
Rob Fukuzaki Biography: KABC-TV Eyewitness News Sports Anchor & LA Icon
Rob Fukuzaki is a veteran American sports journalist and anchor best known as the weekday sports anchor for ABC7 Eyewitness News at KABC-TV in Los Angeles, California.
Since joining the station in 1994, he has become a trusted voice in sports broadcasting, covering Super Bowls, NBA Finals, World Series, and other major events.
A trailblazer in his field, Fukuzaki made history as the first male Japanese-American TV anchor in Los Angeles local news.
Early Life and Education
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Birthplace: Torrance, California
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Raised in: Honolulu, Hawaii (moved with his family at age three)
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High School: Mid-Pacific Institute, Honolulu
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College: University of La Verne, California – B.A. in Broadcast Journalism with an emphasis in radio and television
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College Achievements: Named Broadcaster of the Year three consecutive years (1986–1988)
Career Journey
Early Career
Rob began his career in Hawaii, working as a radio personality for KXPW before transitioning to television. In 1989, he joined KITV, ABC’s Honolulu affiliate, as a part-time sports reporter. His engaging style and skill quickly elevated him to a full-time sports reporter and weekend anchor role.
One of his early career highlights was winning his first broadcasting award for a feature on Sumo Wrestling in Japan.
ABC7 KABC-TV
In 1994, Fukuzaki joined ABC7 Eyewitness News in Los Angeles, becoming the station’s weekday sports anchor. His appointment was historic, as he became the first male Japanese-American television anchor in Los Angeles local news.
Over three decades at ABC7, he has anchored the flagship Eyewitness News sports segment, hosted Sports Zone and special post-game programs, and covered the biggest stages in sports, from the Super Bowl to the World Series.
Awards and Recognition
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Southern California Sports Broadcasters Hall of Fame (2016)
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Lifetime Achievement Award – Golden Mike Awards (2025)
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Early recognition for a feature on Sumo Wrestling in Japan
Community Impact and Philanthropy
Heads Up Youth Foundation
In 1996, Rob founded the Heads Up Youth Foundation (also known as the Rob Fukuzaki Foundation). The nonprofit focuses on supporting disadvantaged and at-risk youth in Southern California.
Key Initiatives Include:
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Scholarships for foster youth
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Providing school supplies for low-income students
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Creating reading centers and science labs in underserved schools
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Supporting sports and mentorship programs
Through this foundation, Rob has combined his passion for sports and commitment to empowering the next generation.
Personal Life and Interests
Outside of journalism, Rob enjoys golf, music, and singing. His love for music has led him to write and record tribute songs dedicated to sports legends such as Tommy Lasorda and Raul Mondesi.
Rob Fukuzaki Age:
Rob Fukuzaki was born on July 4, 1966, in Torrance, California. As of 2025, he is 59 years old. His zodiac sign is Cancer, reflecting his July birthday. He is Japanese-American by ethnicity and holds American nationality.
Rob Fukuzaki Parents and Siblings:
Fukuzaki was born in Torrance, California, but his family relocated to Honolulu, Hawaii, when he was just 3 years old, where he spent the rest of his childhood immersed in a vibrant multicultural environment that sparked his interest in broadcasting—especially sports, influenced by the visibility of Asian faces on local TV.
He attended Mid-Pacific Institute for high school in Honolulu before moving back to Southern California for college at the University of La Verne, where he earned a B.A. in Broadcast Journalism in 1988 and was named Broadcaster of the Year three years in a row.
His parents are Ann and Wil Fukuzaki, and as their only child, he grew up without siblings, fostering a close-knit family dynamic.
Rob Fukuzaki Wife:
Rob Fukuzaki is married to Sharil Fukuzaki, who plays an important role in his philanthropic work. She serves as the Executive Director of the Heads Up Youth Foundation, the nonprofit Rob founded in 1996 to support disadvantaged youth across Southern California.
Together, Rob and Sharil welcomed their son, Maverick Robert Fukuzaki, born on May 21, 2019. The couple often collaborates on community initiatives, combining their professional and personal passions to make a positive impact.
Rob Fukuzaki Height, Weight:
Fukuzaki stands approximately 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) tall and weighs around 160 pounds (73 kg).
Rob Fukuzaki KABC-TV Career Timeline:
Pre-KABC (1980s–1993)
Before arriving in Los Angeles, Rob began his career in Hawaii. He worked as a radio personality at Top 40 station KXPW and later transitioned into television at KITV (Honolulu). There, he gained recognition for an award-winning special on Sumo Wrestling in Japan. His on-air presence led to a promotion as a full-time weekday sports reporter and weekend anchor at KHON-TV, preparing him for a larger stage.
