Clarice Tinsley Biography: KDFW FOX 4 News Anchor & Award-Winning Reporter
Clarice Tinsley is an American broadcast journalist, well-known as a news anchor and reporter for KDFW FOX 4 in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. She is recognized as the longest-serving news anchor in that market.
Early Life and Career:
Born on December 31, 1954, in Detroit, Michigan, Tinsley’s parents encouraged her interests, leading her to pursue journalism. She graduated early from Wayne State University with a bachelor’s degree in broadcasting. Her career began in July 1975 at WITI-TV in Milwaukee, where she spent three years as a news reporter, news anchor, and host of a monthly community affairs show.
KDFW FOX 4 Tenure:
In November 1978, Tinsley moved to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex to anchor the ten o’clock news for KDFW-TV (which was a CBS station at the time and is now a Fox O&O). In 1979, her duties expanded to include the six o’clock news. As of November 13, 2023, she celebrated 45 years as a KDFW FOX 4 Reporter and Anchor of the 10 p.m. News.
Career Highlights and Awards:
Tinsley has had a distinguished career, marked by significant investigative reporting and numerous awards:
- Investigative Journalism: Her work on “A Call For Help,” an investigative series in the 1980s that exposed problems with Dallas’ 911 emergency system, earned KDFW a Peabody Award in 1984 and a 1980 Alfred I. duPont–Columbia University Award for investigative journalism.
- Interviews: She has interviewed notable figures, including President Barack Obama in the White House in 2014, where she was the first reporter to ask him about the search for Malaysian flight MH-370.
Hall of Fame and Accolades:
- In December 2020, she was inducted into the Hall of Fame of the National Association of Black Journalists.
- In November 2012, she was honored with induction into the Lone Star Emmy Chapter’s Silver Circle for her more than 25 years of excellence and contributions to television broadcasting.
- She has received multiple Emmy Awards, including for “The Fierce and Fearless” (2018) and “The Distinguished Professor” (2017).
- Other notable awards include the Director’s Community Leadership Award from the FBI (2007), the Ann Williams Award from the Dallas Black Dance Theatre (2016), the Dallas Historical Society Award of Excellence for Outstanding Contributions in the Creative Arts (2009), the Asante Award from the Dallas Fort Worth Association of Black Journalists (2011), and the Mary McLeod Bethune Award from the National Council of Negro Women (2009).
- Community Involvement:
Tinsley is also known for her “Hometown Heroes” series, which highlights volunteers and individuals making positive contributions to the community. In 2017, the State Fair of Texas announced the creation of the Clarice Tinsley Journalism Scholarship in her honor.
- Acting Appearances: She has appeared as a news anchor or reporter in several Dallas-based television productions, including The Good Guys, Prison Break, Walker, Texas Ranger, and Dallas.
Age:
Clarice Tinsley was born on December 31, 1954, making her 70 years old. Her Zodiac sign is Capricorn. She holds American nationality and belongs to the Afro-American ethnicity.
Parents and Siblings:
Clarice Tinsley was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, to her parents Janet Tinsley and Clarence Tinsley.
Her mother, Janet, was a professor, teaching second and third-grade students in Detroit Public Schools. Her father, Clarence, worked in the street paving division and sadly passed away in 1996.
Regarding siblings, there is no publicly available information confirming whether she has any.
Tinsley pursued her education at Beaubien Junior High School and Samuel C. Mumford High School, later earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Radio, Television, and Film from Wayne State University.
Husband:
Clarice Tinsley has been married to Stephen Giles since April 19, 1987. Giles is an executive producer known for his work on America Close Up on the American Life Network.
Regarding children, Tinsley had a stepson named Steve, whom she met when he was five years old.
Clarice Tinsley Son Passed Away
Clarice Tinsley announced the heartbreaking passing of her stepson, Steve, who died at the age of 44 due to complications from type 1 diabetes.
She shared that she met Steve when he was five years old, and he called her “Mom,” which she described as the “best name in the world”.
Steve was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of 13 and attended Camp Sweeney, a camp dedicated to children managing the condition.
He was married to Nohemi, and despite his health struggles, they shared a loving and supportive relationship.
Tinsley expressed deep sorrow over his passing, highlighting his kindness and the joy he brought to those around him.
Donations in his memory have been directed toward Camp Sweeney, helping other children with type 1 diabetes.
Height:
Clarice Tinsley is approximately 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters) tall and weighs around 58-63 kg (128-139 lbs).
Her estimated measurements are 34-26-35 inches, with dark brown eyes and brown hair.
Career and Background:
Clarice began her broadcasting career at WITI-TV in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she worked from 1974 to 1978 as a news reporter and anchor.
In November 1978, she joined KDFW-TV in Dallas-Fort Worth as the ten o’clock news anchor. By 1979, she also took on the six o’clock news.
Over the years, she has become a respected figure in journalism, known for her investigative reporting.
