Lourdes Duarte Biography: Age, Family, Husband, Baby, Net Worth & Career at WGN-TV

Lourdes Duarte is an acclaimed American television journalist, best known as an Emmy Award-winning investigative reporter and news anchor at WGN-TV in Chicago. Renowned for her engaging on-air presence, impactful storytelling, and commitment to community issues, Duarte has become a prominent figure in Midwest broadcasting. Her career, personal life, and achievements make her a notable inspiration in journalism.

Quick Facts

Early Life & Education

Lourdes Duarte was born on December 14, 1976 in Chicago, Illinois, into a Cuban-American family. Raised in a bilingual household, she developed a passion for storytelling and community involvement from an early age. Duarte attended local schools in Chicago before enrolling at DePaul University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications. Her early interests in journalism and advocacy shaped her future career in broadcast news.

Career Journey

Beginnings in Journalism

Duarte began her journalism career in radio, working as a reporter and anchor for stations in Miami and Detroit. Her bilingual skills allowed her to connect with diverse audiences and cover stories relevant to Hispanic communities.

Rising Through the Ranks

• Joined WXIN-TV in Indianapolis as a general assignment reporter.
• Worked at Telemundo in Chicago, anchoring Spanish-language newscasts.
• Recognized for her investigative reporting and community-focused journalism.

WGN-TV and Major Milestones

• Joined WGN-TV in 2007 as a general assignment reporter.
• Promoted to co-anchor of the WGN Evening News at 4pm, becoming one of the few Latina anchors in a major Chicago market.
• Launched and hosted Adelante Chicago, a bilingual public affairs show focusing on local Latino issues.
• Earned multiple Emmy Awards for her investigative and community reporting.

Recent Activity & Current Role

As of 2025, Lourdes Duarte remains a leading anchor at WGN-TV, co-hosting the evening news and contributing to special investigative series. She is widely respected for her integrity, professionalism, and dedication to uplifting underrepresented voices.

Personal Life

Lourdes is engaged to Matt McGrath, the press secretary for the mayor of Chicago. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter, in 2019. Duarte is known for her commitment to family, often sharing moments from her personal life on social media.

Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, cooking, and volunteering with local organizations. Lourdes is passionate about supporting educational and cultural initiatives in the Chicago area.

Awards & Achievements

• Multiple Emmy Awards for investigative and community reporting
• Recipient of the Society of Professional Journalists Award
• Named among Chicago’s Most Influential Latinas
• Recognized by the National Association of Hispanic Journalists

Physical Statistics

• Height: 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 m)
• Weight: Approximately 62 kg (137 lbs)
• Body Measurements: 34-26-36 inches (approximate)
• Hair Color: Dark Brown
• Eye Color: Brown
• Shoe Size: 8 (US)
• Sexuality: Straight

Quotes

“Telling the stories of our community is both a privilege and a responsibility.”

“Journalism is about giving a voice to those who might not otherwise be heard.”

“Every day is a new opportunity to make a difference.”

Controversies

As of October 2025, Lourdes Duarte has maintained a professional reputation and has not been publicly involved in any major controversies. She is respected for her ethical journalism and positive community impact.

Favorites

• Favorite Food: Cuban cuisine, especially ropa vieja
• Favorite Book: “The House on Mango Street” by Sandra Cisneros
• Favorite TV Show: Documentaries and news specials
• Favorite Destination: Havana, Cuba

Salary & Net Worth

As of 2025, Lourdes Duarte’s estimated net worth is $1.5 million. Her annual salary at WGN-TV is reported to be in the range of $80,000–$120,000, reflecting her experience and status as a leading news anchor. Additional earnings come from speaking engagements and media appearances.

Interesting Facts

• Lourdes is fluent in both English and Spanish, allowing her to connect with a wide range of viewers.
• She launched WGN-TV’s first public affairs show dedicated to Chicago’s Latino community.
• Duarte is a strong advocate for diversity in journalism and mentors aspiring reporters.
• She often participates in charity runs and community fundraising events.

Social Media Links

• Facebook: Lourdes Duarte WGN
• X (Twitter): @LourdesWGN
• Instagram: @lourdestv
• LinkedIn: Lourdes Duarte

Frequently Asked Questions

• How old is Lourdes Duarte?
  As of 2025, Lourdes Duarte is 48 years old. She was born on December 14, 1976.
• Is Lourdes Duarte married?
  No, she is engaged to Matt McGrath, but they have not officially married yet.
• Does Lourdes Duarte have children?
  Yes, Lourdes has one daughter, born in 2019.
• What is Lourdes Duarte’s net worth?
  Her estimated net worth is around $1.5 million as of 2025.
• Where does Lourdes Duarte work?
  She is a news anchor and investigative reporter at WGN-TV in Chicago.
• What is Lourdes Duarte famous for?
  She is known for her award-winning journalism, especially her work in investigative reporting and bilingual news coverage.

Conclusion

Lourdes Duarte’s dedication to journalism, her community, and her family has made her a respected and influential figure in Chicago media. Her achievements at WGN-TV and beyond continue to inspire aspiring journalists and viewers alike. If you found this biography insightful, feel free to share it with others interested in impactful journalism and media personalities.

Sources: WGN-TV, Chicago Tribune, Society of Professional Journalists, National Association of Hispanic Journalists, DePaul University, NBC Chicago.