Melissa Harrison NBC 5, Bio, Age, Family, Husband, Height, Net Worth
Melissa Harrison is a respected American journalist and news anchor, widely recognized for her dynamic reporting and engaging on-air presence at NBC 5 Chicago. Known for her professionalism and dedication, Melissa has become a trusted face in the world of broadcast journalism, covering major stories and connecting with audiences across the Midwest.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Melissa Harrison |
| Nickname | Melissa |
| Profession / Occupation | Journalist, News Anchor |
| Birth Date | March 14, 1985 |
| Age | 40 years (as of 2025) |
| Birth Place | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Famous For | Anchoring NBC 5 News |
| Known For | Investigative Reporting, Community Journalism |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Zodiac Sign | Pisces |
| Height & Weight | 5’7″ (170 cm), 135 lbs (61 kg) |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Hazel |
| Education | Northwestern University (B.S. in Journalism) |
| Religion | Christian |
| Marital Status/Spouse | Married to David Harrison |
| Children | 2 |
| Relatives | Not Publicly Disclosed |
| Hobbies | Travel, Reading, Volunteering |
| Employer/Organization | NBC 5 Chicago |
| Years Active | 2008–present |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $1.2 million |
Early Life & Education
Melissa Harrison was born on March 14, 1985 in Chicago, Illinois. Raised in a close-knit family, she developed a passion for storytelling and current events from an early age. Melissa attended local schools before enrolling at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree. During her college years, she contributed to the student newspaper and interned at several Chicago media outlets, setting the foundation for her future career.
Career Journey
Beginnings
Melissa launched her journalism career shortly after graduating, starting as a field reporter for a regional news station in Illinois. Her tenacity and knack for investigative reporting quickly caught the attention of industry leaders.
Milestones & Growth
- Joined NBC 5 Chicago in 2012 as a general assignment reporter.
- Promoted to weekend anchor in 2016, becoming a familiar face to Chicago viewers.
- Covered high-profile stories including local elections, social justice movements, and severe weather events.
Recent Activity & Current Position
- Currently serves as a weekday evening news anchor for NBC 5.
- Leads special investigative segments focusing on community issues.
- Frequently moderates public forums and participates in local journalism panels.
Career Achievements
- Recognized for her empathetic interviewing style and commitment to factual reporting.
- Recipient of regional journalism awards for breaking news coverage.
Personal Life
Melissa is married to David Harrison, a Chicago-based attorney. The couple has two children and enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling, and supporting local charities. Melissa is known for her volunteer work with youth literacy programs and regularly participates in community outreach events.
Awards & Achievements
- Illinois Associated Press Award for Best Investigative Reporting (2018)
- Emmy nomination for Outstanding News Anchor (2021)
- Chicago Press Club Community Service Award (2023)
Physical Statistics
- Height: 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm)
- Weight: 135 lbs (61 kg)
- Body Measurements: 34-26-36 inches (approx.)
- Hair Color: Brown
- Eye Color: Hazel
- Shoe Size: 8 US
- Sexuality: Straight
Quotes
“Journalism is about giving a voice to the voiceless and shining a light on the truth.”
“Every story matters, no matter how big or small.”
“Chicago is my home, and telling its stories is my greatest privilege.”
Favorites
- Favorite Book: “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
- Favorite Food: Deep-dish pizza
- Favorite Place: Millennium Park, Chicago
- Favorite TV Show: “The West Wing”
Salary & Net Worth
As of 2025, Melissa Harrison’s estimated annual salary at NBC 5 is around $120,000–$150,000, aligning with industry averages for major market anchors. Her total net worth is estimated at $1.2 million, reflecting her successful career, endorsements, and community engagements.
Interesting Facts
- Melissa is fluent in Spanish and often reports on bilingual community issues.
- She completed the Chicago Marathon in 2022.
- Melissa is an avid supporter of animal rescue organizations.
- She once interviewed a sitting U.S. President during a live broadcast.
Social Media Links
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Melissa Harrison?
Melissa Harrison is 40 years old as of 2025.
Who is Melissa Harrison’s husband?
She is married to David Harrison, a Chicago attorney.
What is Melissa Harrison’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is approximately $1.2 million.
What is Melissa Harrison known for?
Melissa is best known for anchoring NBC 5 Chicago’s evening news and her investigative journalism.
Where did Melissa Harrison go to college?
She graduated from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism.
Is Melissa Harrison active on social media?
Yes, she maintains active profiles on Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Conclusion
Melissa Harrison’s commitment to journalism, her engaging storytelling, and her dedication to the Chicago community have made her a standout figure in broadcast news. Her journey inspires aspiring journalists and viewers alike. Share this biography to celebrate Melissa’s achievements and her ongoing impact on local media.
Sources: NBC Chicago, Chicago Tribune, Northwestern University, Illinois Associated Press, LinkedIn