Early Career at WITI TV 6 (1974–1978)
Tinsley began her journalism career at WITI TV 6 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she worked as a news reporter, anchor, and host of a monthly community affairs show.
During her time at WITI, she honed her investigative journalism skills, covering local stories that impacted the community.
Her ability to present compelling narratives and uncover critical issues set the foundation for her future success.
Transition to KDFW FOX4 (1978–Present)
In November 1978, Tinsley moved to Dallas/Fort Worth to anchor the ten o’clock news for KDFW-TV, which was a CBS affiliate at the time.
Her professionalism and strong presence quickly made her a household name in Texas. In 1979, she expanded her role to include anchoring the six o’clock news, further solidifying her influence in the industry.
When KDFW transitioned to a FOX-owned station in 1995, Tinsley remained a key anchor, adapting to the evolving landscape of broadcast journalism.
Over the years, she has covered major national and international stories, including presidential elections, local investigations, and national tragedies.
Investigative Journalism & Major Achievements
Tinsley gained national recognition for her investigative reporting, particularly her groundbreaking series “A Call for Help”, which exposed critical flaws in Dallas’ 911 emergency system.
This work earned her the prestigious George Foster Peabody Award (1984) and the Alfred I. duPont–Columbia University Award (1980), cementing her reputation as a fearless journalist.
Her dedication to investigative journalism has led to numerous other awards, including multiple Emmy Awards and her induction into the National Association of Black Journalists Hall of Fame (2020).
Clarice Tinsley has worked alongside many respected journalists at KDFW FOX4 throughout her career. Some of her notable colleagues include:
- Steve Eagar – A longtime anchor at FOX4, known for his sharp reporting and engaging delivery.
- Heather Hays – Co-anchor and reporter, recognized for her insightful coverage of major news events.
- Dan Godwin – A seasoned journalist who has contributed to FOX4’s investigative and general news reporting.
- Shaun Rabb – A respected reporter covering crime and community stories in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.
- Evan Andrews – A meteorologist at FOX4, providing weather updates and forecasts.
These journalists have worked alongside Tinsley, contributing to the station’s reputation for delivering high-quality news coverage.
Net Worth and Salary:
Clarice Tinsley has built a successful career in broadcast journalism, contributing to her financial stability.
Her estimated net worth is around $875,689, reflecting her decades of experience and achievements in the industry.
She earns an annual salary of approximately $84,419 as a news anchor at KDFW FOX4. These figures may vary based on contracts, endorsements, and other professional engagements.
Is Clarice Tinsley Married?
Yes, Clarice Tinsley is married to Stephen Giles, an executive producer known for his work on America Close Up on the American Life Network.
The couple tied the knot on April 19, 1987, and have shared a long and supportive partnership ever since.
Who pushed Clarice Tinsley in the pool?
Clarice Tinsley was pushed into a swimming pool by Kevin McCarthy, a former KDFW-TV sportscaster and radio personality.
The incident occurred at a Channel 4 function, and while it was intended as a joke, it led to McCarthy being fired from the station.
How long has Clarice Tinsley been with Fox 4?
Clarice Tinsley has been with KDFW FOX4 since November 1978, making her tenure over 46 years. She is one of the longest-serving news anchors in the Dallas/Fort Worth market.
What happened to Tinsley’s dad?
Clarice Tinsley’s father, Clarence Tinsley, worked in the street paving division. He passed away in 1996, but details surrounding his death are not widely documented.
How Old Is Clarice Tinsley?
Clarice Tinsley was born on December 31, 1954, making her 70 years old.
Where is Clarice Tinsley Working?
Clarice Tinsley is working at KDFW-TV (Fox 4 News) in Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas. She has been with the station since 1978 and remains a prominent figure in their newsroom.
Roles at KDFW-TV:
- News Anchor: Tinsley anchors the 5:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. newscasts, with occasional appearances on the 6 p.m. newscast, as part of KDFW’s schedule adjustments announced in July 2024.
- Reporter: She continues to contribute investigative reports and feature stories, covering significant local events such as the 15th annual Prom Closet event in Plano (2024) and hosting the 33rd Annual MLK Oratory Competition (2025).
- Producer: Tinsley has produced notable projects, including the Emmy-winning documentary The Distinguished Professor about SMU’s Barbara Hill Moore, recognized by the Lone Star Emmy Awards in 2017.
Clarice Tinsley is active on social media and maintains a presence across several platforms where she shares updates about her professional work, community involvement, and personal interests.
Social Media Profiles:
Facebook: Clarice Tinsley’s official Facebook page. She frequently posts about community events, volunteer initiatives, and personal reflections.
Instagram: On Instagram, she shares photos and videos related to her work at FOX 4, as well as glimpses into her personal life.
X (formerly Twitter): Clarice is active on X under the handle @ClariceFox4, where she posts about her professional activities, fitness routines, and community events.
Through these platforms, Clarice Tinsley continues to engage with her audience, sharing insights into her career and personal endeavors.
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