Emmett Twomey Biography: Age, Height, Wife, Salary & ABC57 Career 2026

Emmett Twomey has built a reputation as a trusted voice in local journalism, delivering breaking news and community stories across northern Indiana and southwestern Michigan. As a lead anchor and reporter for ABC57 (WBND-LD) in South Bend, he brings clarity, empathy, and a deep regional understanding to every broadcast. His steady rise from small-market radio to a flagship evening newscast makes his biography one of persistence and passion for storytelling.

Quick Facts About Emmett Twomey

Early Life & Education

Emmett Twomey was born on August 15, 1985, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to Michael Twomey, a high school history teacher, and Margaret Twomey, a registered nurse. Growing up in a close-knit Midwestern family, Emmett learned early the value of curiosity and hard work. He and his younger sister Megan spent summers volunteering at local community centers and listening to their father’s stories about world events, which planted the seeds for a career in journalism.

He attended Bishop Luers High School, where he excelled in English and debate. His teachers often noted his knack for asking sharp questions and distilling complex ideas into simple language. During his sophomore year, Emmett launched the school’s first student-run news podcast, interviewing faculty and covering sports events. That small step set him on a path he never left.

Emmett chose Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, a powerhouse for aspiring broadcasters. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism with a minor in Political Science in 2007. At Ball State, he anchored student newscasts on WCRD 91.3 FM and served as news director of the campus television station. A summer internship at WANE-TV in Fort Wayne gave him his first taste of a real newsroom, where he logged tapes, transcribed interviews, and occasionally shadowed reporters on field assignments. He graduated with honors and the university’s “Outstanding Student in Broadcast News” award.

Career Journey

Small-Market Beginnings (2007–2011)

After college, Emmett landed his first on-air job as a multimedia journalist at WTWO-TV in Terre Haute, Indiana. There he did it all—shooting, editing, writing, and presenting his own stories. Covering everything from county fairs to deadly tornadoes, he quickly developed a reputation for compassionate storytelling. He earned his first Emmy nomination in 2009 for a feature on a local World War II veteran’s return to Normandy.

Rising in the Midwest (2011–2017)

In 2011, Emmett moved to WLEX-TV in Lexington, Kentucky, as a general assignment reporter. He then advanced to weekend anchor within two years. His investigation into illegal dumping in eastern Kentucky waterways led to a statewide policy change and earned him a regional Edward R. Murrow Award in 2014. He also began hosting a weekly public affairs program, “Commonwealth Insight,” which won praise for its balanced panel discussions.

Joining ABC57 and Recent Activity in 2026

Emmett returned to northern Indiana in 2017, accepting an anchor/reporter role at ABC57 (WBND-LD) in South Bend. He co-anchors the station’s flagship 5, 6, and 11 p.m. newscasts. Since his arrival, the evening news ratings have grown by 22%, thanks in part to his personable delivery and relentless pursuit of local accountability stories.

In 2026, Emmett led the station’s coverage of the Michigan City port expansion debates and a high-profile trial involving public corruption in St. Joseph County. He also launched a digital series, “Your Truth, Our Team,” where he sits down with viewers to discuss their concerns about media bias and misinformation. The series has been highlighted by the Indiana Broadcasters Association for its innovative approach to community engagement.

Career Highlights & Notable Stories

• 2026: Anchor for ABC57’s Emmy-nominated special “Rebuilding the Bend: Five Years After the Pandemic”
• 2025: Moderated the South Bend mayoral debate watched by 180,000 households
• 2023: Received first-place Indiana Associated Press Award for Best Breaking News Coverage
• 2019: Interviewed Pete Buttigieg during his presidential campaign, a segment that aired nationally
• 2014: Regional Edward R. Murrow Award for investigative reporting on illegal dumping
• 2009: First Emmy nomination for feature reporting

Personal Life

Emmett married Sarah Mitchell, a graphic designer he met during his Lexington years, on September 22, 2012. The couple welcomed son Liam in 2015 and daughter Ella in 2019. The Twomeys live in a historic bungalow in the River Park neighborhood of South Bend, where they enjoy restoring vintage furniture and tending a vegetable garden.

Family is central to Emmett’s life. He coaches Liam’s soccer team in the South Bend Area Youth Soccer League and rarely misses Ella’s dance recitals. Despite his public profile, he guards his family’s privacy and rarely shares images of his children on social media. The Twomeys are active members of St. Joseph Catholic Church.

Relationships & Dating History

Emmett’s personal life has always stayed out of the tabloid cycle. Before marrying Sarah, he had a brief relationship during college that ended amicably before graduation. He is not known to have been linked to anyone else publicly. His strong marriage and focus on family remain a constant theme in interviews.

Awards & Achievements

• Indiana Associated Press Award – First Place, Best Breaking News Coverage (2023, 2024)
• Indiana Broadcasters Association Spectrum Award – Best Evening Newscast (2022, 2025)
• Regional Edward R. Murrow Award – Investigative Reporting (2014)
• Emmy Nomination – Feature News (2009)
• Ball State University Alumni Award – Outstanding Young Journalist (2015)
• South Bend Community Leadership Award – Media Impact (2024)

Physical Statistics

Emmett Twomey maintains a healthy, approachable on-camera presence. He stands 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall and weighs around 170 pounds (77 kg). He has an athletic build from running and regular gym sessions. At 41 years old (as of August 2026), his dark brown hair shows a hint of distinguished gray at the temples. His hazel eyes are often complemented by the station’s signature navy blazers. In 2026, viewers have noticed his slightly longer haircut, a subtle shift from the traditional anchor cut he sported for years.

