For more than three decades, Tony McEwing has been a pillar of journalism, especially for those waking up to the news in Los Angeles. As the co-anchor of FOX 11’s “Good Day LA”, McEwing has gained a reputation for being both relatable and authoritative, connecting with millions of viewers daily. But beyond the anchor desk, McEwing’s life and career tell an inspiring story of hard work, resilience, and dedication.
In this article, we delve deep into Tony McEwing’s bio, wiki, FOX 11 career, age, education, height, family, wife, children, and personal interests, offering a comprehensive look at the man behind the news.
From Small-Town Roots to Big-City Lights
Tony McEwing was born on June 7, 1957, in East St. Louis, Illinois—a town rich in culture but often marred by economic challenges. Growing up in a close-knit family with parents who were both educators, McEwing developed an early appreciation for learning and discipline.
Biography of Tony McEwing: Table Format
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tony McEwing |
| Date of Birth | June 7, 1957 |
| Place of Birth | East St. Louis, Illinois, USA |
| Age (as of 2024) | 67 years |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Journalist, News Anchor |
| Current Role | Co-Anchor of “Good Day LA” on FOX 11 |
| Years Active | 1981–Present |
| Education | – Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign- Master’s Degree in Journalism, Northwestern University |
| Key Mentors | Professor John Lavine, Medill School of Journalism |
| Early Career | – General Assignment Reporter, WBAY-TV (1981-1984)- Weekend Anchor/Reporter, KTVI-TV (1984-1986)- Reporter/Fill-In Anchor, KXTV-TV (1986-1993) |
| FOX 11 Milestones | – Joined FOX 11 as a reporter (1993)- Weekend Anchor (1995)- Co-Anchor of “Good Day LA” (2001) |
| Major Coverage | – O.J. Simpson Trial- 9/11 Attacks- 2008 Financial Crisis- COVID-19 Pandemic |
| Awards and Honors | – 5 Emmy Awards- 3 Golden Mike Awards- Silver Circle Induction (2018) |
| Philanthropy | Active in community service and supports journalism scholarships |
| Hobbies and Interests | Reading, exploring Los Angeles’ culinary scene, and community involvement |
| Marital Status | Private |
| Physical Attributes | Height: 6’2” (Approx.) |
| Social Media | Engages with followers on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn |
| Notable Traits | Known for professionalism, warmth, and ability to connect with viewers |
| Net Worth (2024) | Estimated at $2–$4 million |
Early Influences
- Parents: His mother and father instilled in him a deep respect for education and hard work.
- Childhood Interests: McEwing had a keen interest in current events and public speaking, often participating in debates and watching televised news with fascination.
- Part-Time Radio Work: During high school, Tony landed a job at a local radio station, sparking his interest in broadcasting.
This humble yet nurturing environment laid the foundation for McEwing’s future success.
Education: Laying the Groundwork for Excellence
McEwing’s educational background is impressive, marked by achievements that reflect his commitment to academic excellence.
Academic Journey
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Degree: Bachelor’s in Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Graduation: 1979, with honors
- Northwestern University
- Degree: Master’s in Journalism
- Graduation: 1981
At Northwestern’s Medill School of Journalism, McEwing sharpened his skills under rigorous training, which prepared him for the challenges of modern journalism.
Academic Achievements
- Dean’s List: Multiple semesters
- Harrington Award: For excellence in journalism
- Internship: At the prestigious Chicago Tribune
Breaking into Broadcasting
Fresh out of Northwestern, Tony McEwing wasted no time launching his career. His early years in journalism were spent mastering the fundamentals of reporting and gaining valuable field experience.
Early Career Highlights
- WBAY-TV (1981–1984): General assignment reporter in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
- KTVI-TV (1984–1986): Weekend anchor in St. Louis.
- KXTV-TV (1986–1993): Reporter and fill-in anchor in Sacramento.
Defining Moments
One of McEwing’s most notable early assignments was covering the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake in California. His calm and precise reporting during this crisis earned him respect and set him apart as a journalist capable of handling high-pressure situations.
The FOX 11 Years: A Career of Excellence
In 1993, Tony McEwing joined KTTV FOX 11 in Los Angeles—a move that would solidify his status as a broadcasting icon.
Key Milestones at FOX 11
- 1993: Hired as a general assignment reporter.
- 1995: Promoted to weekend anchor.
- 2001: Became co-anchor of “Good Day LA.”
- 2023: Celebrated 30 years with FOX 11.
Notable Coverage
- The O.J. Simpson Trial (1994–1995): McEwing’s balanced reporting during this highly publicized trial earned national attention.
- 9/11 Attacks (2001): Provided compassionate and clear coverage during the tragedy.
- COVID-19 Pandemic: Played a vital role in delivering accurate and timely information.
Awards and Honors
- 5 Emmy Awards: For outstanding news reporting.
- 3 Golden Mike Awards: From the Radio & Television News Association.
- Silver Circle Induction (2018): Recognizing over 25 years of excellence in television journalism.
Beyond the Newsroom: Tony’s Personal Life
Tony McEwing has always maintained a balance between his professional and personal life, although he keeps his private affairs relatively low-profile.
