Lisa Fletcher Biography: Age, Husband, Career & More | WJLA-TV

Lisa Fletcher Biography: Award-Winning Investigative Reporter at WJLA-TV

Lisa Fletcher is an American television journalist, renowned for her work as an award-winning investigative reporter and news anchor.

She is currently with WJLA-TV in Washington, D.C., and is recognized for her impactful reporting that has led to significant reforms and accountability.

• Current Role at WJLA-TV:

  Lisa Fletcher serves as a senior investigative reporter for WJLA-TV’s “7 On Your Side” investigative unit and also contributes to Sinclair’s syndicated news magazine “Full Measure With Sharyl Attkisson.” She joined WJLA in April 2016.

• Investigative Impact:

  Throughout her career, Fletcher’s investigative reports have had tangible results. Her work has been instrumental in shutting down corrupt businesses, leading to the incarceration of child predators, and forcing government agencies to account for misused taxpayer funds. She has also exposed serious security breaches at major airports, leading to immediate suspensions and national inquiries.

• Award-Winning Journalist:

  Fletcher is highly decorated, having received numerous prestigious awards for her investigative journalism. These include:

• • The George Foster Peabody Award, one of the most esteemed honors in broadcasting.

• • Multiple Edward R. Murrow Awards, recognized for broadcast excellence.

• • Numerous Emmy Awards for investigative journalism.

• • The Nancy Dickerson Whitehead Medallion, which included a $10,000 award for her stories exposing the dangers of children abusing over-the-counter medications. She and her producer notably donated the prize money to an agency helping kids stay off drugs.

• Extensive Experience:

  Before joining WJLA-TV, Fletcher’s distinguished career included:

• • Serving as a national correspondent for ABC News, where her reports were featured on “Good Morning America,” “ABC World News,” and “Nightline.” She covered major stories such as Sarah Palin’s 2008 presidential campaign, the Governor Mark Sanford political scandal, and the O.J. Simpson trial.

• • Hosting “The Stream” on Al Jazeera America, where she was also heavily involved in the editorial process, determining topics and guest selection.

• • Working as a lead investigative reporter and news anchor for KNXV-TV in Phoenix, Arizona, where she conducted undercover reports.

• • Beginning her on-air career while still in college at KEZI-TV in Eugene, Oregon, and later anchoring daily newscasts for KTVZ-TV in Bend, Oregon. She returned to KEZI as a main anchor and investigative reporter, covering natural disasters and significant events like the Thurston High School shooting.

• Education:

  Lisa Fletcher is a graduate of the University of Oregon, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism with a minor in English in 1990.

• Early Career:

  She began her on-air career while still in college at KEZI-TV in Eugene, Oregon, eventually becoming a main anchor and investigative reporter there. She also anchored newscasts for KTVZ-TV in Bend, Oregon, and served as lead investigative reporter and news anchor for KNXV-TV in Phoenix, Arizona, where she co-hosted a political talk show.

Age:

Lisa Fletcher is estimated to be 54 years old as of 2025, placing her birth year around 1971. She celebrates her birthday on April 13, which makes her zodiac sign Aries.

She is of White ethnicity and holds American nationality, having been born and raised in the United States.

Husband:

Lisa Fletcher is married to Wayne Pacelle, a well-known advocate for animal rights and the former president and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States.

The couple has been together for several years, and both share a passion for humanitarian and social justice causes.

Wayne Pacelle is a prominent animal rights and welfare activist, author, and non-profit businessperson.

He was born on August 4, 1965, in New Haven, Connecticut. Pacelle graduated from Yale University with degrees in history and environmental studies.

He is best known for his role as the former president and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), where he served from 2004 to 2018.

During his tenure, he was instrumental in securing the passage of numerous federal statutes and amendments aimed at protecting animals, including laws to increase penalties for harming law enforcement animals and to protect great apes, sharks, and big cats.

Pacelle is also an accomplished author, having written two New York Times bestsellers: The Bond: Our Kinship with Animals, Our Call to Defend Them and The Humane Economy: How Innovators and Enlightened Consumers Are Transforming the Lives of Animals.

These books explore the relationship between humans and animals and advocate for more humane treatment of animals in various industries.

In addition to his work with HSUS, Pacelle founded Animal Wellness Action, a 501©(4) organization that promotes legal standards against animal cruelty, and the Center for a Humane Economy, a 501©(3) organization that encourages businesses to adopt animal-friendly practices.

However, his career has not been without controversy. In 2018, Pacelle resigned from HSUS following allegations of sexual harassment, which he denied.

Height:

Lisa Fletcher stands at approximately 5’6″ (1.68 m) and is estimated to weigh between 125–135 lbs (57–61 kg), with body measurements around 34-26-35 inches (86-66-89 cm).

Career and Background:

Lisa Fletcher’s career in journalism began in the early 1990s, with her rising through the ranks to become a trusted investigative reporter.

She has worked for several notable networks, including ABC News, where she covered national and international stories.

Fletcher’s work has earned her multiple awards, including Emmy Awards for her investigative reports that have influenced public policy and exposed corruption.

She joined WJLA-TV in Arlington, VA, and continues to play a significant role as a Network News Correspondent, where her reporting focuses on critical social, political, and environmental issues.