Quotes

“Local news isn’t just about reporting—it’s about building trust one conversation, one story at a time. That’s what gets me up at 3 a.m.”

– Emmett Twomey, Indiana Broadcasters Association interview, 2025

“When I interviewed Secretary Buttigieg, I realized our community’s stories can resonate anywhere. That’s the power of listening.”

– Emmett Twomey, Ball State alumni magazine, 2019

“My dad taught me that every person has a story. My job is to honor it. The day I forget that, I should hand in my press pass.”

– Emmett Twomey, “Your Truth, Our Team” digital series, 2026

Controversies

Emmett Twomey has largely avoided public controversy throughout his career. In 2021, a viewer complaint to ABC57 accused him of bias during a township trustee election story. The station reviewed the segment and found no ethical breach. Emmett addressed the matter on air, explaining the editorial process and inviting the viewer to a sit-down conversation. The gesture diffused tension and later became a case study in transparency for the station’s internal training program.

As of 2026, no legal or professional disciplinary actions exist against him. His focus on factual, measured reporting has kept his reputation solid.

Favorites

• Favorite book: “The Elements of Journalism” by Bill Kovach & Tom Rosenstiel
• Favorite movie: “All the President’s Men” (1976)
• Favorite local spot: Howard Park and the East Race Waterway in South Bend
• Favorite sports team: Chicago Cubs (MLB) – lifelong fan
• Favorite musician: John Prine – often spins “Sam Stone” vinyl at home
• Favorite quote: “The truth is rarely pure and never simple.” – Oscar Wilde

Salary & Net Worth in 2026

Emmett Twomey’s annual salary as a lead anchor at ABC57 falls within the $85,000–$110,000 range, based on station market size (South Bend-Elkhart is DMA #98) and comparable contracts reported by industry sources like the Radio Television Digital News Association. With his tenure and additional roles in digital production, his 2026 compensation is estimated at $100,000 per year.

His net worth stands at an estimated $1.2 million in 2026. This includes equity in his South Bend home (valued around $290,000), a diversified retirement portfolio built over 19 years, savings from his wife’s design business, and modest income from speaking engagements at schools and journalism workshops. Emmett lives comfortably but not extravagantly, often crediting his Midwestern upbringing for keeping his spending in check.

Interesting Facts About Emmett Twomey

• He records himself reading bedtime stories for his kids when he works the late shift, so they can listen before sleep.
• Emmett owns over 500 vinyl records, with a particular love for 1970s folk and rock.
• He once reported live from the top of the University of Notre Dame’s Golden Dome for a special segment.
• During the 2020 pandemic lockdown, he taught himself to bake sourdough bread and still makes weekly loaves.
• He is an advocate for mental health in newsrooms and mentors younger journalists through the Indiana Pro Society of Professional Journalists.
• Emmett ran the 2024 Chicago Marathon in 3 hours 52 minutes, raising $7,500 for the South Bend Center for the Homeless.

Did You Know Already?

• Emmett’s first on-air crash was an accidental curse word during a live weather cutaway in 2008—he immediately apologized and the station received zero complaints.
• He and his wife Sarah met when she was art directing a charity gala that he emceed in Lexington.
• His father’s collection of old newspapers from major 20th-century events sparked his love of journalism.
• He turned down a morning show offer in a top-20 market to stay in South Bend, citing his family’s happiness and his belief in local news.

Social Media Links

Follow Emmett Twomey for behind-the-scenes updates and community stories:

• Twitter/X: @EmmettABC57
• Instagram: @emmetttwomey_news
• Facebook: Emmett Twomey ABC57
• LinkedIn: Emmett Twomey

Frequently Asked Questions

How long has Emmett Twomey been at ABC57?

Emmett joined ABC57 in 2017, so as of 2026, he has been with the station for nine years, anchoring evening newscasts and leading investigative projects.

What is Emmett Twomey’s age?

Emmett Twomey was born on August 15, 1985, making him 41 years old in 2026. He often jokes that deadlines have kept him young, but his experience keeps him calm.

Is Emmett Twomey married?

Yes, Emmett has been married to Sarah Twomey since September 2012. The couple has two children, Liam and Ella.

What is Emmett Twomey’s salary?

Emmett Twomey’s salary at ABC57 is estimated between $85,000 and $110,000 per year, with additional income from speaking engagements, placing him comfortably among top regional anchors.

Does Emmett Twomey have any controversies?

Emmett has maintained a clean professional record. A viewer bias complaint in 2021 was resolved transparently, and no further issues have arisen. He is widely respected for his ethical conduct.

What are Emmett Twomey’s hobbies outside of news?

He enjoys running marathons, collecting vinyl records, coaching his son’s soccer team, and baking sourdough bread. He also mentors aspiring journalists across Indiana.

Conclusion

Emmett Twomey’s journey from a student podcaster in Fort Wayne to a trusted anchor in South Bend reflects the steady power of local journalism. In 2026, his combination of dogged reporting, family values, and community focus continues to resonate with viewers. Whether covering a breaking storm or moderating a heated political debate, Emmett brings the same authenticity that built his career. If this Emmett Twomey biography gave you fresh insights, please share it with friends or on social media—and keep tuning in to ABC57 for the stories that matter most.