Hank Winchester: WDIV-TV Consumer Investigative Reporter and Help Me Hank Host
Hank Winchester is a well-known broadcast journalist currently working as a Consumer Investigative Reporter for WDIV-TV Local 4 in Detroit, Michigan.
He is also the head of WDIV’s “Help Me Hank” Consumer Unit, which focuses on solving consumer complaints, revealing important recalls, and tracking down thieves who have ripped off people in the community.
Hank joined WDIV-TV in the early 2000s and has covered significant stories in Metro Detroit, including the scandal, conviction, and trial of former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick. He has also been featured on national shows like Dateline NBC and The Today Show.
Age:
Hank Winchester was born on January 24, 1978, which makes him 47 years old as of 2025. His zodiac sign is Aquarius.
He is of white ethnicity and was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, United States, making him American by nationality.
Parents and Siblings:
Hank Winchester was born and raised in a suburban neighborhood in Detroit, Michigan.
While specific details about his parents are not widely available, it is known that he grew up with both of his parents.
Unfortunately, there isn’t much information about his siblings either, so it’s unclear whether he has any brothers or sisters.
Partner:
Hank Winchester is married to his long-time partner, Jeff Grim. The couple had a private wedding ceremony attended by close family and friends. They live together in a neighborhood in Detroit, Michigan.
In 2018, Hank and Jeff welcomed a new member to their family when they adopted a baby girl named Emma Rose. They have been happily raising her together.
Despite their busy professional lives, Hank and Jeff prioritize family time and ensure they are present for Emma’s milestones and everyday moments.
They enjoy activities such as outdoor adventures, traveling, and spending quality time together at home.
Hank often speaks about the joy and fulfillment that Emma brings to their lives, highlighting the special bond they share as a family.
In addition to his personal life, Hank’s professional achievements have been a significant part of his story.
His dedication to consumer advocacy and investigative reporting has made a positive impact on the Detroit community.
Through his “Help Me Hank” segment, he continues to assist residents with various consumer issues, demonstrating his commitment to protecting and serving the public.
Height, Weight:
Hank Winchester stands at an average height of 5 feet 8 inches (approximately 173 cm) and weighs around 143 pounds (approximately 65 kg).
Career and Background:
Hank Winchester is a proud graduate of Central Michigan University. He began his journalism career with positions at television stations in Marquette (NBC), Lansing (CBS), Flint/Saginaw (CBS), and Miami (CBS).
In 2001, he joined WDIV-TV in Detroit, where he has served as a reporter, Local 4 Defender, and weekend morning news anchor.
In 2015, following Ruth Spencer’s retirement, Hank took over the station’s consumer unit, rebranding it as “Help Me Hank.”
Throughout his career, he has covered significant stories, including the scandal involving former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick and high-profile murder investigations.
His work has been featured on national platforms such as Dateline NBC and The Today Show.
Early Career
Hank Winchester’s career in broadcast journalism began with internships and entry-level positions that allowed him to gain hands-on experience in the field.
His dedication and passion for storytelling quickly set him apart. Hank initially worked for CBS, taking on roles as a reporter and fill-in anchor in Miami and Lansing.
These positions provided him with a robust foundation in journalism, allowing him to cover a wide range of stories and connect with diverse audiences.
Rise to Prominence
Hank’s career trajectory took a significant leap when he joined WDIV-TV Local 4 in Detroit, Michigan, in the early 2000s.
As he settled into his role at WDIV-TV, Hank’s talent for investigative journalism became increasingly evident.
He covered numerous high-profile stories in Metro Detroit, which showcased his ability to delve deep into complex issues and present them in a way that resonated with viewers.
One of his notable assignments was reporting on the scandal, conviction, and trial of former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick.
This story required meticulous research and a keen understanding of the legal and political landscape of the city.
Help Me Hank
In 2015, Hank took over the popular consumer advocacy segment, Help Me Hank, following the retirement of Ruth Spencer.
As the head of this consumer unit, Hank’s focus shifted towards addressing consumer complaints, revealing important recalls, and tracking down individuals who had defrauded community members.
His dedication to consumer advocacy quickly made “Help Me Hank” a crucial resource for viewers seeking assistance with various issues.
Hank’s work in this segment involves investigating complaints from consumers, working with local authorities, and providing valuable information on consumer protection.
His efforts have helped countless individuals resolve their issues and stay informed about their rights. The success of “Help Me Hank” has solidified Hank’s reputation as a trusted consumer advocate.
Network Affiliations
WDIV-TV Local 4 (Detroit, MI)
Hank Winchester joined WDIV-TV Local 4 in Detroit in the early 2000s. Over the years, he has become a well-known figure in Metro Detroit’s media landscape.
As a Consumer Investigative Reporter and the head of the “Help Me Hank” Consumer Unit, Hank has made significant contributions to the community by addressing consumer complaints, uncovering important recalls, and exposing fraudulent activities.
His dedication to protecting consumers and providing valuable information has earned him the trust and respect of viewers.
CBS
Before his tenure at WDIV-TV, Hank worked as a reporter and fill-in anchor for CBS. His roles at CBS stations in Miami and Lansing helped him hone his skills in journalism and storytelling.
