Ed Harding Biography: Age, Wife, Career & More

Ed Harding Biography: Veteran Journalist and Anchor at WCVB Channel 5

Ed Harding is a highly respected veteran journalist and anchor at WCVB Channel 5, the ABC affiliate in Boston, Massachusetts.

He is a familiar face to viewers in the New England area, known for his extensive experience and dedication to local news.

Career at WCVB Channel 5:

Ed Harding has been a significant presence at WCVB for over 25 years. He initially joined the station in 1988 as a weekend sports anchor and reporter.

His career at WCVB evolved, and in 2000, he transitioned to news, taking on the role of co-anchor for the “EyeOpener” morning newscast.

Later, he also became a co-anchor for the station’s evening newscasts, sometimes pulling double duty by anchoring both morning and late-night shows.

He has co-anchored the 6 p.m. newscasts and is also known for co-hosting “On the Record,” a program focusing on local political issues, alongside Janet Wu.

Prior Experience:

Before his tenure at WCVB, Harding gained experience in the Midwest. He served as sports director and principal sports anchor for WISH-TV, the CBS affiliate in Indianapolis.

During his time there, he received two Indiana Associated Press awards and was recognized as “Best TV Sportscaster” by Indianapolis Magazine.

Awards and Recognition: Throughout his distinguished career, Ed Harding has received numerous accolades, including:

Two Boston/New England Emmy Awards for “Best Anchor-News.”

A first-place Massachusetts Broadcasters Association Sound Bites award for “On-Air Personality.”

He was also chosen to emcee the 2018 New England First Amendment Awards luncheon, an event honoring individuals who advocate for the First Amendment and the public’s right to know.

Age

Ed Harding was born on December 11, 1953, making him 71 years old (as of 2025). His zodiac sign is Sagittarius. He is of Caucasian ethnicity and holds American nationality.

Parents and Siblings

Ed Harding, a well-known anchor at WCVB, was born to his parents, Laura Harding and Robert J. Harding.

His father was the vice president and partner of Alpha Associates of Minneapolis, a management consulting firm in Newton, Massachusetts. Ed grew up in Newton, Massachusetts, alongside his two sisters, Evelyn and Eleanor.

Wife

Ed Harding is married to his longtime wife, Andrea Harding. The couple has been together for over two decades and has two children: a son named Adam Harding and a daughter named Caitlin Harding.

Andrea Harding: While there isn’t much public information about Andrea, she has been a supportive partner to Ed throughout his career.

Adam Harding: Adam is an Emmy Award-winning journalist who works as a news reporter for NBC 4 New York. He has followed in his father’s footsteps and has built a successful career in journalism.

Caitlin Harding: Caitlin has worked as a teacher in Hudson and Needham.

Ed’s family has been a significant part of his life, and he often shares moments and achievements of his children on social media.

Ed Harding Daughter Charged

Ed Harding’s daughter, Caitlin Harding, has faced serious legal issues.

She was charged with multiple counts of aggravated child rape, rape of a child with force, and indecent assault and battery.

The allegations date back to 2010 when she was a teacher at a middle school in Hudson, Massachusetts.

In 2024, her trial ended with a hung jury, meaning the jurors could not reach a unanimous verdict. Prosecutors now have 30 days to decide whether to retry the case.

Height, Weight

Ed Harding stands at approximately 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) tall. His weight is estimated to be around 78 kg (172 lbs). These figures, however, are approximations as he keeps his personal details fairly private.

Career and Background

Ed Harding has had a distinguished career at WCVB Channel 5 in Boston. He joined the station in 1988 as a weekend sports anchor and reporter.

Over the years, he has taken on various roles, including co-anchoring the EyeOpener newscast starting in 2000 and the 11 PM newscast in 2004.

In January 2016, Ed helped launch WCVB’s NewsCenter 5 at 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM. He currently co-anchors NewsCenter 5 at 4:00, 6:00, 7:00, and 11:00 PM.

Throughout his career, Ed has received numerous awards, including three Boston/New England Emmy awards for best Anchor-News and two first-place Massachusetts Broadcasters Association Sound Bites awards for On-Air Personality.

Before joining WCVB, Ed was the sports director and principal sports anchor for WISH-TV in Indianapolis, where he anchored and produced the 6 PM and 11 PM sportscasts.

He also worked at WDSU-TV in New Orleans and KMSP-TV in Minneapolis.

Early Beginnings

Minnesota & Plattsburgh, New York: In the early 1970s, Harding began his career as a reporter in Minnesota and Plattsburgh, New York. These formative roles allowed him to develop a strong foundation in journalism, covering local news and honing his reporting skills in diverse environments.

The New Orleans Chapter

WDSU (1978–1981): From 1978 to 1981, Harding worked at WDSU in New Orleans. During this period, he immersed himself in the fast-paced dynamics of a major television market. His work here not only sharpened his reporting acumen but also expanded his ability to connect with audiences during pivotal local events.

Mid-Career Developments

WISH-TV in Indianapolis (Early to Mid‑1980s): Moving into the early to mid‑1980s, Harding joined Indianapolis’ WISH-TV. At this station, he served as a reporter and sports anchor. Notably, he also hosted programming linked to the Indianapolis Colts, an experience that further broadened his expertise in sports journalism while demonstrating his versatile on-air presence.
Work in Detroit: During a similar timeframe, Harding also worked in Detroit. Although details about the specific station are limited, his stint in Detroit contributed to his expanding portfolio, showcasing his adaptability and breadth as a journalist in different regional media markets.