Career Timeline and Stations

• KEZI-TV (Eugene, Oregon): Fletcher began her on-air career here while still in college, later returning as the main anchor and investigative reporter. Her coverage of the 1998 Thurston High School shooting earned her an Edward R. Murrow Award.

• KTVZ-TV (Bend, Oregon): After graduation, she anchored daily newscasts, gaining early experience in live reporting and newsroom leadership.

• KNXV-TV (Phoenix, Arizona): As lead investigative reporter and anchor, Fletcher exposed multimillion-dollar scams, child predators, and airport security failures. Her work led to federal investigations and policy changes, earning her national recognition.

• ABC News (Los Angeles Bureau): Joining in 2007, she served as a national correspondent, contributing to Good Morning America, Nightline, and World News. Her stories tackled environmental abuses, government failures, and social justice issues.

• Al Jazeera America / Al Jazeera English: From 2012 to 2015, she hosted The Stream, an interactive political talk show that aired globally. The program won multiple awards for its innovative format and civic engagement.

• WJLA-TV (Washington, D.C.): Currently, Fletcher is a senior investigative reporter and anchor at this ABC affiliate. Her reporting continues to drive accountability in government and institutions.

Here are some highlights of her career:

• Investigative Reporting: Lisa has a strong background in investigative journalism. She has worked on numerous high-profile stories, uncovering significant issues and bringing them to public attention. Her investigative work has earned her several awards and recognitions.

• Anchoring and Producing: In addition to her reporting duties, Lisa has also served as an anchor and producer. This experience has given her a well-rounded perspective on the news industry, allowing her to understand and manage the complexities of news production.

• WJLA-TV: Currently, Lisa is a reporter at WJLA-TV, where she continues to deliver impactful stories and reports. Her work at WJLA-TV has further solidified her reputation as a dedicated and skilled journalist.

Lisa Fletcher has conducted several impactful investigations throughout her career. Here are a few notable ones:

• Airport Security Breaches: In a sweeping undercover investigation, Lisa exposed serious security breaches at one of the nation’s largest airports. This led to the immediate suspension and eventual replacement of the TSA’s Federal Security Director, as well as a national inquiry into airport security procedures.

• Abuse of Primates in Testing Facilities: For ABC’s Nightline, Lisa uncovered the abuse of chimpanzees and other primates at one of the nation’s largest testing facilities. Her investigation prompted a response from the USDA and subsequent punitive action against the lab. This story is often credited as a significant factor in the eventual elimination of chimpanzee testing in the USA.

• Criminal Justice System: Lisa has exposed various wrongdoings within the criminal justice system, highlighting issues that have led to reforms and increased public awareness.

Career Achievements:

• Investigative Reporting: Lisa is known for her hard-hitting investigative reports that have led to significant changes in policies and practices. Her work has exposed security flaws, animal testing abuses, and other critical issues.

• Awards and Recognition: In addition to the George Foster Peabody Award, Edward R. Murrow Awards, and Emmy Awards, Lisa has also been recognized by various journalism organizations for her contributions to the field.

WJLA has a diverse team of journalists covering various aspects of news, weather, sports, and more. Here are some notable members of the team:

• Scott Thuman: Chief Political Correspondent, covering the White House, Capitol Hill, and international affairs.

• Michelle Marsh: Emmy Award-winning evening anchor for the 5 PM, 6 PM, and 11 PM newscasts.

• Veronica Johnson: Chief Meteorologist, providing weather forecasts and updates.

• Scott Abraham: Sports Director, covering major sports events and stories.

• Adrianna Hopkins: Anchor for various newscasts.

• Eileen Whelan: Morning Meteorologist.

• Britt Waters: Traffic Anchor.

• John Rogers: Anchor.

• Victoria Sanchez: Anchor.

• Megan Clarke: Anchor and reporter, covering a wide range of stories including the opioid crisis and rising crime trends.

This team brings a wealth of experience and expertise to their reporting, ensuring comprehensive coverage of local and national news.

Net Worth and Salary:

Lisa Fletcher’s estimated net worth ranges between $500,000 and $1 million, reflecting her decades-long career in investigative journalism and national broadcasting.

As for her salary, reports suggest she earns an annual income between $31,300 and $92,500, which aligns with industry standards for senior investigative reporters at major network affiliates like WJLA-TV.

How Old Is Lisa Fletcher?

Lisa Fletcher was born on April 13, though her exact year of birth has not been publicly disclosed.

Based on her career timeline—starting her on-air work in 1990—it’s reasonable to estimate that she is in her mid to late 50s.

Is Lisa Fletcher Married?

Yes, Lisa Fletcher is married to Wayne Pacelle. They tied the knot in May 2013. Wayne Pacelle is the former president and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States.

Where Is Lisa Fletcher Working?

Lisa Fletcher is currently working at WJLA-TV, the ABC affiliate in Washington, D.C. She serves as a senior investigative reporter and contributor to the program “Full Measure.”

Before joining WJLA, she had an extensive career with various major news networks, including ABC News and Al Jazeera America.

Lisa Fletcher’s work continues to make a significant impact, driving change and bringing important issues to light. You can follow her on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay updated on her latest stories.