David Highfield Pittsburgh Today Live, KDKA-TV Biography
David Highfield, an esteemed American journalist, is renowned as the Emmy award-winning host of KDKA-TV’s Morning News Anchor and as the engaging face of “Pittsburgh Today Live” in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
His journalistic journey has seen him deliver impactful reports not only locally but also nationally, with his work featured on WCBS in New York and KCBS in Los Angeles. He has lent his voice to significant events like reporting on drought conditions for “CBS This Morning” and covering a train derailment for WBBM in Chicago.
Highfield’s journey in journalism began with his education at Ford City High School, culminating in a summa cum laude graduation from the Newhouse School of Communications at Syracuse University in 1993, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism.
Highfield’s illustrious career is adorned with accolades, including nine Mid-Atlantic Emmy Awards and two Regional Edward R. Murrow Awards. Recognized as the Best Reporter in Pittsburgh by readers of Pittsburgh Magazine in 2017, he is not only committed to excellence in journalism but also actively contributes to charitable causes such as the ARC of Armstrong County and The Progressive Workshop, in addition to serving on the board of Persad Center.
Age and Early Life
David Highfield was born on September 28, 1972, in Ford City, Chicago, Illinois, making him 51 years old as of 2014. Raised in Ford City by his parents, Homer Larry and Judith Gail, Highfield values his privacy when it comes to his family life.
Career And Background
- Morning News Anchor and Talk Show Host: David anchors the KDKA-TV Morning News alongside Lindsay Ward. Additionally, he co-hosts “Pittsburgh Today Live,” a popular daily lifestyle and talk show, with Heather Abraham.
- Emmy Awards and Reporting: Over his 30-year television career, David has received 12 Mid-Atlantic Emmy Awards for both hosting and reporting. His dedication and talent have been recognized by the industry.
- “Your Pittsburgh”: David created, hosted, and executive produced the Emmy award-winning evening newsmagazine called “Your Pittsburgh.” The show ran for seven years on KDKA and showcased various aspects of the city and its people.
- Journalistic Journey: David’s journey at KDKA began in 1991 as a writer. He was later promoted to a newscast producer and eventually transitioned to being in front of the camera. He served as the Westmoreland County Bureau Chief, Beaver/Butler Bureau Chief, and an 11 p.m. reporter. In 2020, he became the anchor of KDKA News at Noon.
- Notable Coverage: Throughout his career, David has covered significant news events, including visits by Pope Francis and Pope Benedict to the U.S., the 2007 shootings at Virginia Tech, the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, the tragedy at Pittsburgh’s Tree of Life synagogue in 2018, and the 9/11 attacks from both Shanksville and the Pentagon.
- Community Involvement: David actively contributes to local charities, including The KDKA-TV Turkey Fund, the PTL Toy Drive, and organizations like Animal Friends and the American Red Cross.
Personal Life
David Highfield shares his life with his spouse, Gary Kline, whom he married in October 2015. The couple resides in Lawrenceville, enjoying activities such as hosting dinner parties, playing tennis, and traveling together.
Salary and Net Worth
As an anchor at KDKA, David Highfield receives an annual salary Between $80,000 to $150,000. His dedication to journalism and community involvement has contributed to his success.
Over his two-decade career, David has amassed a decent fortune. His estimated net worth ranges from $1 million to $5 million. This wealth reflects his contributions as a reporter and anchor.
Movies Featuring David Highfield:
David Highfield played the role of a news reporter in the short film “Tommy and Me” in 2009. The film’s proceeds benefited Operation Safety Net, an organization dedicated to helping homeless individuals.
Current Status at KDKA:
David Highfield is still an integral part of KDKA-TV. He serves as the morning news anchor for “Your Day Pittsburgh” and co-hosts “Pittsburgh Today Live,” showcasing his continued dedication to delivering news and engaging with the community.
David Highfield’s Co-host:
- Heather Abraham: David Highfield’s co-host on KDKA’s morning newscast “Your Day Pittsburgh” and the daily lifestyle and talk show “Pittsburgh Today Live” is Heather Abraham. They form a dynamic duo, delivering news and entertainment to the viewers of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Recent Updates
Highfield underwent surgery in January 2022, prompting a temporary absence from his professional duties. During his recovery period, Briana Smith is filling in for him. Despite his absence from social media following his surgery, Highfield’s dedication to his work remains unwavering.
With his journalistic integrity, compassionate spirit, and commitment to excellence, David Highfield continues to inspire and inform audiences across Pittsburgh and beyond. You can follow him on Instagram.
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