
Chris Nakamoto: Award-Winning Journalist at Gray Television
Chris Nakamoto is an award-winning investigative reporter currently working with Gray Television’s Investigative TV team.
He previously served as the chief investigative reporter and anchor at WBRZ-TV in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he spent over 16 years.
Nakamoto has a strong passion for exposing injustice and holding the powerful accountable.
He began his career at WGNO-TV in New Orleans before relocating to Baton Rouge after Hurricane Katrina.
Nakamoto’s work has been recognized with numerous awards, including Edward R. Murrow Awards, Regional Emmys, and the National Association of Black Journalists’ Salute to Excellence Award.
His investigations have led to policy changes at the local, state, and federal levels.
Nakamoto’s reporting often focuses on issues of social justice and government accountability.
He has investigated topics such as police misconduct, wrongful convictions, and environmental pollution.
Nakamoto’s work has been praised for its in-depth reporting and its impact on the community.
He is considered to be one of the most respected investigative reporters in the country.
In his spare time, Nakamoto enjoys volunteering at community events, traveling, and working out.
Personal Life:
Chris Nakamoto is an American journalist known for his impactful investigative reporting. He was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, and he is of white ethnicity.
While his exact age and birthdate are not publicly disclosed, it is estimated that he is in his 40s.
Details about his parents and any potential siblings remain private. However, his impressive career and dedication to journalism speak volumes about his upbringing and the values he holds
Wife:
Chris Nakamoto is happily married to Jamie Landry. They have two children together: a son named Owen and a daughter named Lila Kate. The family also has two pet dogs, Pomeranians named Rocco and Reggie.
Nakamoto often shares glimpses of his family life through social media, where he highlights moments of family outings, vacations, and special occasions.
He values spending quality time with his children, engaging in activities that bring them joy and foster strong family bonds.
Despite the public nature of his career, Chris Nakamoto maintains a level of privacy about his family, ensuring that they have a sense of normalcy away from the spotlight.
His commitment to both his profession and his family showcases the balance he strives to achieve in his life.
Height, Weight:
Chris Nakamoto stands confidently at approximately 5 feet 7 inches (1.7 meters).
While his exact weight isn’t publicly disclosed, given his height and athletic build, he is estimated to weigh around 150-170 pounds (68-77 kg).
Career and Background:
Chris Nakamoto has nearly two decades of experience as a reporter in South Louisiana.
He has worked as an anchor and chief investigator at WAFB and as a national investigative reporter for InvestigateTV.
In December 2024, it was announced that he would join the WAFB 9NEWS team starting in January 2025.
WGNO-TV (New Orleans)
Chris Nakamoto launched his television career at WGNO-TV in New Orleans, Louisiana.
This initial role provided him with a solid foundation in journalism, where he learned the intricacies of news reporting, storytelling, and the technical aspects of broadcast journalism.
His early work at WGNO-TV involved covering local news stories, ranging from community events to breaking news.
This period was crucial for Nakamoto as he developed his on-camera presence and journalistic instincts.
Unfortunately, his tenure at WGNO-TV was disrupted by the devastating impact of Hurricane Katrina, which forced many to relocate, including Nakamoto and his station.
WBRZ-TV (Baton Rouge)
In June 2007, Nakamoto joined WBRZ-TV in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, a significant step in his career.
At WBRZ-TV, he took on the role of 5 pm anchor and Chief Investigative Reporter for the Investigative Unit.
His commitment to uncovering the truth and holding those in power accountable led to numerous impactful investigations.
One of his notable achievements was exposing cover-ups within the Louisiana State Police, particularly relating to the death of an unarmed Black man.
This investigation brought significant consequences, including the resignation and criminal investigation of top leaders within the organization.
His relentless pursuit of justice and his dedication to investigative journalism have earned him widespread recognition.
Chris Nakamoto has received several prestigious awards, including multiple Emmy Awards, Associated Press Awards, and a regional Edward R. Murrow Award.
These accolades highlight his exceptional skill in investigative reporting and his contribution to the field of journalism.
Gray Television (Investigative TV)
In December 2023, Nakamoto expanded his reach by joining Gray Television’s Investigative TV team.
This national investigative team provides him with a broader platform to continue his mission of uncovering corruption and injustice on a larger scale.
At Gray Television, Nakamoto collaborates with other top investigative journalists to tackle stories of national importance, bringing his expertise and passion for investigative journalism to a wider audience.
His work with Gray Television has already made a significant impact, shedding light on critical issues and prompting changes in policies and practices.
Chris Nakamoto’s move to Gray Television reflects his ongoing commitment to investigative journalism and his desire to effect positive change through his work.
Chris Nakamoto’s career journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the principles of journalism, his commitment to uncovering the truth, and his passion for making a positive impact on society.
His work has not only brought justice to many but also inspired a new generation of journalists to pursue investigative reporting with integrity and determination.
Here are Chris Nakamoto’s notable reports numbered:
- Cover-ups at Louisiana State Police: One of Nakamoto’s most significant investigations involved exposing cover-ups within the Louisiana State Police related to the death of an unarmed Black man. His reporting revealed misconduct and led to the resignation and investigation of top leaders within the organization. This story brought national attention and prompted changes in the police department’s practices.
