Kelly O’Connell: Life On and Off the Camera at FOX 9
Start your day with a smile and a fresh pot of coffee, and chances are you’re watching Kelly O’Connell. As a cornerstone of the FOX 9 Morning News team, Kelly has become much more than a face on a screen for Twin Cities residents; she is the friendly neighbor who helps you navigate the chaos of the early hours. Known for her infectious energy and “Community Champions” segments, O’Connell brings a rare blend of journalistic grit and genuine warmth to the anchor desk.
But behind the polished delivery and bright lights of the studio lies a story of a Minnesota native who traveled the country to find her way back home. From the streets of Saint Paul to the bustling newsrooms of Seattle, Kelly’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, family, and a little bit of “Gopher” pride.
Roots in the North Star State
Kelly O’Connell is a “Twin Citian” through and through. Growing up in the Como Park neighborhood of Saint Paul, she developed an early appreciation for the close-knit community values that define Minnesota. Her connection to her roots remains incredibly strong—so much so that her parents still reside in her childhood home today.
After graduating from the University of Minnesota, Kelly set out to make her mark in the world of broadcast journalism. While she eventually became a household name in the Midwest, her path took her far from the familiar lakes of her youth.
A Journey Across the Dial
Before landing her dream job at KMSP FOX 9, Kelly’s career was a whirlwind of diverse markets and learning experiences. Every stop on her professional map added a new layer to her reporting style:
The Early Grind: She cut her teeth in smaller markets, spending significant time in Georgia and Iowa.
The Pacific Northwest: Most recently, Kelly spent years in Seattle, Washington, honing her skills as a versatile reporter and anchor.
The Homecoming: In a full-circle moment, she returned to Minneapolis to join the FOX 9 team, where she currently anchors the morning news starting at 4:30 a.m. and co-hosts the fan-favorite The FOX 9 Morning Buzz.
Career Milestones and The “Buzz” Factor
Kelly isn’t just an anchor; she’s a storyteller. One of her most impactful contributions is her “Community Champions” series, where she highlights local heroes making a difference in Minnesota. Whether it’s a student serving as a “joy ambassador” or music therapists healing children at local hospitals, Kelly’s segments focus on the “good” that often gets lost in the daily news cycle.
Her role on The FOX 9 Morning Buzz allows her personality to truly shine. Alongside colleagues like Keith Marler and Jason Matheson, Kelly navigates the transition from hard-hitting news to lighthearted lifestyle topics with an ease that feels like a conversation between friends.
Family First: The Personal Side of the News
While her professional life is lived in the public eye, Kelly’s heart belongs to her family. In a classic “TV romance” twist, she actually met her husband at a television station where they both worked earlier in their careers.
Today, their lives are beautifully busy with three children:
Kennedy: Their eldest daughter.
Freddie Jr.: Their energetic son.
The Newest Addition: In 2022, Kelly shared the joyful news of her third pregnancy with FOX 9 viewers, further solidifying her bond with the audience who has watched her family grow.
Piper: The family’s beloved dog who completes the O’Connell household.
5. Quick Facts: Kelly O’Connell at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Hometown | Saint Paul, MN (Como Park) |
| Education | University of Minnesota |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio (based on October birth date) |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Nationality | American |
| Work Schedule | Weekdays starting at 4:30 a.m. |
“There is so much good happening every day in our community, and we want to do more to celebrate it!” — Kelly O’Connell on her Community Champions series.
Legacy and Future Outlook
As we look toward 2026, Kelly O’Connell’s influence in the Minneapolis-St. Paul media landscape only continues to grow. In an era where news can often feel polarized or overwhelming, her commitment to “highlighting the good” has carved out a unique space for her. She represents the modern anchor: a professional who is deeply informed but isn’t afraid to show her humanity, whether she’s laughing at a “Morning Buzz” segment or getting emotional over a local success story.
Would you like me to research more about Kelly’s specific community awards or her favorite local Twin Cities spots?
Colleagues at FOX 9
Keith Marler: Meteorologist and “Morning Buzz” co-host.
Jason Matheson: Host of The Jason Show and frequent collaborator.
Alix Kendall: Long-time FOX 9 morning staple.
Tim Blotz & Kelcey Carlson: Evening anchor team.
Sources
Official FOX 9 Team Bio: Kelly O’Connell
KMSP-TV Career Archives and Segment Clips
University of Minnesota Alumni Records
Social Media Announcements (Instagram/Facebook)
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