Bill Kurtis Biography: Age, Height, Wife, Career, NPR Salary & Net Worth (2025 Update)
Bill Kurtis is a legendary American television journalist, producer, and narrator renowned for his authoritative voice and decades-long career in broadcasting. Best known for his work with CBS News and his distinctive narration on NPR’s “Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me!”, Kurtis has become an iconic figure in American media and documentary storytelling. His impactful reporting, award-winning documentaries, and contributions to public radio have left an indelible mark on journalism and popular culture.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | William Horton Kurtis |
| Profession / Occupation | Journalist, Television Producer, Narrator, Radio Host |
| Birth Date | September 21, 1940 |
| Age | 84 (as of 2025) |
| Birth Place | Pensacola, Florida, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Famous For | Investigative Journalism, TV Narration, NPR Hosting |
| Known For | CBS News, “Cold Case Files”, “Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me!” |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Zodiac Sign | Virgo |
| Height & Weight | 6 ft 3 in (190 cm), approx. 185 lbs (84 kg) |
| Hair Color | Gray |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Education | University of Kansas (B.S.), Washburn University School of Law (J.D.) |
| Religion | Christian |
| Marital Status/Spouse | Married to Donna La Pietra |
| Relationship | N/A |
| Children | Mary Kristen Kurtis (deceased), Scott Kurtis |
| Relatives | Jean Schodorf (sister) |
| Hobbies | Ranching, Conservation, Reading |
| Employer/Organization | NPR, CBS, Kurtis Productions |
| Years Active | 1966–present |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $15 million (2025) |
Early Life & Education
Bill Kurtis was born on September 21, 1940, in Pensacola, Florida, while his father served as a U.S. Navy officer. Raised primarily in Independence, Kansas, Kurtis developed a keen interest in storytelling and science from a young age. He attended the University of Kansas, earning a Bachelor of Science in Journalism. Later, he pursued a Juris Doctor degree at Washburn University School of Law, but ultimately chose a path in broadcasting over practicing law. His early exposure to radio and reporting laid the foundation for his distinguished career.
Career Journey
Bill Kurtis’s career spans more than five decades, marked by groundbreaking journalism, documentary production, and his signature narration style.
Broadcast Beginnings
- Started as a news anchor at WIBW-TV in Topeka, Kansas (1966).
- Rose to national prominence for his live coverage of the 1966 Topeka tornado.
- Joined CBS News in 1967, reporting on major national events.
Milestones & Major Achievements
- Anchored “CBS Morning News” and served as a correspondent for “CBS Evening News”.
- Covered historic events, including the Watergate scandal, Vietnam War, and major criminal trials.
- Founded Kurtis Productions, creating acclaimed documentaries and true crime series.
- Narrated hit shows such as “Cold Case Files”, “American Justice”, and “Investigative Reports”.
- Joined NPR as the announcer and judge for the popular news quiz show “Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me!”.
Recent Activity & Current Roles
- Continues to narrate and produce documentaries through Kurtis Productions.
- Active as the announcer on NPR’s “Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me!”.
- Engages in conservation efforts and ranching at his Tallgrass Prairie preserve in Kansas.
Career Highlights
- Over 45 years in national media and broadcasting.
- Recipient of numerous journalism and broadcasting awards.
- Recognized for his deep, authoritative narration voice.
Personal Life
Marriage & Family: Bill Kurtis was first married to Helen Kurtis, who tragically passed away in 1977. He later married Donna La Pietra, a television producer and his longtime partner. Kurtis has two children: Mary Kristen Kurtis, who passed away in childhood, and Scott Kurtis. He is also the brother of Jean Schodorf, a former Kansas state senator.
Hobbies & Interests: Outside of broadcasting, Kurtis is passionate about ranching, conservation, and reading. He owns and manages the Red Buffalo Ranch in Kansas, advocating for prairie preservation and sustainable agriculture. He is also active in community service and environmental initiatives.
Awards & Achievements
- Peabody Award
- Emmy Awards (multiple)
- Illinois Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame Inductee
- National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Lifetime Achievement Award
- American Bar Association Silver Gavel Award
- Kansas Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame
Physical Statistics
- Height: 6 ft 3 in (190 cm)
- Weight: Approximately 185 lbs (84 kg)
- Hair Color: Gray
- Eye Color: Blue
- Build: Tall and athletic
Quotes
“The most powerful tool we have is the truth, and telling it well makes all the difference.”
“A good story can change the world, one listener at a time.”
“Curiosity is the heart of journalism.”
Controversies
Throughout his lengthy career, Bill Kurtis has maintained a reputation for integrity and professionalism. He has largely avoided major controversies, with only minor debates occasionally arising regarding the dramatization of true crime documentaries. These discussions have focused on the balance between factual reporting and narrative storytelling, but Kurtis has consistently defended his commitment to accuracy and ethical journalism.
Favorites
- Favorite Book: “The Grapes of Wrath” by John Steinbeck
- Favorite TV Show: “60 Minutes”
- Favorite Food: Kansas-style barbecue
- Favorite Hobby: Ranching and prairie conservation
- Favorite Quote: “The truth will set you free.”
Salary & Net Worth
Bill Kurtis has accumulated significant wealth through his extensive media career, production company, and public speaking. As of 2025, his estimated net worth is $15 million. His annual salary from NPR is estimated to be in the range of $100,000–$200,000, while additional income comes from voiceover work, documentary production, and book royalties. Industry sources and public records support these estimates, though exact figures may vary based on contracts and ongoing projects.
Interesting Facts
- Bill Kurtis’s real name is William Horton Kurtis.
- He survived the 1966 Topeka tornado, which propelled his journalism career.
- Kurtis owns and operates the Red Buffalo Ranch in Kansas, focusing on tallgrass prairie restoration.
- He has narrated hundreds of episodes of true crime and history series.
- His deep, resonant voice is frequently sought for commercials and documentaries.
- He is an advocate for environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture.
Social Media Links
- Official Website: billkurtis.com
- Twitter/X: @billkurtis
- LinkedIn: Bill Kurtis
- Facebook: Bill Kurtis Official
- YouTube: Bill Kurtis on YouTube
Frequently Asked Questions
- How old is Bill Kurtis in 2025?
Bill Kurtis is 84 years old as of September 2025. - What is Bill Kurtis best known for?
He is best known for his work as a journalist, narrator of “Cold Case Files,” and as the announcer on NPR’s “Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me!” - Who is Bill Kurtis’s wife?
Bill Kurtis is married to Donna La Pietra, a television producer. - What is Bill Kurtis’s net worth?
As of 2025, his estimated net worth is approximately $15 million. - Is Bill Kurtis still active on NPR?
Yes, he continues to serve as the announcer and judge on NPR’s “Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me!” - Has Bill Kurtis won any major awards?
Yes, he has received multiple Emmy Awards, a Peabody Award, and several other honors for his journalism and broadcasting work.
Conclusion
Bill Kurtis’s enduring legacy as a journalist, narrator, and public radio icon continues to inspire audiences and professionals alike. His distinctive voice, commitment to truth, and remarkable storytelling have made him a household name in American media. If you found this biography insightful, please share it with others interested in the stories behind the voices that shape our world.
Sources: NPR, CBS News, The New York Times, The Washington Post, IMDb, University of Kansas, Washburn University School of Law, Kurtis Productions.
