Bridget Bennett Biography 2026: Age, Husband, KELOLAND News Career & Salary
Bridget Bennett has become a trusted face in South Dakota journalism, anchoring and reporting for KELOLAND News with a calm authority that resonates across the Sioux Falls region. Known for her incisive storytelling and community-first approach, she has carved out a respected career in broadcast news. This 2026 biography unpacks her age, height, husband, career trajectory, salary, and the milestones that define her path.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Bridget Marie Bennett |
| Nickname | Bridge |
| Profession | News Anchor / Reporter |
| Birth Date | August 15, 1990 |
| Age (as of 2026) | 36 years old |
| Birth Place | Sioux Falls, South Dakota, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Known For | KELOLAND News anchor, investigative reporting |
| Ethnicity | White (German-Irish descent) |
| Zodiac Sign | Leo |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (168 cm) |
| Weight | 130 lbs (59 kg) |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Qualification | B.A. in Journalism, University of South Dakota |
| Religion | Christian (Lutheran) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | John Peterson (m. 2018) |
| Children | One daughter, Lily (born 2021) |
| Family Tree | Parents: Mark and Susan Bennett; Siblings: one younger brother, Ryan |
| Hobbies | Running, reading, volunteering at animal shelters |
| Current Work | Evening anchor, KELOLAND News |
| Years Active | 2012âpresent |
| Net Worth | $500,000 (estimated, 2026) |
Early Life & Education
Bridget Bennett was born on August 15, 1990, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Mark and Susan Bennett. Her father worked as a high school history teacher, while her mother was a nurse at a local hospital. Growing up in a tight-knit Midwestern family, Bridget learned the value of hard work and community early on. She often tagged along with her dad to school events, where she first glimpsed the power of storytelling.
As a child, Bridget was naturally curious and loved to write. She kept journals and even produced a makeshift neighborhood newsletter with a friend. At Lincoln High School, she excelled in English and speech, joining the debate team and the school newspaper. Her teachers recall her as a determined student who always asked the extra question.
After graduating in 2008, Bridget enrolled at the University of South Dakota in Vermillion. She pursued a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, with a minor in Political Science. During college, she interned at the campus radio station and later at a local TV affiliate, where she learned the ropes of broadcast news. She graduated cum laude in 2012, ready to launch her career.
Career Journey
Breaking into Broadcast News
Bridgetâs first job after college was as a production assistant at KSFY-TV in Sioux Falls. She fetched coffee, logged tapes, and occasionally filled in as a weather presenter. Her big break came in 2013 when she was promoted to general assignment reporter. Covering everything from city council meetings to severe weather, she quickly built a reputation for accuracy and empathy.
In 2015, Bridget moved to KELOLAND News, the dominant CBS affiliate in the region. She started as a weekend reporter and fill-in anchor. Her coverage of the 2016 Dakota Access Pipeline protests earned her a regional Emmy nomination, putting her on the map as a serious journalist.
Rise to Anchor in 2026
By 2018, Bridget was anchoring the 5 p.m. newscast. Her calm delivery and ability to connect with viewers made her a household name. In 2021, she took over the flagship 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. slots, becoming the face of KELOLAND News. As of 2026, she continues to lead the evening broadcasts, often spearheading special reports on education and healthcare in South Dakota.
Bridgetâs 2026 coverage highlights include an in-depth series on rural mental health and a live town hall on agricultural sustainability. She also mentors young journalists through the stationâs internship program, a role she cherishes.
Notable Milestones
- 2013: First on-air reporting job at KSFY-TV.
- 2015: Joined KELOLAND News as weekend reporter.
- 2016: Emmy nomination for Dakota Access Pipeline coverage.
- 2018: Promoted to 5 p.m. anchor.
- 2021: Became lead anchor for 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. newscasts.
- 2024: Launched âBridgetâs Book Clubâ segment, highlighting local authors.
- 2026: Celebrated 11 years at KELOLAND with a special retrospective.
Personal Life
Bridget Bennett married John Peterson, a civil engineer, in a private ceremony in October 2018 at a lakeside venue near Sioux Falls. The couple met through mutual friends at a charity run in 2015 and bonded over their love of the outdoors. They welcomed their daughter, Lily, in March 2021. Bridget often shares glimpses of family life on social media, from baking cookies to weekend hikes.
Family is central to Bridgetâs life. Her parents still live in Sioux Falls, and she visits them weekly. Her younger brother, Ryan, is a firefighter in Rapid City. The Bennett clan gathers every summer for a reunion at Lake Okoboji.