1994 – Joining ABC7 Eyewitness News
Rob Fukuzaki joined KABC-TV (ABC7) in Los Angeles as a sports anchor, making history as the first male Japanese-American television anchor in Los Angeles local news. His enthusiastic, approachable delivery and deep knowledge of Southern California sports quickly won over viewers, establishing him as a trusted sports voice.
Mid–1990s – Expanding Coverage
As his role grew, Rob covered major national events such as the NBA Finals, Super Bowl, World Series, and Stanley Cup Finals. At the same time, he demonstrated his dedication to local sports by launching “Slam Dunk,” a high school basketball program that became a community favorite.
1996 – Founding Heads Up Youth Foundation
Beyond the newsroom, Rob founded the Heads Up Youth Foundation, dedicated to helping underserved children in Southern California. The nonprofit has provided scholarships, built reading centers and science labs, and supplied school essentials to countless students. Rob frequently uses his ABC7 platform to spotlight the foundation’s initiatives and community needs.
2000s – Building a Legacy
Throughout the 2000s, Rob became synonymous with Los Angeles sports coverage. He anchored Saturday Night Sports, hosted Chargers pre- and post-game shows, and led other special sports programs. Known for his creative approach, he often infused his broadcasts with personal touches, including musical tributes to retiring athletes and sports legends.
2011 – Personal and Professional Milestone
Rob married Sharil Fukuzaki, who later became the Executive Director of the Heads Up Youth Foundation, strengthening their shared commitment to community service. Together, they welcomed their son, Maverick Robert Fukuzaki, further shaping Rob’s public image as both a respected broadcaster and a devoted family man.
2016 – Hall of Fame Induction
Rob was inducted into the Southern California Sports Broadcasters Hall of Fame, joining the ranks of broadcasting icons such as Vin Scully and Chick Hearn. This honor cemented his status as one of the region’s most influential sports journalists.
2019 – 25 Years at ABC7
Rob celebrated his 25th anniversary with ABC7, a milestone that highlighted his consistency, popularity, and staying power in one of the most competitive television markets in the country.
2020s – Veteran Anchor and Community Leader
Now in his fourth decade at KABC-TV, Rob continues to serve as the weekday sports anchor for Eyewitness News, while also hosting Sports Zone and pre/post-game specials. His role extends beyond sports coverage—he is widely regarded as a mentor, philanthropist, and community leader.
Rob Fukuzaki Face Surgery:
There are no public records or credible reports indicating that Rob Fukuzaki has undergone facial reconstructive or cosmetic surgery.
While some online discussions have speculated about changes in his appearance, these claims are unverified and based on personal opinion rather than medical fact.
Dental Work and Chiropractic Care
Rob has been open about certain medical treatments, though none involve cosmetic surgery.
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Dental Care (2024): He shared on social media that he received new dental work from Dr. Don Kobashigawa, including crowns to address dental issues.
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Chiropractic Care (2024): In June 2024, he documented a session with Dr. Donovan Smolich, who treated him for joint misalignments.
Health and Lifestyle
Rob remains proactive about his health. He follows a balanced diet, regular exercise routine, and uses professional care when needed to maintain overall wellness.
Addressing Public Speculation
During the COVID-19 pandemic, rumors circulated about his health status. Rob personally clarified that he was not under quarantine and was in good health at the time.
Rob Fukuzaki Net Worth and Salary:
As of 2025, Rob Fukuzaki’s net worth is estimated between $1.5 million and $3 million. His wealth comes primarily from his long-standing career as a sports anchor at ABC7 Eyewitness News, where he has worked for more than three decades. Additional earnings may stem from public speaking, special appearances, and community leadership roles.
Salary
Rob’s annual salary as a veteran sports anchor at ABC7 is estimated at around $100,000 to $230,000, reflecting both his seniority and his role in one of the largest television markets in the country.
Assets and Financial Approach
While details of his investments are not publicly available, Rob’s financial profile points to steady earnings and careful asset management.
Unlike many public figures, his focus has been on philanthropy over personal luxury, with much of his time and energy dedicated to the Heads Up Youth Foundation, which supports disadvantaged youth across Southern California.
Is Rob Fukuzaki Married?
Yes, Rob Fukuzaki has been married to Sharil Fukuzaki for many years; they share a son, Maverick, born in 2019, and collaborate on philanthropic efforts.
What is Rob Fukuzaki illness?
Rob Fukuzaki is currently in good health and continues to anchor sports at ABC7 with his usual energy and professionalism. He has not faced any major illnesses but has been open about addressing minor health concerns.
Medical Treatments
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Dental Care (2024): Rob underwent dental work with Dr. Don Kobashigawa and shared his experience publicly, reflecting his transparency and upbeat outlook.