Establishing a Legacy in Boston

WCVB-TV (1988–Present): A major turning point in Harding’s career came in 1988 when he joined WCVB-TV in Boston. Initially, he began as a weekend sports anchor and the host of a unique Candlepin bowling segment—an early indicator of his ability to engage audiences with diverse subject matter.
- Transition to News Anchoring: Within just a couple of years, his undeniable charisma and journalistic integrity propelled him into new challenges. He took on the role as the host of the popular “EyeOpener” morning program, which resonated with viewers and showcased his engaging style.
- Prime-Time Leadership: In March 2007, Harding assumed co-anchorship of the prime-time newscasts alongside Natalie Jacobson, marking his evolution into a mainstay of Boston’s evening news. His reputation as a reliable and respected journalist was further solidified with this transition.
- Venturing into Political Reporting: Expanding his repertoire even further, in October 2009 he was appointed co-moderator for WCVB-TV’s Sunday morning political program, On The Record. This role highlighted his aptitude for tackling the intricate world of political journalism and engaging in insightful discussions on local and national affairs.

Ed Harding has covered numerous memorable stories throughout his career. Here are a few highlights:

2007 World Series: One of Ed’s most memorable assignments was covering the Boston Red Sox’s victory in the 2007 World Series. He had the unique opportunity to share the field with the team after they won.

Boston Marathon Bombing: Ed was part of the extensive coverage of the tragic Boston Marathon bombing in 2013. His reporting during this critical event was highly regarded.

Presidential Elections: Over the years, Ed has covered multiple presidential elections, providing in-depth analysis and live updates during these significant political events.

Local Stories: Ed has also reported on numerous impactful local stories, from severe weather events to community issues, always bringing a compassionate and thorough approach to his journalism.

Ed Harding has been recognized with several prestigious Emmy awards throughout his career.

Specifically, he has won three Boston/New England Emmy awards for Best Anchor-News.

These awards highlight his excellence in news anchoring and his significant contributions to broadcast journalism.

The Emmy awards are a testament to his skill, dedication, and the high regard in which he is held by his peers in the industry.

Winning multiple Emmy awards is a notable achievement and reflects his commitment to delivering quality news to his audience.

Ed Harding works alongside a talented team of journalists and anchors at WCVB Channel 5 in Boston. Some of his notable colleagues include:

Maria Stephanos – Co-anchors NewsCenter 5 with Harding at 4 PM, 6 PM, 7 PM, and 11 PM.
Ben Simmoneau – Anchor and investigative journalist.
Jessica Brown – Co-anchor of NewsCenter 5 at Noon and 4 PM.
Doug Meehan – Co-anchor of the EyeOpener newscast.
Antoinette Antonio – Co-anchor of the EyeOpener alongside Doug Meehan.
Harvey Leonard – Longtime meteorologist and weather expert.
Mike Wankum – Chief meteorologist at WCVB.
Natalie Jacobson – Former WCVB anchor who worked alongside Harding in prime-time newscasts.
Jorge Quiroga – Veteran reporter who contributed to WCVB’s investigative journalism.
Pam Cross – Former anchor and reporter at WCVB.

Harding has been a key figure in Boston journalism for decades, collaborating with some of the most respected names in the industry.

Net Worth and Salary

Maria Stephanos, a seasoned journalist and anchor at WCVB Channel 5, has built a successful career in broadcast journalism. Her financial standing reflects her extensive experience and contributions to the industry.

Net Worth & Salary

Estimated Net Worth: Approximately $1 million to $1.5 million.
Annual Salary: Ranges between $40,000 and $98,500, depending on tenure and contract specifics.

Stephanos has been a prominent figure in New England journalism for over 30 years, covering major events and delivering trusted news. Her earnings are a testament to her dedication and impact in the field.

Is Ed Harding Married?

Yes, Ed Harding is married to Andrea Harding, and they have a strong relationship built on years of mutual respect and support. They have two children, including Adam Harding, who also works in the field of journalism.

How Old Is Ed Harding?

Ed Harding is 71 years old, having been born on December 11, 1953.

Where Is Ed Harding Working?

Ed Harding is still working at WCVB-TV. He continues to co-anchor the news at 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, and 11:00 PM.

Ed has been a prominent figure at WCVB for over 25 years, bringing his extensive experience and dedication to the station.

He continues to co-anchor the station’s primary evening newscasts and is considered one of the key figures in Boston’s news landscape.

Ed Harding is active on social media, particularly on Twitter and Facebook. You can follow him on Twitter under the handle @EdWCVB for updates and insights from his work at WCVB.

Boston has several well-known news anchors across different networks. Here are a few popular ones:

WCVB Channel 5

Antoinette Antonio: Anchor
Jessica Brown: Anchor/Reporter
Shaun Chaiyabhat: Weekend Evening Anchor
Jennifer Eagan: Anchor/Reporter
Maria Stephanos: Anchor

NBC Boston (WBTS-TV)

Jeff Saperstone: Weekend Morning Anchor and Reporter
Leslie Gaydos: Consumer Investigative Reporter
Malcolm Johnson: General Assignment Reporter

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Ed Harding Biography: Age, Wife, Career & More | WCVB-TV