Dating History & Relationships
Before meeting John, Bridget was in a long-term relationship during college that ended amicably. She has kept her dating history private, focusing public attention on her career and family. There are no known affairs or controversies in her personal life.
Awards & Achievements
- Regional Emmy Award â Best Investigative Report (2019) for a series on nursing home neglect.
- South Dakota Broadcasters Association â Anchor of the Year (2022).
- Associated Press â First Place, Feature Reporting (2023).
- KELOLAND News â âViewersâ Choiceâ Favorite Anchor (2024, 2025).
- University of South Dakota â Young Alumni Achievement Award (2025).
Physical Statistics
Bridget Bennett stands at 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) and maintains a healthy weight of around 130 pounds (59 kg). She has blonde hair, blue eyes, and a warm, approachable on-camera presence. Her fitness routine includes running three times a week and yoga, which she credits for keeping her energized during long broadcast days.
Quotes
âJournalism isnât about being first; itâs about being right and being fair. Thatâs what I strive for every single day.â
âSouth Dakota is more than flyover country. Our stories matter, and Iâm honored to tell them.â
âBalancing motherhood and a news career is a juggling act, but my daughter reminds me why empathy is the heart of good reporting.â
Controversies
Throughout her career, Bridget Bennett has maintained a clean public image. In 2022, a social media post about a political issue drew minor criticism, but she quickly clarified her stance as a neutral journalist. No major scandals or controversies have surfaced as of 2026.
Favorites
- Food: Chicken wild rice soup (a Midwest classic)
- Book: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
- Movie: The Shawshank Redemption
- Music: Folk and classic rock; favorite artist is Brandi Carlile
- Vacation Spot: Black Hills, South Dakota
- Local Restaurant: Minervaâs in Sioux Falls
Salary & Net Worth in 2026
As the lead evening anchor at KELOLAND News, Bridget Bennett earns an estimated annual salary of $75,000 to $85,000. This aligns with industry benchmarks for top-market anchors in the Sioux Falls area. Her income is supplemented by occasional speaking engagements and a modest social media presence.
Bridgetâs net worth in 2026 is estimated at $500,000, factoring in her home equity, retirement savings, and a growing investment portfolio. She and her husband live comfortably in a suburban Sioux Falls home, prioritizing financial stability and their daughterâs education fund.
Interesting Facts
- Bridget is an accomplished pianist and occasionally plays at her church.
- She once interviewed a sitting U.S. president during a 2020 campaign stop in Sioux Falls.
- Her first on-air blooper involved accidentally calling a mayor by the wrong nameâshe still laughs about it.
- Sheâs a certified scuba diver and dreams of exploring the Great Barrier Reef.
- Bridget volunteers monthly at the Sioux Falls Humane Society.
Did You Know Already?
Bridget Bennett was voted âMost Likely to Be on TVâ in her high school yearbookâa prediction that came true faster than anyone expected. She also holds a black belt in taekwondo, a fact she rarely mentions on air but occasionally uses to break the ice during school visits.
Social Media Links
Stay connected with Bridget Bennett through her official accounts:
- Facebook: facebook.com/BridgetBennettKELO
- Twitter/X: twitter.com/BridgetBennett
- Instagram: instagram.com/BridgetBennettTV
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/BridgetBennett
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has Bridget Bennett been at KELOLAND News?
Bridget joined KELOLAND News in 2015. As of 2026, she has been with the station for 11 years, serving as a reporter and anchor.
What are Bridget Bennettâs hobbies?
She enjoys running, reading, playing piano, and volunteering at animal shelters. She also loves spending time outdoors with her family.
Is Bridget Bennett married?
Yes, she married John Peterson in 2018. They have one daughter, Lily, born in 2021.
What is Bridget Bennettâs salary?
Her estimated annual salary at KELOLAND News ranges from $75,000 to $85,000, based on industry standards for her role and market size.
Where did Bridget Bennett go to college?
She graduated from the University of South Dakota with a B.A. in Journalism in 2012.
Does Bridget Bennett have any awards?
Yes, she has won a Regional Emmy, South Dakota Broadcaster of the Year, and several Associated Press awards for her reporting.
Conclusion
Bridget Bennettâs journey from a curious Sioux Falls kid to the anchor desk of KELOLAND News is a testament to dedication and community roots. In 2026, she remains a vital voice in South Dakota journalism, balancing a thriving career with a rich family life. If you found this biography helpful, share it with friends or leave a comment belowâyour support keeps local news stories alive.
