Matt Austin Biography: Award-Winning News 6 Anchor & Impactful Journalism
Matt Austin is an American Emmy Award-winning news anchor working for News 6 WKMG in Orlando, Florida.
He joined the station in June 2011 and currently anchors the 4 PM, 5 PM, 6 PM, and 11 PM newscasts from Monday to Friday.
Over the years, he has reported on some of the most significant court cases in Florida, including the Casey Anthony and George Zimmerman trials.
He has also reported on numerous hurricanes and other significant events that have impacted the region.
In 2019, Matt’s reporting played a key role in changing Florida law regarding texting while driving.
His three-year investigation into the issue earned him the Service to America Award from the National Association of Broadcasters.
Matt is known for his relatable approach to news reporting. He strives to provide viewers with reliable and informative news coverage.
In addition to his anchoring duties, Matt also hosts the “Florida’s Fourth Estate Podcast” which is available on News 6+.
He also has a segment called “I-4 Food Tour” where he explores different restaurants in Central Florida.
He graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Communication and Media Studies in August 2004.
Before joining WKMG, he worked for Sinclair Broadcast Group as a morning anchor and at KIFI as a morning anchor.
Age:
Matt Austin is 42 years old, born on March 21, 1983. His zodiac sign is Aries. He is of White ethnicity and holds American nationality.
Wife:
Matt Austin is married to his lovely wife, Tricia. They tied the knot on May 1, 2004, and have been together ever since.
Tricia is a supportive partner, and Matt often shares pictures of her on his Instagram page, celebrating their life together.
The couple is blessed with three daughters: Addi, Sawyer, and Lulu. Addi was born on September 2, 2005, and Lulu was born on March 28, 2008.
Matt frequently posts about his daughters on social media, expressing his love and pride for them.
He enjoys spending quality time with his family and often mentions how they motivate him to ensure Central Florida is safe and informed.
Height, Weight:
Matt Austin stands at a height of 6 feet 0 inches (183 cm) and weighs approximately 180 pounds (82 kg).
He maintains a healthy and fit lifestyle, which is evident from his appearance on television.
Career and Background:
Matt Austin began his journalism career as a reporter and anchor at KFBB News in Great Falls, Montana.
This early experience allowed him to develop his skills in reporting and anchoring.
He then moved to KRTV News, also in Great Falls, where he continued to build his career as a reporter and anchor.
After his time in Montana, Matt joined WFFF FOX44 & WVNY ABC 22 in Burlington, Vermont, where he worked as a news reporter.
His career continued to progress as he moved to WVIT Channel 30 in Connecticut, serving as a general assignment reporter.
In December 2006, Matt joined Sinclair Broadcast Group as a morning anchor, where he worked until June 2011. His experience at Sinclair Broadcast Group further solidified his reputation as a skilled journalist.
In June 2011, Matt joined News 6 WKMG in Orlando, Florida. Initially, he served as a morning news co-anchor and was later promoted to evening anchor in December 2013.
At WKMG, Matt anchors the 4 PM, 5 PM, 6 PM, and 11 PM newscasts from Monday to Friday.
Throughout his career, Matt has covered some of Central Florida’s biggest stories, including significant court cases like those of George Zimmerman and Casey Anthony.
His reporting has led to changes in Florida law, such as the 2019 law that allows law enforcement to pull over texting drivers.
His dedication to journalism has earned him recognition and awards, including the Service to America award by the National Association of Broadcasters.
Notable coverage
Matt Austin has covered several significant stories throughout his career, making a notable impact in the field of journalism. Some of his most notable coverage includes:
- George Zimmerman Trial: Matt Austin reported extensively on the trial of George Zimmerman, who was charged with the shooting death of Trayvon Martin. His coverage provided in-depth analysis and updates on the case, which garnered national attention.
- Casey Anthony Trial: Matt also covered the high-profile trial of Casey Anthony, who was accused of murdering her daughter, Caylee Anthony. His reporting on this case was comprehensive, offering viewers detailed insights into the proceedings and the public’s reaction.
