Micah Materre is a familiar and respected face in Chicago television news. Known for her composed delivery, warm demeanor, and decades-long career at WGN-TV, she has become synonymous with professionalism and trustworthiness.
Readers curious about Micah Materre age often want a broader understanding of her life—family, career, personal milestones, net worth, height, and the qualities that make her unique in journalism.
Unlike many public figures, Micah avoids controversy and remains grounded. Her reputation is built on consistency, community engagement, and credibility.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Micah Materre |
| Date of Birth | November 9, 1962 |
| Age | 63 years (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Journalist & News Anchor |
| Known For | WGN-TV Evening News |
| Husband | Kelvin Jackson |
| Children | Louis Jackson & McKenzie Jackson |
| Height | ~5′6″–5′7″ |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1M–$5M |
| Education | Drake University; Northwestern coursework |
Age and Background
Micah Materre was born on November 9, 1962, in Chicago, Illinois. She is 63 years old as of 2026 and will celebrate her 64th birthday on November 9, 2026. Her age reflects decades of experience, yet she maintains the same poise and professionalism viewers have trusted for years.
Growing up in Chicago helped shape her approach to journalism. She developed an authentic understanding of the city’s neighborhoods, culture, and people—a perspective that continues to inform her reporting.
Family and Early Life
Micah comes from a family with strong Chicago roots. Her father, Louis Materre, was a South Side businessman, known for the family’s paint and wallpaper business and later working in insurance. He was a respected community figure.
Her mother, Vera Jeanne Materre, was a teacher, school administrator, and former jazz singer. She passed away on January 1, 2026, at age 95. Micah credits her parents for instilling values of hard work, education, and public service.
This upbringing helped her remain humble and grounded despite her high-profile career.
Education
Micah earned her journalism degree from Drake University in the early 1980s and took graduate coursework at Northwestern University. Her academic training provided a strong foundation, but her real-world experience in various newsrooms shaped her professional expertise.
Career Beginnings
Micah began her career at WBEZ, Chicago’s public radio station, working as a producer and reporter. Radio sharpened her skills in writing, structuring stories, and meeting deadlines. These skills were crucial as she transitioned to television.
She faced typical early-career challenges, including rejections and tape submissions, but persistence helped her move into larger markets.
Television Journey
Before WGN-TV, Micah reported in smaller markets, including Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Detroit, where she worked at Fox 2 News. Smaller markets taught her versatility—reporting, anchoring, shooting, and editing stories herself.
Returning to Chicago placed her in a major media hub and allowed her to connect deeply with her hometown audience.
WGN-TV Career
Micah joined WGN-TV in January 1998 as a morning co-anchor and medical reporter. Over the years, she became a leading anchor for midday and evening news broadcasts.
Her longevity at WGN is notable in an industry where career turnover is high. Maintaining trust, credibility, and adaptability over decades sets her apart.
Career Highlights
Her career highlights include covering national events, such as Barack Obama’s first presidential inauguration, and earning Emmy-related recognitions. Beyond awards, her key accomplishment remains the strong bond with viewers built over decades.
Husband and Family
Micah is married to Kelvin Jackson, a television videographer/editor, since June 1995. The couple has two children: Louis Jackson and McKenzie Jackson. She balances a demanding broadcast schedule with family life, which resonates with many working parents.
Appearance and Height
Micah is listed at around 5 feet 6 inches to 5 feet 7 inches tall. Her on-screen presence is polished and professional, reflecting her credibility and confidence as a journalist.
Net Worth
Estimates place Micah’s net worth between $1 million and $5 million, mainly from her television career. While not officially disclosed, these figures reflect her decades of experience in a top media market.
Lifestyle and Social Media
Micah’s lifestyle is family-oriented and community-focused rather than flashy. She engages in civic programs, mentoring, and professional organizations. Her social media presence, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X/Twitter, aligns with her professional persona, sharing updates about her work and community events.
What Makes Her Stand Out
Micah’s combination of longevity, credibility, authenticity, and personal warmth makes her stand out. She is deeply connected to Chicago, understands the city, and reports with integrity. Her perseverance and dedication have helped her navigate the challenges of journalism while maintaining viewer trust.
Community Engagement
Beyond the newsroom, Micah contributes to public affairs discussions and community programs, highlighting issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. Her work reflects journalism as a service, not just a profession.
Fun Facts
- She began in radio before moving to television.
- She is a Chicago native who returned to the city to advance her career.
- She carefully balanced family life and career decisions.
- She has worked in Iowa, Detroit, and Chicago.
- Over two decades at WGN-TV is a major achievement in local broadcasting.
Conclusion
Micah Materre exemplifies dedication, professionalism, and community connection. Her age is only a number compared to the impact she has had on Chicago journalism. From her early radio days to her decades at WGN-TV, she remains a trusted voice whose career reflects resilience, values, and commitment.
FAQs
How old is Micah Materre?
Micah Materre is 63 years old as of 2026. She was born on November 9, 1962, in Chicago, Illinois.
What is Micah Materre known for?
Micah Materre is best known as a respected journalist and news anchor at WGN-TV Chicago. She has built a strong reputation through years of trusted reporting.
Is Micah Materre married?
Yes, Micah Materre is married to Kelvin Jackson. The couple has kept much of their personal life private while raising their family.
Does Micah Materre have children?
Yes, Micah Materre has two children, a son named Louis Jackson and a daughter named McKenzie Jackson.
What is Micah Materre’s net worth?
Micah Materre’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million to $5 million. This figure is based on online estimates and has not been officially confirmed.
