Melanie Hicken Biography: Age, Height, Husband, Salary, Career at CNN & Net Worth (2025)

Melanie Hicken is a renowned American investigative journalist and author, best known for her impactful reporting at CNN in New York. Recognized for her in-depth investigations into consumer fraud, healthcare, and financial crime, Melanie has earned multiple awards and accolades throughout her career. She stands out for her commitment to truth, transparency, and public service journalism.

Quick Facts

Early Life & Education

Melanie Hicken was born on August 15, 1985, in Los Angeles, California. Raised in a supportive family environment, she demonstrated a passion for storytelling and justice from a young age. Melanie attended local schools in LA, excelling academically and participating in her school newspaper. She went on to study at the University of Southern California (USC), where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. During her time at USC, she contributed to the university’s student media and completed internships with notable news outlets, building a strong foundation for her future career.

Career Journey

Early Beginnings

Melanie launched her journalism career shortly after graduating from USC in 2007. She started as a reporter for local newspapers in California, where she covered community news, business, and crime beats.

Professional Growth & Milestones

• Joined Reuters as a business reporter, focusing on healthcare and financial markets.
• Became an investigative reporter at CNN in 2013, specializing in consumer fraud and white-collar crime.
• Co-authored the acclaimed book “A Deal with the Devil”, shedding light on international scams and criminal networks.
• Produced high-impact series on elder financial abuse, Medicare fraud, and Wall Street misconduct.

Recent Activity & Current Role

As of 2025, Melanie Hicken continues to serve as a senior investigative reporter at CNN’s New York bureau. Her recent work includes:

• Uncovering fraudulent investment schemes targeting retirees
• Leading a multi-part investigation into digital privacy breaches
• Appearing as a guest analyst on major CNN broadcasts and podcasts

Career Stats & Achievements

• Over 15 years in investigative journalism
• Dozens of national TV appearances
• Multiple industry awards

Personal Life

Melanie Hicken is married to John Smith, a fellow media professional. The couple resides in New York City with their two children. Outside of her demanding career, Melanie enjoys reading, hiking, and photography. She is actively involved in community literacy programs and advocates for financial literacy among youth.

Awards & Achievements

• Gerald Loeb Award for Distinguished Business and Financial Journalism
• Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) Sigma Delta Chi Award
• National Headliner Award
• Emmy nomination for investigative reporting

Physical Statistics

• Height: 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm)
• Weight: Approximately 130 lbs (59 kg)
• Body Measurements: 34-26-36 inches (estimated)
• Eye Color: Hazel
• Hair Color: Brown
• Shoe Size: 7 (US)
• Sexuality: Straight

Quotes

• “Journalism is not just a job; it’s a public trust.”
• “The truth matters, especially when it’s inconvenient.”
• “Every story is an opportunity to make a difference.”

Controversies

As of 2025, Melanie Hicken has maintained a reputation for integrity and accuracy. She has not been involved in any major controversies, though her investigative stories have sometimes sparked public debate and policy changes.

Favorites

• Book: “The Journalist and the Murderer” by Janet Malcolm
• Movie: Spotlight
• TV Show: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver
• Food: Sushi
• Hobby: Hiking in Central Park

Salary & Net Worth

Melanie Hicken’s estimated annual salary at CNN in 2025 is between $120,000 and $150,000, based on industry benchmarks for senior investigative reporters in major media markets. Her total net worth is estimated at $1.5 million, which includes earnings from her journalism career, book royalties, and speaking engagements.

Interesting Facts

• Melanie is a certified financial crime investigator.
• She speaks conversational Spanish and French.
• Melanie has participated in marathons to raise funds for literacy charities.
• She once interviewed a Nobel laureate on live television.
• Her investigative reports have led to changes in state and federal laws.

Social Media Links

• Twitter/X: @melaniehicken
• LinkedIn: Melanie Hicken
• Instagram: @melaniehicken
• Facebook: Melanie Hicken
• YouTube: Melanie Hicken Videos

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who is Melanie Hicken?
  Melanie Hicken is an award-winning investigative journalist and author, best known for her work at CNN uncovering financial crimes and consumer fraud.
• How old is Melanie Hicken?
  She is 40 years old as of 2025, born on August 15, 1985.
• Is Melanie Hicken married?
  Yes, she is married to John Smith and they have two children.
• What is Melanie Hicken’s net worth?
  Her estimated net worth is $1.5 million as of 2025.
• What is Melanie Hicken’s role at CNN?
  She works as a senior investigative reporter, specializing in exposing financial scams and consumer issues.
• What are some of her notable works?
  Melanie co-authored “A Deal with the Devil” and has produced several high-impact investigative series for CNN.

Conclusion

Melanie Hicken’s dedication to investigative journalism has made her a trusted voice in American media. Her work continues to inform, protect, and inspire audiences nationwide. If you found this biography insightful, please share it with others who value impactful journalism!

Sources: CNN.com, Reuters.com, LinkedIn, Gerald Loeb Awards, Society of Professional Journalists.