Jackie Bange Bio 2026: Age, Height, Husband, Family, Net Worth, WGN-TV, Career

Jackie Bange is an Emmy-winning American broadcast journalist who has become a household name in Chicago television. Known for her decades-long tenure at WGN-TV and her adventurous reporting style, Bange has established herself as one of the most respected news anchors in the Midwest broadcasting scene.

Quick Facts

Early Life & Education

Jackie Bange was born on September 8, 1961, in Miami, Florida, into a family deeply rooted in broadcasting. Her mother worked as a weather girl in Lancaster, Pennsylvania for nearly two decades, while her father was a well-known Florida-based news anchor. Growing up in this media-oriented household, Jackie developed a passion for journalism from an early age, inspired by her parents’ dedication to the craft.

She pursued her higher education with distinction, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems from Florida State University. Recognizing her true calling in broadcast journalism, she later completed a post-baccalaureate degree in Telecommunications from the University of Florida with great distinction, laying a solid foundation for her future career in media.

Career Journey

Early Beginnings (1980s-1990)

Jackie began her professional journey as a noon anchor and reporter for CBS affiliate WPEC-TV in West Palm Beach, Florida. During her time there, she honed her skills in live reporting and developed her signature engaging storytelling style that would later become her trademark.

Chicago Market Entry (1990-1993)

In 1990, Bange made the significant move to Chicago, joining NBC-owned station WMAQ-TV as a general assignment reporter and weekend anchor. This transition marked her entry into one of the nation’s largest media markets, where she covered major stories and established herself as a reliable journalist.

WGN-TV Era (1993-Present)

The WGN Morning News (1993-1995)

Jackie joined WGN-TV in August 1993 as a general assignment reporter. Her talent and dedication quickly earned her the co-anchor position for WGN Morning News from January to October 1995.

Weekend Evening Anchor (1995-Present)

Since October 1995, Bange has served as the weekend evening anchor for WGN News at Nine, co-anchoring with Robert Jordan. Her longevity in this role spans over three decades, making her one of the most recognizable faces in Chicago television news.

Notable Coverage & Achievements

Throughout her tenure at WGN, Jackie has covered numerous significant events:

• International Reporting: Covered exotic locales including Paris, Africa, and France
• Hurricane Katrina: Reported live from the aftermath in New Orleans
• “Into the Darkness”: Award-winning feature on local pilots’ rescue efforts during Katrina
• Illinois Associated Press Award: Won for Best Hard News Feature for “Into the Darkness”

Adventure Journalism

Beyond traditional news reporting, Jackie has distinguished herself through adventure journalism:

• Skydiving Segments: Participated in skydiving for news features
• Chicago Triathlon: Completed the Olympic-length triathlon in 2009
• Extreme Sports Coverage: Incorporated adventure sports into her reporting repertoire

Career Stats & Achievements

Awards & Recognition

• Regional Emmy Award (1999): Best Feature Reporting for series on skydivers attempting world record formation
• Peter Lisagor Award (2009): Investigative reporting for helping widow seek justice in husband’s drunk driving death case
• Illinois Associated Press Award: Best Hard News Feature for “Into the Darkness”
• Multiple Emmy Nominations: Throughout her career for various reporting categories

Notable Stories & Contributions

• Over 30 years of continuous service at WGN-TV
• Covered major national and international events
• Pioneered adventure journalism in local news
• Mentored numerous journalism students through Elmhurst College’s Mentor program

Personal Life

Marriage & Family

Jackie Bange has been married to George Strickland since the early 1990s. Together, they have built a beautiful family with three children: twin daughters and a son. The family resides in Chicago, where they are actively involved in community activities.

Previous Relationship

Before her marriage to George Strickland, Jackie was romantically involved with Dale Chapman, a television executive and producer, during her early career days.

Community Involvement

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jackie is deeply committed to community service:

• Active participation in local Chicago charities
• Mentorship programs for aspiring journalists
• Community event hosting and participation
• Support for various social causes

Hobbies & Interests

• Adventure Sports: Skydiving, triathlon participation
• Fitness: Maintains an active lifestyle
• Travel: Enjoys exploring new destinations for both work and pleasure
• Family Activities: Devotes significant time to family-oriented activities

Physical Statistics

• Height: 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm)
• Weight: Approximately 135 pounds (61 kg)
• Body Type: Slim and athletic
• Hair Color: Blonde
• Eye Color: Blue
• Distinctive Features: Professional appearance, engaging smile, athletic build maintained through active lifestyle

Quotes

On journalism and storytelling: “Every story has a human element that connects us all. My job is to find that connection and bring it to our viewers.”

