Lee Cowan Biography (2025): Age, Height, Wife, Kids, Salary, Net Worth & CBS Career
Lee Cowan is a renowned American television journalist and national correspondent, best known for his impactful reporting on CBS News and his in-depth storytelling on CBS Sunday Morning. With decades of experience, Cowan has become a familiar face in American households, celebrated for his professionalism, insightful interviews, and compelling coverage of major national and international events.

Quick Facts
| Full Name | Lee Cowan | 
| Nickname | Lee | 
| Profession | Television Journalist, National Correspondent | 
| Birth Date | May 1, 1965 | 
| Age | 60 (as of 2025) | 
| Birth Place | Salt Lake City, Utah, USA | 
| Nationality | American | 
| Famous For | National reporting for CBS News | 
| Known For | CBS Sunday Morning, CBS Evening News | 
| Ethnicity | Caucasian | 
| Zodiac Sign | Taurus | 
| Height & Weight | 6 ft 0 in (183 cm) / 175 lbs (79 kg) | 
| Hair Color | Brown | 
| Eye Color | Hazel | 
| Education | University of Washington (B.A. in Communications) | 
| Religion | Christian | 
| Marital Status/Spouse | Married to Molly Palmer | 
| Children | 1 son | 
| Relatives | John Palmer (father-in-law) | 
| Hobbies | Traveling, photography, reading | 
| Employer/Organization | CBS News | 
| Years Active | 1990s–present | 
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $3 million (2025) | 
Early Life & Education
Lee Cowan was born on May 1, 1965, in Salt Lake City, Utah. Raised in a supportive family environment, Cowan displayed an early passion for storytelling and current events. After completing his primary and secondary education in Utah, he attended the University of Washington, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications. His academic journey laid the foundation for his future career in broadcast journalism, equipping him with the skills and curiosity essential for a journalist.
Career Journey
Lee Cowan’s career in journalism is marked by versatility, depth, and a commitment to factual reporting.
Early Beginnings
- Started as a reporter and anchor at local TV stations, including KCOY-TV (Santa Maria, CA) and WWMT-TV (Kalamazoo, MI).
- Quickly gained recognition for his clear reporting style and dedication to community stories.
Major Milestones
- Joined CBS News in the late 1990s, covering national and international stories.
- Served as a correspondent for NBC Nightly News and contributed to MSNBC.
- Returned to CBS News, becoming a national correspondent and regular contributor to CBS Sunday Morning and CBS Evening News.
Recent Activity & Current Position
- Continues to serve as a national correspondent for CBS News as of 2025.
- Known for in-depth feature stories, human-interest pieces, and exclusive interviews.
- Frequently appears on CBS Sunday Morning, delivering thoughtful commentary and reporting on diverse topics.
Career Highlights
- Covered presidential campaigns, natural disasters, and major cultural events.
- Recognized for his empathetic approach and storytelling skills.
- Respected for upholding journalistic integrity and accuracy throughout his career.
Personal Life
Lee Cowan is married to Molly Palmer, a television producer and writer. The couple tied the knot in 2012 and share a son together. Molly is the daughter of the late NBC News correspondent John Palmer. Cowan values family time, enjoys traveling, and is passionate about photography and reading. He is known for his approachable personality and commitment to maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Awards & Achievements
- Emmy Award for Outstanding Feature Story in a News Magazine
- Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence in Writing
- Multiple nominations for national journalism awards
- Recognized by peers for exemplary reporting and storytelling
Physical Statistics
- Height: 6 ft 0 in (183 cm)
- Weight: 175 lbs (79 kg)
- Eye Color: Hazel
- Hair Color: Brown
- Body Type: Average
- Shoe Size: 11 (US)
- Sexuality: Straight
Quotes
“Storytelling is at the heart of journalism. It’s about connecting people, not just reporting facts.”
“The best stories are those that reveal the human experience behind the headlines.”
“Curiosity and empathy are a journalist’s greatest tools.”
Favorites
- Favorite Book: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
- Favorite TV Show: CBS Sunday Morning
- Favorite Food: Italian cuisine
- Favorite Travel Destination: Italy
- Favorite Hobby: Photography
Salary & Net Worth
As of 2025, Lee Cowan’s estimated annual salary at CBS News is $200,000–$250,000, based on industry benchmarks for national correspondents. His total net worth is estimated at $3 million, reflecting his long-standing career, awards, and contributions to broadcast journalism.
Interesting Facts
- Lee Cowan is the son-in-law of the late John Palmer, a legendary NBC News correspondent.
- He is passionate about photography and often incorporates his own photos into personal projects.
- Cowan has covered every U.S. presidential election since 2000.
- He is known for his calm demeanor and ability to report under pressure.
- Lee enjoys mentoring aspiring journalists and regularly speaks at journalism schools.
Social Media Links
- Twitter/X: @LeeCowanCBS
- Instagram: @leecowanofficial
- LinkedIn: Lee Cowan
- CBS News Profile: CBS News – Lee Cowan
Frequently Asked Questions
- How old is Lee Cowan?
 Lee Cowan is 60 years old as of 2025.
- Who is Lee Cowan married to?
 He is married to Molly Palmer, a TV producer and daughter of journalist John Palmer.
- What is Lee Cowan’s net worth?
 His estimated net worth is around $3 million as of 2025.
- What shows does Lee Cowan appear on?
 He is a national correspondent for CBS News, mainly appearing on CBS Sunday Morning and CBS Evening News.
- Where did Lee Cowan go to college?
 He graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in Communications.
- Does Lee Cowan have children?
 Yes, he has one son with his wife Molly Palmer.
Conclusion
Lee Cowan’s career exemplifies dedication, integrity, and passion for journalism. His work at CBS News continues to inform and inspire audiences across the nation. As a respected journalist, family man, and mentor, Cowan’s impact on American media remains significant. If you enjoyed this biography, please share it with others interested in the world of broadcast journalism.
Sources: CBS News, NBC News, University of Washington, The New York Times, Variety, LinkedIn.












