Keenan Smith: The Voice of Detroit Mornings and the Heart of 7 Action News

From the heavy lake-effect snows of a Michigan January to the blistering humidity of a July afternoon, Keenan Smith doesn’t just report the weather—he lives it with the people of Metro Detroit.

Since joining WXYZ-TV (7 Action News) in 2010, Keenan has evolved from a trusted meteorologist into a cornerstone of Detroit’s morning routine. As of late 2025, he continues to lead the WXYZ Morning News as an anchor, blending hard-hitting journalism with the warmth of a neighbor. But behind the sharp suits and Emmy-winning delivery lies a story of academic excellence, a high-stakes career journey, and a deeply personal battle that redefined his outlook on life.

Quick Facts: Keenan Smith at a Glance

From Philly to the Ivy League: An Academic Powerhouse

Born on Halloween in 1972 in Philadelphia, Keenan Smith’s path to the anchor desk wasn’t a straight line. He was an academic standout from the start. He began his higher education at Morehouse College before earning his B.A. in Public Policy from Franklin & Marshall College.

Most viewers might not realize their morning anchor holds a Master’s degree from Princeton University. He earned a joint degree in Public Policy and Urban Planning (MPA/URP), a background that gives him a unique edge when interviewing local leaders about city infrastructure and Detroit’s redevelopment.

His passion for the skies came later, leading him to study meteorology at world-class institutions including Penn State and the College of DuPage.

The Career Climb: More Than Just a Weather Guy

Keenan’s career is a masterclass in versatility. Before becoming a fixture in Southfield, he honed his craft across the country:

• The Big Start: He began as an intern at WGAL in Lancaster, PA, quickly moving to overnight anchoring.

• The Network Grind: He spent time behind the scenes at NBC News in New York, contributing to Dateline NBC.

• The Windy City & Beyond: He worked in major markets like Chicago (WGN and CLTV) and West Palm Beach (WPTV) before Detroit called in 2010.

In March 2018, Keenan made a significant leap at WXYZ, transitioning from the morning meteorologist to a full-time Morning News Anchor. In this role, he steers a 4.5-hour broadcast, handling everything from breaking news to lifestyle segments.

A Father’s Greatest Test: The Liver Transplant Story

Keenan’s most impactful “broadcast” didn’t happen on a news set; it happened in a hospital waiting room. Years ago, Keenan and his wife faced every parent’s nightmare when their young son required a life-saving liver transplant.

Keenan has been incredibly open about this emotional journey, using his platform to advocate for organ donation. He often shares how the experience shifted his perspective, making him more empathetic toward the families he reports on.

“You realize very quickly what matters. The weather is important, the news is important, but the people next to you are everything.”

Why Detroit? The “Four Seasons” Connection

While many media personalities chase the sun of California or Florida, Keenan actually fled the “monotony” of South Florida’s tropical weather for Michigan. He famously cites Michigan’s four distinct seasons as a primary draw. Whether he’s tracking a “Snowmageddon” or a summer derecho, his enthusiasm for the Great Lakes climate is authentic and infectious.

Awards and Recognition

Keenan isn’t just popular; he’s peer-validated. His trophy case includes:

• 2025 Emmy Award: Won for “Best Anchor” during WXYZ’s dominant nine-Emmy sweep.

• 2005 Emmy Nomination: For Best Weather (Midwest Regional).

• Illinois AP Award: Recognized for his prowess in Investigative Reporting.

• AMS Seal of Approval: A prestigious credential from the American Meteorological Society.

Personal Life: Marriage, Family, and Net Worth

Keenan is a devoted family man. He has been married for over two decades and is the father of two sons. While he keeps his private life relatively low-key, he is a frequent face at community events across Southeast Michigan.

Net Worth & Salary 2025

While official figures are rarely public, industry standards for a lead anchor in a Top 15 market like Detroit suggest:

• Estimated Salary: $150,000 – $225,000 per year.

• Estimated Net Worth: $1 million – $3 million (based on a 25+ year career in major markets and real estate).

Legacy and Impact: The 2025 Outlook

As we move through 2025, Keenan Smith remains one of the most stable and trusted figures in Detroit media. At 53, he is at the peak of his career, bridging the gap between traditional broadcast journalism and the digital-first era. His ability to switch from a serious interview about urban planning to a lighthearted weather segment makes him an “all-terrain” journalist.

What’s next for Keenan? With his recent “Best Anchor” win, many speculate he may eventually move into station management or take on a larger role within the E.W. Scripps Company, though his love for the morning desk suggests he’s right where he wants to be.

Connect with Keenan Smith

• Watch: 7 Action News Mornings on WXYZ.

• Social: Follow him on Facebook for Michigan weather photos and behind-the-scenes clips.

• Colleagues: Often seen on air with Alicia Smith, Glenda Lewis, and Dave Rexroth.

Sources:

• WXYZ-TV Official Staff Profiles

• American Meteorological Society Member Directory

• Princeton University Alumni Records

• National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) Michigan Chapter

What do you love most about Keenan’s morning segments? Share your favorite “Keenan moment” in the comments below!