Born: 1960 (Tuskegee, Alabama)
Biography:
Robin Roberts (born November 23, 1960) is an American television broadcaster who has made significant contributions to the field of journalism. She is best known as the anchor of ABC’s Good Morning America, where her warm personality and insightful reporting have endeared her to millions of viewers.
Roberts was born in Tuskegee, Alabama, but grew up in Pass Christian, Mississippi. From an early age, she showed a love for athletics and played basketball and tennis, among other sports. Her passion for sports continued throughout her life and laid the foundation for her successful career in sports broadcasting.
After graduating from Pass Christian High School in 1979 as the salutatorian, Roberts enrolled at Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond. She followed in the footsteps of her older sister, Sally-Ann Roberts, who was already an anchor at the CBS affiliate WWL-TV in New Orleans. At Southeastern, Roberts excelled both academically and athletically. She became a standout performer on the women’s basketball team and ended her career as the school’s third all-time leading scorer and rebounder. Her achievements on the court earned her a ceremony in 2011 to retire her jersey, number 21.
Roberts began her broadcasting career in 1983 as a sports anchor and reporter for WDAM-TV in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. She then moved to WLOX-TV in Biloxi, Mississippi, in 1984. Her talent and dedication to her craft quickly gained recognition, leading her to more prominent roles in the industry.
In 1986, Roberts joined ESPN as a sportscaster, where she would spend the next 15 years of her career. During her time at ESPN, she covered various sports events, including the Olympics, the NBA Finals, and the Super Bowl. Roberts’s exceptional reporting and expertise made her a beloved figure among sports fans across the country.
Roberts’s career reached new heights in 2005 when she became the co-anchor of Good Morning America. Her natural charisma and ability to connect with people made her a perfect fit for the show. As a co-anchor, Roberts has conducted numerous high-profile interviews and covered important stories, from major news events to human interest pieces. Her journalistic excellence has earned her the trust and respect of the audience.
Throughout her career, Roberts has been a trailblazer, breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings. In 2012, she made history as the first woman of color and the first openly LGBT woman to host the American TV game show Jeopardy!. Her accomplishments have not only paved the way for other women in broadcasting but have also had a significant impact on society.
Beyond her professional achievements, Roberts has faced personal struggles and challenges. In 2012, she was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome, a rare blood disorder. Roberts’s battle with the illness was chronicled on Good Morning America, and her courage and resilience inspired many. Her authentic and transparent approach to sharing her journey resonated with viewers and earned the program a Peabody Award for its coverage.
In recognition of her remarkable career and contributions to the world of sports and journalism, Roberts was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012. This well-deserved honor acknowledges her impact as a role model for aspiring journalists and athletes alike.
Roberts’s motivation and inspiration come from her parents, Lucimarian and Colonel Lawrence E. Roberts, who instilled in her the values of discipline, determination, and faith. She credits them for nurturing her success and character, often referring to the three ‘D’s as the foundation of her accomplishments.
As a prominent figure in women’s history, Robin Roberts has significantly influenced the field of journalism and broken barriers for women in broadcasting. Her talent, dedication, and commitment to her craft have made her an inspiration to aspiring journalists, athletes, and individuals facing personal struggles.
Awards:
– Inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012