These experiences provided him with a strong foundation in reporting, allowing him to cover a wide range of stories and connect with diverse audiences.
NBC News
Hank also served as a correspondent for NBC News based in Marquette, Michigan. During his time with NBC News, he covered various news events and stories, gaining valuable experience in the field.
His work with NBC News contributed to his reputation as a reliable and dedicated journalist.
Career Highlights
Here are Hank Winchester’s notable reports, numbered:
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Kwame Kilpatrick Scandal
- Hank’s in-depth reporting on the scandal, conviction, and trial of former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick.
- Featured on Dateline NBC and The Today Show.
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Murder Investigations
- Coverage of the murder investigations of Jane Bashata, Tara Grant, and Ronald Jabalee.
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Consumer Advocacy
- Exposing scams, revealing important recalls, and tracking down individuals who have defrauded consumers through the “Help Me Hank” segment.
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Holiday Shopping Safety
- Providing tips and information to help viewers stay safe during the holiday shopping season, highlighting common scams.
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Road and Infrastructure Issues
- Reporting on road and infrastructure problems in Michigan, including efforts to fix the state’s roads.
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Spirit Airlines Bankruptcy
- Coverage of Spirit Airlines filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and the potential impact on holiday travel.
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Local Community Issues
- Focusing on various local community issues, such as efforts to improve road conditions and address resident concerns.
Hank Winchester has received several awards and recognitions throughout his career for his outstanding work in journalism and consumer advocacy:
- Emmy Awards: Hank has won three Emmy Awards for his investigative reporting and contributions to broadcast journalism.
- Associated Press Awards: He has received multiple awards from the Associated Press for his exceptional reporting and dedication to uncovering the truth.
- Michigan Association of Broadcasters Awards: Hank has been honored with awards from the Michigan Association of Broadcasters for his impactful journalism and commitment to the community.
- The Spirit of Detroit Award: This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the city of Detroit, and Hank was honored for his efforts in helping the community through his “Help Me Hank” segment.
Hank Winchester’s colleagues at WDIV-TV:
- Devin Scillian: An anchor and reporter at WDIV-TV, Devin Scillian has been a prominent figure in Detroit journalism. He has a strong presence on the Local 4 News and has worked with Hank on various stories and investigations.
- Jason Colthorp: An anchor and reporter at WDIV-TV, Jason Colthorp has covered a wide range of stories in Detroit. He has worked with Hank on investigative pieces and consumer advocacy reports, contributing to the station’s commitment to delivering impactful journalism.
- Kim DeGiulio: A reporter at WDIV-TV, Kim DeGiulio is known for her engaging storytelling and coverage of community events. She has collaborated with Hank on numerous reports, contributing to the station’s comprehensive news coverage.
- Rhonda Walker: An anchor at WDIV-TV, Rhonda Walker is a familiar face to viewers. She has worked alongside Hank on various news segments and has been a key part of the station’s morning news team.
These colleagues have played a crucial role in Hank Winchester’s career and the success of WDIV-TV. Their collaborative efforts have helped the station provide valuable information and support to the Detroit community.
Hank Winchester Heart Attack
Hank Winchester experienced a serious health scare when he had a heart attack. He shared his story in a video titled “Hank Winchester’s wake-up call: Ignoring my health nearly cost me everything”.
Hank admitted that he had ignored his health for years, putting off doctor visits and ignoring symptoms like chest tightness.
When he finally went for a check-up, tests revealed that he had significant plaque buildup in his arteries, which required immediate medical intervention.
Hank’s experience served as a wake-up call, prompting him to make lifestyle changes and prioritize his health. He now advocates for regular check-ups and taking care of one’s health to avoid similar situations.
Net Worth and Salary:
Hank Winchester’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $5 million. This wealth has been accumulated primarily through his successful career as a consumer investigative reporter.
His salary as a consumer investigative reporter at WDIV-TV is approximately $112,430 per year. This figure reflects his experience and contributions to the field of journalism.
In addition, Hank’s financial success can be attributed to his dedication and hard work over the years.
His impactful reporting and commitment to consumer advocacy have made him a trusted figure in the Detroit community, further enhancing his reputation and career prospects.
Is Hank Winchester Married?
Yes, Hank Winchester is married. He is openly gay and married to his long-time partner, Jeff Grim. They adopted a baby girl named Emma Rose in 2018.
How Old Is Hank Winchester?
Hank Winchester is 47 years old. He was born on January 24, 1978, in Detroit, Michigan.
Where Is Hank Winchester Working At?
Hank Winchester is currently working at WDIV-TV Local 4 in Detroit, Michigan. His primary role is as a Consumer Investigative Reporter.
In addition to this, he is also the head of the “Help Me Hank” Consumer Unit, where he addresses consumer complaints, reveals important recalls, and tracks down scammers.
Hank Winchester is active on social media. He uses platforms like Twitter and Instagram to engage with his audience, share updates, and provide valuable information.
You can follow him on Twitter at @hankwinchester to stay updated on his latest reports and consumer advocacy efforts.
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