Dan Ashley Biography: Acclaimed American Journalist and Musician
Dan Ashley is an American journalist, television anchor and musician. He is best known for his work at ABC7 News in San Francisco, where he has been a prominent figure for over two decades.
Early Life and Education
Dan Ashley was born in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. He graduated from the University of North Carolina in 1985 with degrees in English and Speech Communication.
Journalism Career
Dan Ashley has a distinguished career in broadcast journalism spanning several decades.
- Current Role: He is a long-time anchor for ABC7 News (KGO-TV) in the San Francisco Bay Area, co-anchoring the weekday 5 p.m., 6 p.m., and 11 p.m. newscasts. He is the longest-tenured main male news anchor in the history of ABC7 (KGO-TV).
- Early Career: Ashley began his journalism career in 1985 at WTVD in Durham, North Carolina, and later worked at WCBD in Charleston, South Carolina.
- Key Reporting: He has covered a wide range of significant stories, including reporting from Poland on the March of the Living with Bay Area Holocaust survivors, the aftermath of Hurricane Hugo in Charleston (where he was the last broadcaster on air), presidential campaigns, and papal visits. He has also conducted notable interviews with figures like President Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and General Colin Powell.
- Awards and Recognition: Ashley is a highly awarded journalist. His accolades include the prestigious DuPont Columbia and Edward R. Murrow Awards, numerous Emmy Awards for his reporting, anchoring, and producing, and a National Emmy Nomination. In 2015, he was inducted into the Silver Circle of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences San Francisco/Northern California Chapter.
- Educational Background: He graduated from the University of North Carolina in 1985 with degrees in English and Speech Communication.
Music Career
Alongside his journalism, Dan Ashley has cultivated a strong passion for music, performing as a singer/songwriter.
- Musical Style: He leads his own Americana/Rock band, known for its unique blend of Americana, rock, and country. His music often incorporates storytelling, drawing on universal themes of joy, heartbreak, love, and loss.
- Performances: Ashley and his band have headlined various venues and opened for renowned artists such as REO Speedwagon, Cheap Trick, Eddie Money, Night Ranger, Melissa Etheridge, Patti LaBelle, Rick Springfield, and Joan Jett and the Blackhearts. He has also performed the National Anthem at major sporting events for the NBA, Major League Baseball, professional hockey, and college football.
- Recordings: His album “Out There” has received positive reviews and appeared on college charts, with radio play across the United States and Europe. He has also released Christmas music, “My Favorite Time of Year.” His recent singles include “Small Town Nights” and “Outside Looking In.”
- Collaborations: He has collaborated with notable musicians and producers, including Bill Bentley.
Philanthropy
Dan Ashley is also actively involved in philanthropy, serving on the boards of several charitable organizations.
He is particularly dedicated to supporting youth programs, including Friends of Camp Concord (FOCC) and Music In Schools Today (MUST). He also hosts “Dan Ashley’s Rock The CASA,” an annual benefit concert.
In essence, Dan Ashley is a multifaceted individual who has achieved significant success and recognition in both the demanding fields of journalism and music, while also committing his time to various philanthropic endeavors.
Age
Dan Ashley was born on August 29, 1963, which makes him 61 years old. His zodiac sign is Virgo.
He is American by nationality and his ethnicity is Caucasian, as he was born in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.
Wife
Dan Ashley married Angela in 2021. Angela is an attorney, and they share a passion for music, with Angela even performing as a backup singer in Dan’s band.
They enjoy spending their downtime together, often recharging with simple activities like having a pizza and watching a movie.
Dan and Spalding Ashley divorce
Yes, Dan Ashley and Spalding Rooker Ashley went through a divorce. The divorce proceedings were filed on June 4, 2018, in the Contra Costa County Superior Courts in California.
The case was overseen by Judge Danielle K. Douglas and was disposed of with a judgment entered on June 21, 2018. The marital status ended on December 31, 2018.
Height
Dan Ashley stands at a height of 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm) and weighs an estimated 185 to 200 pounds (84–91 kg).
Career and Background
Dan Ashley has spent the majority of his broadcasting career with ABC7 News in San Francisco, where he covers both local and national news stories.
Known for his in-depth interviews and compelling storytelling, he has reported on numerous high-profile events and issues. His experience and credibility make him a trusted news anchor for Bay Area residents.
Early Career
Dan Ashley began his journalism career in 1986 at WTVD, ABC’s Durham, North Carolina TV station.
He quickly made a name for himself and moved to WCBD-TV, the ABC affiliate in Charleston, South Carolina, where he continued to build his reputation as a dedicated journalist.
Joining ABC7 (KGO-TV)
In 1995, Ashley joined ABC7 (KGO-TV) in San Francisco as the weekday 5:00 p.m. news anchor and investigative reporter.
His hard work and dedication led to a promotion the following year, where he became the anchor for the 6:00 and 11:00 p.m. broadcasts in addition to the 5:00 newscast.
Awards and RecognitionDan Ashley has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout his career, highlighting his significant contributions to journalism.
Here are Dan Ashley’s awards and recognitions numbered:
DuPont Columbia Award
- Awarded for outstanding reporting during his tenure in Charleston, South Carolina.
Edward R. Murrow Awards
- Multiple awards for investigative reporting and overall excellence in journalism.
Emmy Awards
- Several awards for reporting, anchoring, and producing.
Silver Circle of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences
- Inducted in 2015 by the San Francisco/Northern California Chapter.
National Emmy Nomination
- Received a national nomination for his reporting.
Other Recognitions
- Recognized by industry organizations such as the Associated Press, United Press International, and the Press Club of Atlantic City.
- Awards from the New Jersey and Atlanta branches of the Society of Professional Journalists and the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.