On balancing career and family: “Being a mother and a journalist has taught me that every moment counts – both in the newsroom and at home with my family.”

On adventure journalism: “Stepping out of my comfort zone helps me tell stories with authenticity and passion. Whether it’s skydiving or covering a breaking news story, I’m fully committed to bringing viewers the experience.”

Controversies

Throughout her extensive career, Jackie Bange has maintained a reputation for professionalism and integrity. There are no significant controversies associated with her name, which speaks to her commitment to ethical journalism and responsible reporting.

Favorites

• News Stories: Human interest pieces that highlight community resilience
• Reporting Style: Adventure journalism and immersive storytelling
• Chicago Neighborhoods: Enjoys exploring diverse communities for story ideas
• Professional Moments: Live reporting from the field during major events
• Personal Time: Family vacations and outdoor activities

Salary & Net Worth

Salary Information

As a veteran weekend anchor at WGN-TV, Jackie Bange earns an estimated annual salary ranging from $85,000 to $120,000, reflecting her experience and longevity in the Chicago market.

Net Worth Breakdown

• 2026 Net Worth: $500,000
• Primary Income Source: WGN-TV anchor salary
• Additional Income: Speaking engagements, appearances, and potential book deals
• Assets: Chicago area home, retirement savings, and investments

Net Worth Growth

• 2020: $400,000
• 2022: $450,000
• 2024: $475,000
• 2026: $500,000

Interesting Facts

1. Skydiving Enthusiast: Jackie has incorporated skydiving into her reporting, showing her commitment to immersive journalism.
2. Triathlon Finisher: She completed the Olympic-length Chicago Triathlon in 2009, demonstrating her dedication to fitness.
3. Mentorship Role: Actively mentors journalism students at Elmhurst College, giving back to the next generation.
4. Award-Winning Feature: Her “Into the Darkness” feature on Hurricane Katrina rescue pilots earned critical acclaim.
5. Decades at WGN: Celebrated 30+ years at WGN-TV, making her one of the longest-serving anchors in Chicago television.
6. Adventure Journalism Pioneer: Known for combining her love of adventure sports with news reporting.

Did You Know?

• Jackie Bange’s parents were both in broadcasting, making her a second-generation journalist
• She has covered stories from four different continents during her career
• Her twin daughters were born during her tenure at WGN, and she balanced new motherhood with her anchoring duties
• She once did a live report while skydiving, showcasing her commitment to immersive journalism
• Jackie has been nominated for more than 15 Emmy Awards throughout her career

Social Media Links

• Facebook: Jackie Bange WGN
• Instagram: @jackiebange
• LinkedIn: Jackie Bange
• WGN-TV Profile: wgntv.com/author/jackie-bange

Frequently Asked Questions

How long has Jackie Bange been with WGN-TV?
Jackie Bange joined WGN-TV in August 1993 and has been with the station for over 32 years, making her one of the longest-serving anchors in Chicago television history.

What awards has Jackie Bange won?
Jackie has won numerous awards including a Regional Emmy Award for Best Feature Reporting (1999), the Peter Lisagor Award for investigative reporting (2009), and the Illinois Associated Press Award for Best Hard News Feature.

Is Jackie Bange still doing adventure reporting?
Yes, Jackie continues to incorporate adventure elements into her reporting when appropriate, including skydiving segments and outdoor adventure features, though she balances this with her family responsibilities.

How many children does Jackie Bange have?
Jackie Bange has three children: twin daughters and a son, all of whom she raises with her husband George Strickland in the Chicago area.

What is Jackie Bange’s most memorable story?
Among her most memorable stories is “Into the Darkness,” her award-winning feature on local pilots who were first responders during Hurricane Katrina, which earned her the Illinois Associated Press Award.

Conclusion

Jackie Bange’s remarkable career spanning over three decades at WGN-TV Chicago exemplifies dedication, professionalism, and innovation in broadcast journalism. From her early days in Miami to becoming one of Chicago’s most recognizable news anchors, she has consistently delivered quality journalism while balancing family life and community involvement. Her commitment to adventure journalism, award-winning reporting, and mentorship of future journalists ensures her legacy will continue to influence the industry for years to come.

Share this article to celebrate the incredible career of this pioneering broadcast journalist who has become an integral part of Chicago’s media landscape.