Family and Relationships
- Family Values: McEwing credits his parents for instilling integrity and perseverance.
- Romantic Life: While private about his relationships, McEwing has hinted at the importance of maintaining personal connections despite a demanding career.
Work-Life Balance
As a morning anchor, McEwing starts his day at 2:30 AM, a schedule that requires discipline but also leaves room for personal pursuits like reading, dining, and community involvement.
The Man Behind the Mic: Personality and Passions
Tony McEwing is much more than a journalist; he’s a dynamic individual with diverse interests and a commitment to giving back.
Hobbies and Interests
- Reading: A voracious reader with a preference for history and biographies.
- Culinary Enthusiast: Loves exploring the vibrant food scene in Los Angeles.
- Travel: Enjoys visiting new destinations to broaden his perspectives.
Philanthropy
McEwing is an advocate for education and frequently participates in initiatives aimed at empowering underserved communities.
Physical Attributes and Style
While Tony McEwing’s stature is not often discussed, he commands a presence with his polished appearance and warm demeanor. Known for his sharp suits and approachable style, McEwing is an embodiment of professionalism.
Show Me the Money: Career Earnings and Net Worth
Over his decades-long career, Tony McEwing has built a successful financial portfolio.
Career Earnings
- FOX 11 Salary: Estimated at $200,000–$300,000 annually.
- Other Income: Includes speaking engagements, endorsements, and investments.
Estimated Net Worth
McEwing’s net worth is estimated at $2–$3 million, reflecting his dedication to his craft and financial acumen.
McEwing in the Digital Age
Tony McEwing has embraced social media to connect with viewers beyond the newsroom.
Social Media Presence
- Twitter: Frequently shares updates and interacts with followers.
- Facebook: Posts behind-the-scenes content and community stories.
- Instagram: Highlights his personal interests and professional milestones.
The Legacy of Tony McEwing
Tony McEwing’s influence extends far beyond the confines of FOX 11. His integrity, professionalism, and ability to connect with audiences have made him a role model for aspiring journalists.
Case Study: The McEwing Effect
Tony’s consistent delivery and approachable style have contributed to FOX 11’s enduring popularity, particularly with morning news audiences.
What’s Next for Tony?
As Tony McEwing approaches his late 60s, speculation about his next steps naturally arises. Whether he chooses to continue anchoring, explore new media ventures, or focus on philanthropy, one thing is certain: his impact on journalism will endure.
FAQs
What is Tony McEwing’s age?
Tony McEwing was born on June 7, 1957, making him 67 years old in 2024.
Where did Tony McEwing go to school?
McEwing attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign for his undergraduate degree and Northwestern University for his master’s in journalism.
What is Tony McEwing’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated at $2–$3 million.
Is Tony McEwing married?
McEwing keeps his personal life private, and details about his marital status are not publicly disclosed.
Why is Tony McEwing leaving Good Day LA?
There is no official reason given for Tony McEwing’s departure from Good Day LA, but he announced his exit after a long and successful career.
Is Tony still on Good Day LA?
No, Tony McEwing retired from Good Day LA after over 30 years with the show.
Did Tony McEwing retire?
Yes, Tony McEwing retired after a long and respected career in journalism, including his role at Good Day LA.
Why is Michaela leaving Good Day LA?
Michaela Pereira left Good Day LA to pursue new opportunities, including her role at CNN+.
What day is Tony Day?
“Tony Day” refers to a special celebration of Tony McEwing’s career at FOX 11, marking his accomplishments.
Who is Tony on Good Morning America married to?
There are no public records or confirmed details about Tony McEwing’s marriage.
Is Tony still on ABC?
No, Tony McEwing was a long-time anchor at FOX 11, not ABC.
When did Tony Nicely retire?
Tony Nicely, the former CEO of GEICO, retired in 2020.
Why did Tony Twist retire?
Tony Twist, former hockey player, retired after an injury during his career in the NHL.
What year did Tony Perez retire?
Tony Perez, former baseball player, retired in 1986 after an illustrious career.
Does Michaela get married?
Michaela Pereira has not publicly shared details about her marital status.
What happened to Michaela Pereira on Channel 11 news?
Michaela Pereira left Channel 11 to join CNN+ but later transitioned to other projects after the platform shut down.
What happened to Jennifer Lahmers on Extra?
Jennifer Lahmers left Extra to pursue new opportunities and returned to her career in local news.
Does Tony ever date his therapist?
There are no credible reports or sources suggesting Tony McEwing ever dated his therapist.
What happened to Stu from Good Day LA?
Stu Mundel, a reporter for Good Day LA, is still actively contributing to the show, focusing on live coverage of breaking news.
What happened to Rick on Good Day LA?
Rick Dickert remains a reporter and meteorologist on Good Day LA, providing weather reports and live coverage.
Conclusion: Tony McEwing’s Enduring Influence
From his early days in East St. Louis to becoming one of FOX 11’s most trusted voices, Tony McEwing has carved out a legacy defined by excellence, integrity, and connection. Whether delivering breaking news or engaging with the community, McEwing continues to inspire audiences and set the standard for broadcast journalism. His story is a testament to the power of dedication and the enduring impact of quality journalism.
