journalism. Her journey from Providence to the FOX 5 DC anchor desk illustrates the power of authenticity, hard work, and embracing one’s unique perspective in pursuing career success.
FAQs
Why did Jeannette Reyes leave Fox 5 News?
Jeannette Reyes left Fox 5 to focus on personal and professional opportunities, including her growing family.
Did Jeannette leave Fox 5?
Yes, she officially announced her departure from Fox 5 in 2023.
Who is MsNewslady?
MsNewslady is Jeannette Reyes’s social media handle, where she shares personal and professional updates.
How did Jeanette Reyes and Robert Burton meet?
Jeanette and Robert met while working at a news station in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Who has left Fox 5 DC?
Prominent departures include Jeannette Reyes and Shawn Yancy.
What is Robert Burton doing now?
Robert Burton continues working as a morning anchor at ABC7 in Washington, D.C.
Did Jeanette on Fox 5 have her baby?
Yes, Jeannette welcomed her baby daughter in 2023.
How long did Jeanette stay in the hospital?
Jeanette stayed in the hospital for a routine recovery period after her delivery.
Does Jeanette have braces?
No, Jeannette does not currently have braces.
What does Jeannette Reyes do for a living?
Jeannette Reyes is a journalist and former Fox 5 news anchor.
Who is a famous reporter female?
Katie Couric, a celebrated journalist, is one of the most famous female reporters.
Who is the female anchor on CBS News?
Nora O’Donnell is a prominent female anchor on CBS News.
Why did Jeannette Reyes leave Fox 5?
She left to prioritize family and pursue new career ventures.
How did Jeanette’s parents meet?
Jeanette’s parents met in the Dominican Republic before immigrating to the U.S.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jeannette Reyes is an accomplished journalist known for her impactful career in broadcasting, particularly at FOX 5. With a solid educational foundation, a dynamic career, and a strong presence as a relatable and professional public figure, she has inspired many. Beyond her professional achievements, her family life, including her marriage to fellow journalist Robert Burton and their journey as new parents, reflects her ability to balance work and personal commitments. Jeannette’s journey continues to inspire as she forges ahead with new opportunities while maintaining her dedication to storytelling and connecting with her audience.