- Juvenile Escapes and Limited Tracking: In a report titled “Unsupervised: Juvenile Escapes Plague Many Communities with Limited Tracking Nationwide,” Nakamoto investigated the issue of juvenile escapes from detention facilities and the lack of effective tracking systems. His findings highlighted the risks posed to public safety and the need for improved monitoring and accountability.
- Ghost Guns and Tracking Issues: Nakamoto also reported on the rise of ghost guns and the inconsistencies in tracking these firearms. His investigation revealed the challenges law enforcement faces in regulating and monitoring these untraceable weapons, shedding light on the potential dangers they pose to communities.
- Hospital ER Delays and Patient Risks: In a collaborative report with Emily Featherston, Nakamoto explored the dire delays at hospital emergency rooms and the long waits for ambulance crews. This investigation uncovered the risks these delays pose to patients and the strain on emergency medical services, prompting discussions on improving hospital efficiency and patient care.
- Negligent Homicide and Hit-and-Run Case: Nakamoto reported on the arrest warrant issued for former LSU football standout Kyren Lacy, who was wanted on charges of negligent homicide and felony hit-and-run following a crash that killed a 78-year-old former Marine. His coverage brought attention to the case and the legal proceedings surrounding it.
Awards and Recognitions
Chris Nakamoto has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout his career, highlighting his exceptional contributions to investigative journalism:
- Emmy Awards: Nakamoto has been honored with multiple Emmy Awards for his outstanding reporting and investigative work.
- Associated Press Awards: He has received several first-place awards and the prestigious title of Reporter of the Year from the Associated Press.
- Regional Edward R. Murrow Award: Nakamoto has been recognized with a regional Edward R. Murrow Award for his excellence in journalism.
- Alfred I. duPont Columbia Award: In 2023, he was awarded the Alfred I. duPont Columbia Award, one of the highest honors in broadcast journalism, for his reporting on the Louisiana State Police cover-ups.
- Greater Baton Rouge Business Report “Top 40 under 40”: In 2012, Nakamoto was selected as one of the “Top 40 under 40” by the Greater Baton Rouge Business Report for making a significant difference in the Capital Region.
Chris Nakamoto has worked with many talented colleagues throughout his career at WBRZ-TV and WAFB. Here are some notable colleagues from each station:
WBRZ-TV (Baton Rouge)
- Tisha Powell: Tisha Powell is a well-known anchor at WBRZ-TV. She has been a prominent figure in Baton Rouge news and has worked closely with Nakamoto on various news segments.
- Joe Sciortino: Joe Sciortino is the General Manager at WBRZ-TV. He has been instrumental in supporting Nakamoto’s investigative work and fostering a culture of excellence at the station.
- Robb Hays: Robb Hays, the News Director at WBRZ-TV, has been a strong advocate for investigative journalism and has worked closely with Nakamoto to bring impactful stories to light.
WAFB (Baton Rouge)
- Tisha Powell: Tisha Powell continues to be a key colleague at WAFB, where she serves as a co-anchor alongside Nakamoto.
- Joe Sciortino: Joe Sciortino remains a significant figure at WAFB, continuing his role as General Manager and supporting Nakamoto in his new position.
- Robb Hays: Robb Hays continues his role as News Director at WAFB, working closely with Nakamoto to maintain the station’s legacy of excellence in journalism.
These colleagues have played crucial roles in Nakamoto’s career, providing support, collaboration, and a shared commitment to investigative journalism.
Net Worth and Salary:
Chris Nakamoto’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $5 million, reflecting his successful career as a dedicated journalist and investigative reporter.
Over the years, his tenacity and commitment to uncovering the truth have earned him numerous accolades and recognition, contributing to his financial success.
Regarding his salary, as an esteemed investigative reporter and anchor, Chris Nakamoto’s annual earnings range from $60,000 to $120,000.
This range takes into account his extensive experience, the critical nature of his work, and the market demand for top-tier investigative journalism.
His salary is a testament to the value placed on his investigative skills and his ability to bring impactful stories to light.
Nakamoto’s financial success is not just a reflection of his earnings but also his dedication to the craft of journalism.
His work has made significant impacts on the community, earning him respect and admiration from both peers and the public.
Is Chris Nakamoto Married?
Yes, Chris Nakamoto is married. He is happily married to Jamie Landry.
The couple tied the knot on April 16th, 2010. They have two children together: a son named Owen and a daughter named Lila Kate.
Chris and Jamie share a strong bond and often enjoy spending quality time together as a family.
How Old Is Chris Nakamoto?
Chris Nakamoto has not publicly disclosed his exact birthdate, so his precise age is unknown. However, based on available information and his career timeline, it’s estimated that he is in his 40s.
Where Is Chris Nakamoto Working At?
Chris Nakamoto is currently working at WAFB-TV in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he serves as the Chief Investigative Reporter and Co-anchor of the 5 p.m. news.
Additionally, he continues to contribute to InvestigateTV, the investigative arm of WAFB’s parent company, Gray Media.
Chris Nakamoto is indeed active on social media, where he engages with his audience and shares insights into his professional and personal life. Here are the platforms where you can find him:
- Facebook: Chris uses Facebook to post updates on his investigative work, share news stories, and interact with the community.
- Twitter: On Twitter, he tweets about current events, investigative reports, and provides quick updates on breaking news.
- Instagram: Chris shares glimpses of his life beyond journalism, including personal moments and behind-the-scenes looks at his work.
Feel free to follow him to stay updated on his latest reports and personal insights!
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.