Leanne Suter ABC7: Bio, Husband, Net Worth & Health Update

Leanne Suter: The Voice of Resilience and Adventure at ABC7 Los Angeles

In the fast-paced world of Los Angeles news, few faces are as familiar or as trusted as Leanne Suter. Since 2003, she has been a staple of ABC7 Eyewitness News, delivering stories that range from high-stakes police chases to heart-wrenching community profiles. But in late 2024 and early 2025, Suter became the story herself.

By opening up about a harrowing battle with an aggressive form of skin cancer, she transformed her platform from a source of news into a lifeline for others. This is the story of a journalist who doesn’t just report on life—she dives into it headfirst, whether that means swimming with sharks or fighting for her health.

Quick Facts: Leanne Suter at a Glance

Early Life and “Buckeye” Roots

Born on November 7, 1967, in Columbus, Ohio, Leanne Suter’s roots are firmly planted in the Midwest. Growing up in the heart of Ohio, she developed a “tell-it-like-it-is” attitude that would later become her professional trademark.

She attended Ohio State University, earning a degree in journalism. Her loyalty to her alma mater remains fierce; she currently serves on the board of the OSULA Alumni Association, helping fellow Buckeyes navigate life in Southern California.

A Career Built on “Immersive” Reporting

Before becoming a household name in Los Angeles, Leanne sharpened her skills in Columbus, OH, and Grand Rapids, MI. She arrived in the City of Angels in 1998, initially joining KCAL as a reporter and anchor in the Inland Empire bureau. Her hard-hitting work there earned her a prestigious Emmy Award, proving she was ready for the big stage.

Since joining ABC7 in 2003, Suter has earned a reputation for “immmersive journalism.” She isn’t a reporter who stays behind a desk. Her career highlights read like an adrenaline junkie’s bucket list:

• Flying with the Blue Angels: Experiencing the gut-wrenching G-forces of elite naval aviators.

• The Shark Tank: Going live underwater at the Aquarium of the Pacific to report from inside the shark exhibit.

• High-Speed Maneuvers: Learning how to perform a “PIT maneuver” during a simulated high-speed chase.

2024-2025: The Toughest Assignment

In late 2024, Leanne faced her most personal challenge yet. She noticed a small, unusual bump on her ear. Trusting her “inner voice,” she visited a dermatologist. The diagnosis was a rare and aggressive form of basal cell carcinoma (skin cancer).

Leanne underwent Mohs surgery, a precise procedure to remove the cancer, which required her ear to be partially removed and then reconstructed by a facial plastic surgeon. Rather than keeping her recovery private, she shared her journey on ABC7 to raise awareness, urging viewers: “If you see something unusual, go to the dermatologist. It may save your life.”

Personal Life: Family, Trails, and Hollywood

Despite her public persona, Leanne keeps her private life relatively low-key. She is married and shares a home in Southern California with her husband. While she often keeps her kids out of the spotlight to protect their privacy, she frequently shares her love for the outdoors.

When she isn’t chasing a lead, you’ll likely find her on the hiking trails of Southern California. She is also a secret film buff with a few “hidden” credits to her name. You might have spotted her playing a reporter in films and shows like:

• Skyscraper (2018)

• The Throwaways (2015)

• Made for Love (2021)

Leanne Suter Net Worth and Salary

As of 2026, Leanne Suter’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $3 million. While KABC-TV does not publicize exact salaries, veteran reporters in a top-tier market like Los Angeles typically earn between $150,000 and $250,000 annually. Her longevity at the station and her occasional acting roles contribute to her financial stability.

What Happened to Leanne Suter? A Brave Health Update

In late 2024, Leanne Suter used her platform for something more personal than a news segment. She revealed a diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer.

Suter noticed a small, seemingly harmless bump on her ear. Trusting her “inner voice,” she visited a dermatologist. The diagnosis led to Mohs surgery and a complex reconstructive procedure to save her ear. Today, she is a vocal advocate for annual skin checks, frequently reminding her viewers: “If you see something unusual, go to a dermatologist. It could save your life.”

Personal Life: Is Leanne Suter Married?

While she is an open book regarding her professional life and health advocacy, Leanne keeps her family life relatively private. She is married, though she rarely discusses her husband or children in the media to protect their privacy.

When she isn’t on the air, Leanne is an avid outdoorswoman. She spends much of her free time hiking the trails of Southern California. She also gives back to her alma mater by serving on the board of the OSULA (Ohio State University Los Angeles) Alumni Association.

Why We Love Her: The Suter Impact

Leanne Suter represents a disappearing breed of “old school” journalists who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty. Her longevity at KABC-TV is a testament to her reliability. In a world of “fake news” and fleeting social media trends, Suter remains a grounded, empathetic voice for Southern Californians.

Impact and Legacy

Leanne Suter represents the “old school” grit of journalism mixed with “new school” empathy. Whether she is reporting on a brush fire or her own surgery, she maintains a level of authenticity that resonates with Los Angeles viewers.

Expert Analysis: “Suter’s decision to document her cancer recovery in 2025 marks a shift from ‘reporter’ to ‘advocate.’ In a digital age where trust in media is fluctuating, her vulnerability has solidified her as one of the most relatable figures in West Coast broadcasting.”

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Leanne?

What do you think of Leanne’s brave health update? Share your messages of support in the comments below!

Sources & References

1. ABC7 Los Angeles Official Profile: Leanne Suter, General Assignment Reporter.

2. SurvivorNet: “ABC Reporter Leanne Suter Opens Up About Aggressive Skin Cancer” (Nov 2024).

3. IMDb: Leanne Suter Filmography and Credits.

4. The Ohio State University Alumni Association: Board Members and Profiles.

5. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Media and Communication Salary Averages (L.A. Metro Area).