The Return of Randy Wimbley: From the Tarmac Back to the Newsroom

In the high-stakes world of Detroit broadcast journalism, faces come and go, but few leave a mark quite like Randy Wimbley.

For nearly a decade, he was a staple of FOX 2 Detroit, known for a reporting style that felt both authoritative and deeply connected to the neighborhood. Then, in early 2023, he vanished from the airwaves.

The “disappearance” sparked a flurry of searches: Why did Randy Wimbley leave Fox 2? Was he fired? The truth was far less scandalous and much more strategic.

After a successful stint in high-level public relations, the veteran journalist has officially made his “homecoming,” joining WXYZ-TV Channel 7 in December 2024.

This is the story of a man who mastered the art of the “pivot,” proving that in the modern media landscape, your reputation is your greatest currency.

A Detroit Mainstay: The FOX 2 Years

Before his recent move to WXYZ-TV, Randy Wimbley spent nearly ten years (2013–2023) at WJBK FOX 2 News. During this time, he wasn’t just a face on a screen; he was a storyteller who navigated the complexities of Metro Detroit.

Whether he was standing in the snow for a 5:00 AM breaking news hit or investigating a local grievance, Wimbley earned a reputation for being a “reporter’s reporter.”

He juggled every shift imaginable, often producing multiple news packages a day under the crushing pressure of live TV.

Why did Randy Wimbley leave Fox 2?

Unlike the rumors that often swirl around TV departures—such as the infamous cases where a famous news anchor lied or was embroiled in scandal—Randy’s exit was a personal choice.

In March 2023, he decided to step away from the grueling 24/7 news cycle to explore the world of corporate communications.

The PR Pivot: Life at the Airport

Wimbley’s “missing year” was spent as the Communications and Public Relations Manager for the Wayne County Airport Authority.

Transitioning from asking the tough questions to managing the message for one of the country’s busiest travel hubs gave him a unique perspective. It wasn’t about being fired; it was about growth. This period allowed him to:

• Understand the “other side” of the media curtain.

• Manage large-scale crisis communications.

• Spend more time with family away from the unpredictable “breaking news” alerts.

However, the “news bug” is hard to shake. By late 2024, the lure of the deadline proved too strong.

New Chapter: Randy Wimbley at WXYZ-TV Channel 7

In December 2024, the Detroit media landscape shifted again. Randy Wimbley joined the WXYZ-TV team, bringing his decade of local knowledge back to the viewers who missed him.

His return to the Detroit Metropolitan Area news scene is a win for Channel 7.

Early Life and Roots: The Foundation

While he is a Detroit icon, Randy’s journey began at Bowling Green State University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Broadcast Journalism (2003–2007).

Randy Wimbley Upbringing and Ethnicity

Randy is an African American journalist who has often used his platform to highlight stories affecting diverse communities.

While he keeps his parents and siblings out of the tabloid spotlight, it is clear that his disciplined upbringing fueled his rise through the ranks of local news.

Fast Facts: Age and Zodiac

• Randy Wimbley Age: As of late 2025, Randy is in his early 40s (born circa 1985).

• Nationality: American.

• Height/Weight: Standing at approximately 5’10”, Randy maintains a professional, fit appearance suited for the camera.

Career Milestones: A Timeline of Excellence

Randy didn’t start at the top. His career is a roadmap for aspiring journalists:

1. WNEM TV5 (2007–2010): Started as a reporter for the CBS affiliate in the Saginaw/Flint market.

2. ABC 24 WPTY (2010–2013): Moved to Memphis, TN, where he became a go-to morning show reporter.

3. FOX 2 News WJBK (2013–2023): Solidified his status as a top-tier Detroit journalist.

4. Wayne County Airport Authority (2023–2024): A strategic dive into PR management.

5. WXYZ-TV (2024–Present): Returning to the airwaves as a lead reporter.

Personal Life: Is Randy Wimbley Married?

Viewers often wonder about the man behind the microphone. Randy is a private individual, but it is known that he is a dedicated husband and family man. While his wife largely stays out of the public eye, Randy often credits his family support system for helping him navigate the stressful transitions between news and PR.

Net Worth and Salary 2026

While official figures are rarely public, industry standards for a veteran reporter in a top-15 market like Detroit are significant.

• Estimated Salary: $85,000 – $120,000 per year.

• Estimated Net Worth: $500,000 – $1 million.This reflects his years of experience and his high-level management role in public relations.

Legacy and Impact: Why He Matters

Randy Wimbley represents the “New Media” professional—someone who can report the news, edit the footage (he is proficient in Edius and Avid Newscutter), and manage the public image of a major government entity.

His return to Channel 7 suggests that local news still has a heartbeat, and that journalists who build genuine connections with their city will always find a home there.

Summary Table: Randy Wimbley at a Glance

His Colleagues & Network

• Roop Raj (FOX 2): A long-time contemporary in the Detroit market.

• Glenda Lewis (WXYZ): Now a fellow teammate at Channel 7.

• Huel Perkins: A legendary Detroit figure whom Randy has been compared to in terms of delivery style.

Sources

• WXYZ-TV Official Talent Profiles

• LinkedIn Professional Experience Records

• Wayne County Airport Authority Press Archives

• Bowling Green State University Alumni Directory

What do you think of Randy’s move to Channel 7? Are you glad to see him back on the news, or did you prefer him at FOX 2? Let us know in the comments below!