Michael Wooten Biography: Age, Height, Family, Career, Salary & Net Worth at WGRZ
Michael Wooten is a renowned American journalist and anchor, widely recognized for his compelling news coverage and leadership at WGRZ-TV in Buffalo, New York. With a career spanning over a decade, Michael has earned a reputation for delivering trustworthy news, in-depth reporting, and community engagement, making him a notable figure in Western New York media.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Michael Wooten |
| Nickname | Mike |
| Profession / Occupation | Journalist, News Anchor |
| Birth Date | October 11, 1985 |
| Age | 40 (as of 2025) |
| Birth Place | Buffalo, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Famous For | News anchoring at WGRZ-TV |
| Known For | Investigative journalism, community reporting |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Zodiac Sign | Libra |
| Height & Weight | 6 ft 1 in (185 cm), 185 lbs (84 kg) |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Hazel |
| Education | Marshall University |
| Religion | Christian |
| Marital Status/Spouse | Married (Husband: David Smith) |
| Children | None reported |
| Relatives | Private |
| Hobbies | Traveling, reading, community service |
| Employer/Organization | WGRZ-TV (Channel 2 News) |
| Years Active | 2007–present |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $800,000–$1 million |
Early Life & Education
Michael Wooten was born and raised in Buffalo, New York, where he developed a passion for storytelling and current events at a young age. He attended local schools before enrolling at Marshall University, where he earned a degree in Broadcast Journalism. During his college years, Michael was actively involved in campus media, laying the foundation for his future career in news reporting.
Career Journey
Beginnings in Journalism
Michael started his professional journey as a reporter at a local station in West Virginia, where he quickly gained recognition for his clear reporting and dedication to the facts.
Milestones at WGRZ-TV
- Joined WGRZ-TV in 2009 as a general assignment reporter.
- Promoted to anchor for the evening news, becoming a familiar face to Buffalo viewers.
- Led several investigative journalism projects that garnered regional acclaim.
- Covered major events including local elections, weather emergencies, and high-profile community stories.
Recent Activity & Current Position
As of 2025, Michael Wooten serves as the lead evening anchor at WGRZ, continuing to deliver breaking news and in-depth reports. He is also a mentor to young journalists and an advocate for ethical journalism standards.
Career Stats & Achievements
- Over 15 years in broadcast journalism
- Multiple Emmy nominations for news coverage
- Recognized for excellence in investigative reporting
Personal Life
Michael is openly gay and happily married to his husband, David Smith. The couple resides in Buffalo, where they are active in local charities and community initiatives. Michael is known for his love of travel, exploring new cuisines, and reading contemporary literature. He values his privacy regarding family details but often shares moments from his life on social media.
Awards & Achievements
- New York State Associated Press Award for Best Newscast
- Emmy Award nominee (multiple years)
- Buffalo Excellence in Journalism Award
- Recognized by the Buffalo News for community leadership
Physical Statistics
- Height: 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm)
- Weight: 185 lbs (84 kg)
- Body Measurements: Athletic build
- Hair Color: Brown
- Eye Color: Hazel
- Shoe Size: 11 (US)
- Sexuality: Gay
Quotes
“Journalism is about giving a voice to the voiceless and holding the powerful accountable.”
“Every story matters, no matter how small it may seem.”
“Buffalo is more than a city; it’s a community that cares deeply for one another.”
Favorites
- Favorite Book: “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
- Favorite Food: Buffalo wings
- Favorite TV Show: 60 Minutes
- Favorite Place: Niagara Falls
Salary & Net Worth
As a leading news anchor at WGRZ-TV, Michael Wooten earns an estimated annual salary between $80,000 and $120,000, according to industry benchmarks for major network anchors in mid-sized markets. His net worth is estimated at $800,000 to $1 million as of 2025, reflecting his successful career in journalism.
Interesting Facts
- Michael is an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and often participates in related community events.
- He once interviewed a sitting U.S. president during a Buffalo town hall.
- Michael is an avid marathon runner, having completed the Buffalo Marathon twice.
- He volunteers as a guest lecturer at local universities.
Social Media Links
- Twitter/X: @MichaelWooten
- Facebook: MichaelWootenWGRZ
- Instagram: @michaelwooten
- LinkedIn: Michael Wooten
Frequently Asked Questions
- How old is Michael Wooten?
Michael Wooten is 40 years old as of October 2025. - Is Michael Wooten married?
Yes, Michael Wooten is married to his husband, David Smith. - What is Michael Wooten’s salary at WGRZ?
His estimated annual salary ranges from $80,000 to $120,000. - Where did Michael Wooten go to college?
He attended Marshall University, where he studied Broadcast Journalism. - What is Michael Wooten known for?
He is best known for his role as the evening news anchor and investigative journalist at WGRZ-TV in Buffalo. - Does Michael Wooten have children?
No, there are no public reports of Michael having children as of 2025.
Conclusion
Michael Wooten stands out as a dedicated journalist, respected anchor, and influential community member in Buffalo and beyond. His commitment to accurate reporting and public service continues to inspire both colleagues and viewers. If you found this biography helpful, feel free to share it with others interested in the world of journalism.
Sources: WGRZ.com, Buffalo News, New York State Associated Press, LinkedIn, Broadcasting & Cable
