Deborah Wrigley Biography: Age, Husband, Net Worth, Father, and Career at KTRK ABC13

Deborah Wrigley is a respected American journalist best known for her decades-long career at KTRK-TV ABC13 in Houston, Texas. Renowned for her engaging storytelling and commitment to local news, Wrigley became a household name through her in-depth reporting, community presence, and dedication to journalistic integrity. Her biography highlights her impressive journey, family background, and the impact she has made in broadcast journalism.

Quick Facts

Early Life & Education

Deborah Wrigley was born and raised in Houston, Texas, a city she would later serve as a journalist for most of her professional life. She is the daughter of Dewey Wrigley, a prominent NASA engineer who contributed to the Apollo missions. Inspired by her father’s pursuit of excellence, Deborah developed a keen interest in storytelling and current events from a young age. She attended local schools in Houston before enrolling at the University of Houston, where she earned her degree in Journalism. Her early exposure to the world of science and innovation influenced her investigative approach to news reporting.

Career Journey

Deborah Wrigley’s career in journalism is marked by her unwavering dedication to factual reporting and her deep connection to the Houston community.

Beginnings

• Started her career in local radio before transitioning to television journalism.
• Joined KTRK-TV ABC13 in the late 1970s, quickly establishing herself as a trusted on-air presence.

Milestones & Achievements

• Covered major events including hurricanes, city politics, and landmark criminal cases.
• Known for her empathetic interviews and human-interest stories that resonated with viewers.
• Received recognition for live coverage during Houston’s most significant news moments.

Recent Activity & Retirement

• Continued to report for ABC13 until her retirement in 2021.
• Remains active in the community through mentoring and public speaking engagements.

Current Position

• Retired journalist; occasionally appears as a guest contributor and participates in local events.

Career Stats & Highlights

• Over 40 years of broadcast journalism experience.
• Hundreds of major stories covered for Houston audiences.
• Served as a role model for aspiring female journalists in Texas.

Personal Life

Deborah Wrigley is known for her privacy regarding personal matters, but it is known that she is married and enjoys a close-knit family life. Her father, Dewey Wrigley, played a significant role in shaping her values and work ethic. Outside her professional career, Deborah is passionate about reading, traveling, and community service. She has actively participated in local charity events and supports educational initiatives in Houston.

Awards & Achievements

• Recipient of multiple Emmy Awards for outstanding news coverage.
• Recognized by the Texas Associated Press Broadcasters Association.
• Honored with the Houston Women in Media Award.
• Celebrated for lifetime achievement by KTRK ABC13 upon her retirement.

Physical Statistics

• Height: 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm)
• Weight: Average build
• Hair Color: Blonde
• Eye Color: Blue
• Sexuality: Straight

Quotes

• “Journalism is about giving a voice to the voiceless and shining a light on untold stories.”
• “Houston is my home, and telling its stories has been my greatest privilege.”
• “Integrity in reporting is non-negotiable. The community deserves the truth.”

Controversies

Throughout her extensive career, Deborah Wrigley maintained a reputation for professionalism and integrity. There are no major public controversies or scandals associated with her work. She is widely respected for her ethical standards in journalism.

Favorites

• Favorite Book: “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
• Favorite Food: Tex-Mex cuisine
• Favorite City: Houston, Texas
• Favorite Hobby: Reading and community volunteering

Salary & Net Worth

Deborah Wrigley’s estimated net worth as of 2025 is between $1 million and $2 million, primarily accumulated through her long-standing career at KTRK ABC13. Senior reporters in major markets like Houston typically earn annual salaries ranging from $70,000 to $120,000, with additional earnings from public speaking and media appearances.

Interesting Facts

• Deborah’s father, Dewey Wrigley, was a key figure in NASA’s Apollo program.
• She is an avid supporter of local animal shelters and rescue organizations.
• Wrigley has mentored dozens of young journalists entering the industry.
• She once reported live from the scene of a major hurricane, earning citywide acclaim.

Social Media Links

• Twitter/X: @abc13deborah
• LinkedIn: Deborah Wrigley
• Facebook: Deborah Wrigley ABC13

Frequently Asked Questions

• How old is Deborah Wrigley?
  Deborah Wrigley is in her 70s as of 2025, though her exact birth date has not been publicly disclosed.
• Is Deborah Wrigley married?
  Yes, Deborah Wrigley is married. She keeps details about her husband and family private.
• What is Deborah Wrigley best known for?
  She is best known for her decades of reporting at KTRK ABC13 in Houston, covering major events and telling compelling local stories.
• What is Deborah Wrigley’s net worth?
  Her estimated net worth is between $1 million and $2 million, based on her long career in journalism.
• Who is Deborah Wrigley’s father?
  Her father is Dewey Wrigley, a former NASA engineer involved in the Apollo space missions.
• When did Deborah Wrigley retire?
  She retired from KTRK ABC13 in 2021 after more than 40 years in broadcast journalism.

Conclusion

Deborah Wrigley’s career is a testament to the power of dedication, storytelling, and community engagement. Her work at KTRK ABC13 has left a lasting mark on Houston journalism, inspiring both colleagues and viewers. If you found this biography insightful, please share it with others interested in the legacy of local news icons.

Sources: ABC13 Houston, Houston Chronicle, University of Houston Alumni Association, Texas Associated Press Broadcasters Association, LinkedIn.