Philanthropic Contributions
- Serves on the boards of several organizations, including the Bay Area American Red Cross, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Contra Costa County, and the Commonwealth Club of California.
- Hosts an annual golf tournament fundraiser for Friends of Camp Concord and leads the Rock The CASA benefit concert.
These awards and recognitions reflect Dan Ashley’s significant contributions to journalism and his commitment to philanthropy.
Dan Ashley has worked with many talented colleagues throughout his career, especially during his time at WCBD-TV in Charleston, South Carolina, and ABC7 (KGO-TV) in San Francisco.
Here are some of his close colleagues:
- Leslie Lyles: Leslie was a lead reporter and anchor at WCBD-TV from 1987 to 1994. She and Ashley worked together on many significant stories, including Hurricane Hugo. Ashley has fond memories of working with Leslie and described their time together as “magical.”
- Rob Fowler: Rob was another colleague at WCBD-TV who worked alongside Ashley. Ashley mentioned that Rob and the rest of the team made the workplace fun and enjoyable.
- Richard Brown: Ashley replaced Richard Brown as the anchor for the 6:00 and 11:00 p.m. broadcasts at ABC7 in 1996. Richard had a long tenure at the station, and Ashley took over the role after Richard’s departure.
- Tom Brokaw: While not a direct colleague, Ashley has conducted interviews with prominent journalists like Tom Brokaw, showcasing his connections within the industry.
- Rob Reiner: Ashley has also interviewed notable figures like Rob Reiner, further highlighting his network within the journalism and entertainment fields.
Ashley’s colleagues have often praised his dedication and hard work, and he has maintained strong professional relationships with many of them over the years.
His time at WCBD-TV and ABC7 has been marked by collaboration and mutual respect with his fellow journalists.
Dan Ashley Band
Dan Ashley is not only a talented journalist but also a passionate musician. He leads his own band, which blends Americana, Rock, and Roll with a unique storytelling style.
Here’s a detailed look at his band:
Band Members
- Bill Bentley: Lead Guitar/Music Director. Bill has worked with renowned artists like Eddie Money, Starship, Beach Boys, Boz Scaggs, Huey Lewis, and many more.
- Vernon Black: Guitar/Vocals. Vernon has toured and recorded with legends like Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston, and Aretha Franklin.
- Angeline Saris: Bass. Angeline is known for her powerful and energetic bass playing.
- Billy Johnson: Drums. Billy has toured with Santana and Frankie Beverly and worked with Tower of Power.
- James Henry: Percussion. James brings dynamic energy and a modern style to the band.
- Francois Bouvet: Guitar. Francois is a French native with a background in classical music.
- Ben Flint: Keyboard. Ben is an Oakland-based pianist and composer.
- Tiffany Callier: Vocals. Tiffany is known for her inspiring performances.
- Naté Soulsanger: Vocals. Naté is a prominent urban soulstress in the Bay Area.
- Dyson Thesinger: Vocals. Dyson combines old school flavor with a new school edge.
- Simon Russell: Keyboard. Simon has performed with The James Brown Band and many other notable artists.
Musical Style
Dan Ashley’s band has a unique blend of Americana and Rock and Roll, bringing a distinctive voice and life-experience to their music.
Dan’s songs often reflect themes of joy, heartbreak, love, and loss, resonating with a wide audience.
Performances
The band has headlined great venues and opened for artists like REO Speedwagon, Cheap Trick, Eddie Money, and Melissa Etheridge.
Dan Ashley has also performed the National Anthem at various events, including NBA games, Major League Baseball games, college football games, and professional hockey games.
Albums and Songs
Dan Ashley has released several albums and singles, including “Redbud Road,” “Now and Then,” “We Stayed Home,” “Lucky Stars,” and “What Really Matters.” His music often draws from his personal experiences and storytelling abilities.
Philanthropy and Community Engagement
In addition to his music career, Dan Ashley continues to anchor the evening news at ABC7, where he has been a beloved figure for nearly three decades.
He also engages in philanthropic activities, hosting benefit concerts and fundraisers for various causes.
Net Worth and Salary
Dan Ashley’s net worth and salary have been notable throughout his career in journalism. Here’s a detailed look:
Net Worth
Dan Ashley’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $7 million. This wealth has been accumulated over his long career as a journalist, anchor, and reporter.
Salary
Ashley’s annual salary has varied over the years, but it generally ranges from $45,000 to $110,500. This salary reflects his experience and contributions to the field of journalism.
Career Earnings
Ashley has been a broadcast journalist for over 38 years, working with various news organizations.
His career earnings have been bolstered by his numerous awards and recognitions, which have further solidified his reputation and value in the industry.
Investments and Philanthropy
In addition to his salary, Ashley has made significant investments in real estate and other ventures.
He is also a dedicated philanthropist, serving on the boards of several organizations and hosting annual fundraisers.
His philanthropic efforts have contributed to his overall net worth and reputation.
Is Dan Ashley Married?
Yes, Dan Ashley is married. He and his wife have been together for over 25 years and share two children: Parker Ashley and Bennette Ashley.
While he tends to keep his family life private, it’s clear that he values both his long-standing marriage and his role as a father.
How Old Is Dan Ashley?
Dan Ashley was born on August 29, 1963, which makes him 62 years old as of now.
Where Is Dan Ashley Working?
Dan Ashley currently works at ABC7 News in San Francisco, California, where he serves as a news anchor and correspondent.
He anchors the 5:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m., and 11:00 p.m. newscasts, a role he’s held since joining the station in 1995.
In addition to anchoring, Ashley has also contributed as an investigative reporter, covering major stories both locally and internationally.
His reporting has included everything from military training at Camp Pendleton to Holocaust remembrance events in Poland.
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