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Chiropractic Care (2024): In June 2024, he received treatment from Dr. Donovan Smolich for joint misalignments, which he documented in a video posted online.
Public Speculation and Clarifications
During the COVID-19 pandemic, rumors circulated about Rob’s health. He clarified on Facebook that he was not under quarantine and was in good health, putting the speculation to rest.
Personal Health Challenges
Rob experienced the loss of his mother, who passed away after battling cancer. While this was a difficult personal challenge, he has spoken about the importance of family, resilience, and carrying on her legacy.
Current Lifestyle
Today, Rob maintains his health through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine checkups. There are no reports of serious illness or stroke, and he remains active both on air and in the community.
How Old Is Rob Fukuzaki?
Rob Fukuzaki is 59 years old (born July 4, 1966).
Where is Rob Fukuzaki working?
Rob Fukuzaki is currently working at ABC7 Eyewitness News (KABC-TV) in Los Angeles, California, where he serves as the weekday sports anchor and host of various sports segments.
His Role at ABC7
- Anchors sports segments during weekday newscasts.
- Hosts special programming such as:
- Slam Dunk (high school basketball coverage)
- Chargers pre- and post-game shows
- Saturday Night Sports
He’s been with ABC7 since 1994, making him one of the longest-serving and most respected sports journalists in Southern California.
Summary Table
Category | Details |
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Full Name | Rob Fukuzaki |
Profession | Sports Anchor & Journalist |
Current Role | Weekday Sports Anchor, ABC7 Eyewitness News (KABC-TV), Los Angeles |
Years Active at ABC7 | Since 1994 (30+ years) |
Notable Achievement | First male Japanese-American TV anchor in Los Angeles local news |
Birth Date & Age | July 4, 1966 – 59 years old (as of 2025) |
Zodiac Sign | Cancer |
Ethnicity/Nationality | Japanese-American / American |
Birthplace | Torrance, California |
Raised In | Honolulu, Hawaii (moved at age 3) |
Parents & Siblings | Parents: Ann and Wil Fukuzaki; Only child, no siblings |
Education | Mid-Pacific Institute (Honolulu); University of La Verne – B.A. in Broadcast Journalism |
College Achievements | Named “Broadcaster of the Year” three consecutive years (1986–1988) |
Early Career |
Radio personality at KXPW (Hawaii); Sports reporter/anchor at KITV & KHON-TV; won first award for a Sumo Wrestling feature in Japan |
ABC7 Career Highlights | Anchors Eyewitness News sports segments; Hosts Sports Zone, Slam Dunk, Saturday Night Sports, Chargers pre/post-game shows; Covered Super Bowls, NBA Finals, World Series, Stanley Cup Finals |
Career Timeline | 1994 – Joins ABC7 as sports anchor (historic first) 1996 – Founds Heads Up Youth Foundation 2000s – Expands programming & community impact 2011 – Marries Sharil Fukuzaki 2016 – Inducted into Southern California Sports Broadcasters Hall of Fame 2019 – Celebrates 25 years at ABC7 2020s – Veteran anchor, mentor, and community leader |
Philanthropy | Founder of Heads Up Youth Foundation (1996) – scholarships, school supplies, reading centers, science labs, sports mentorship programs |
Awards & Recognition | Southern California Sports Broadcasters Hall of Fame (2016) Lifetime Achievement Award – Golden Mike Awards (2025) Early award for Sumo Wrestling feature |
Wife | Sharil Fukuzaki – Executive Director of Heads Up Youth Foundation |
Children | Son: Maverick Robert Fukuzaki (born May 21, 2019) |
Height & Weight | 5 ft 9 in (175 cm), ~160 lbs (73 kg) |
Health Status | In good health; underwent dental work (2024) with Dr. Don Kobashigawa and chiropractic care with Dr. Donovan Smolich. No major illnesses. Clarified during COVID-19 he was healthy. Experienced loss of his mother to cancer. |
Plastic Surgery Rumors | No evidence of cosmetic surgery; only minor dental and chiropractic treatments |
Net Worth (2025) | Estimated between $1.5 million – $3 million |
Salary | Estimated $100,000 – $230,000 annually |
Financial Approach | Stable earnings from ABC7 career; possible income from speaking/appearances; philanthropic focus over luxury |
Hobbies & Interests | Golf, music, singing; has recorded tribute songs for sports legends Tommy Lasorda and Raul Mondesi |
Rob Fukuzaki is active on social media:
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Instagram: @abc7rob
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X (Twitter): @abc7rob
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Facebook: Rob Fukuzaki / ABC7Rob
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