- Texting While Driving Law: Matt’s investigative reporting played a crucial role in changing Florida law in 2019. His efforts highlighted the dangers of texting while driving, leading to the implementation of a law that allows law enforcement to pull over texting drivers.
- Hurricane Coverage: Matt has covered numerous hurricanes that have impacted Central Florida, providing critical information and updates to keep the community safe during these natural disasters.
- COVID-19 Pandemic: During the COVID-19 pandemic, Matt reported on the latest developments, safety guidelines, and the impact of the virus on the local community. His coverage helped keep viewers informed and aware of the evolving situation.
- Hands-Free Driving Law Advocacy: Matt has been an advocate for hands-free driving laws in Florida. His reporting and advocacy efforts have aimed to reduce distracted driving and improve road safety.
Awards and Recognitions
Matt Austin has received several awards and recognitions throughout his career, highlighting his dedication to journalism and his impactful reporting. Some of his notable awards and recognitions include:
- Emmy Award: Matt Austin is an Emmy Award-winning anchor, recognized for his excellence in news broadcasting.
- Service to America Award: He received the Service to America award by the National Association of Broadcasters for his investigative reporting that led to changes in Florida law, specifically the 2019 law allowing law enforcement to pull over texting drivers.
- Edward R. Murrow Award: Matt has been honored with the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award for his outstanding achievements in electronic journalism.
- Associated Press Awards: Throughout his career, Matt has received multiple Associated Press Awards for his exceptional reporting and anchoring.
Matt Austin works alongside a talented team at News 6 WKMG. Some of his notable colleagues include:
- Lisa Bell: Lisa is an evening anchor at News 6 WKMG, co-anchoring the 4 PM, 5 PM, 6 PM, and 11 PM newscasts with Matt Austin. She has been with the station since 2014 and is known for her engaging reporting style.
- Troy Bridges: Troy is a meteorologist at News 6 WKMG. He provides weather forecasts for the station’s morning and noon newscasts. Troy has been with the station since 2010 and is known for his expertise in meteorology.
- Ginger Gadsden: Ginger is a morning anchor at News 6 WKMG. She joined the station in 2014 and has a wealth of experience in journalism, having worked in various markets across the country.
- Julie Broughton: Julie is a meteorologist at News 6 WKMG. She provides weather updates and forecasts for the station’s newscasts. Julie has been with the station since 2010 and is known for her accurate and reliable weather reporting.
- Erik von Ancken: Erik is an investigative reporter and anchor at News 6 WKMG. He has been with the station since 2003 and is known for his in-depth investigative reports that have made a significant impact on the community.
These are just a few of the talented professionals Matt Austin works with at News 6 WKMG. Together, they strive to deliver high-quality news and information to the Central Florida community.
Net Worth and Salary:
Matt Austin has built a successful career in journalism, which has contributed to his financial stability. His estimated net worth is between $1 million and $5 million.
This wealth has been accumulated through his extensive career as a news anchor and reporter.
Regarding his salary, Matt Austin earns an annual income ranging from $45,000 to $110,500. This salary reflects his experience, skills, and the significant role he plays at News 6 WKMG.
Is Matt Austin Married?
Yes, Matt Austin is married to his wife, Tricia, and they have three daughters: Addi, Sawyer, and Lulu.
How Old Is Matt Austin?
Matt Austin is 42 years old. He was born on March 21, 1983.
Where Is Matt Austin Working?
Matt Austin is currently working as an evening anchor at News 6 WKMG in Orlando, Florida.
He anchors the 4 PM, 5 PM, 6 PM, and 11 PM newscasts from Monday to Friday.
Matt has been with WKMG since June 2011 and has become a prominent figure in Central Florida journalism.
Matt Austin is active on social media. He maintains an active presence on platforms like Twitter and Facebook, where he engages with his audience and shares updates related to his work, personal life, and community events.
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