Robin Roberts Biography: Journalist, Survivor & TV Icon | Good Morning America Co-Anchor
Robin Roberts is an acclaimed American television broadcaster, widely recognized for her work as co-anchor of ABC’s Good Morning America and her inspiring personal journey as a survivor.
Early Life and Career in Journalism:
Born in Tuskegee, Alabama, Robin Roberts is the youngest of four children of Lucimarian Tolliver Roberts and Colonel Lawrence E. Roberts, one of the famed Tuskegee Airmen.
She grew up in Pass Christian, Mississippi, where she excelled in both academics and athletics, graduating as salutatorian of her high school class in 1979.
Roberts attended Southeastern Louisiana University, where she was a standout on the women’s basketball team, becoming one of only three Lady Lions to achieve 1,000 career points and 1,000 career rebounds.
She graduated cum laude in 1983 with a bachelor’s degree in communications.
Her journalism career began in 1983 as a sports anchor and reporter for local TV stations in Mississippi (WDAM-TV, WLOX-TV) before moving to Nashville, Tennessee (WSMV-TV), and then Atlanta, Georgia (WAGA-TV).
In 1990, Roberts joined ESPN as a sportscaster, where she remained for 15 years, hosting SportsCenter and contributing to NFL Primetime. Her versatility and engaging style made her a popular figure in sports broadcasting.
In 1995, Roberts began contributing to ABC News’ Good Morning America as a featured reporter, eventually being promoted to co-anchor in 2005.
Her transition from sports to general news was seamless, and she became a beloved figure known for her compassionate interviews and strong journalistic integrity.
Under her co-anchorship, Good Morning America reclaimed the top spot in morning show ratings.
Battles with Illness and Survivorship:
Robin Roberts has faced significant personal health challenges, which she has openly shared with the public, becoming an advocate for health awareness and early detection.
In 2007, she was diagnosed with an early form of breast cancer. She underwent surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation treatment, continuing to broadcast during this period. Her transparency helped to demystify the experience of cancer for many.
In 2012, Roberts received a diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), a rare blood and bone marrow disease.
She publicly announced her illness, which led to an astonishing 1,800 percent surge in registrations for the Be the Match Registry, a non-profit organization facilitating bone marrow donations.
Robin Roberts took a leave of absence from Good Morning America to undergo a bone marrow transplant, with her sister, Sally-Ann Roberts, serving as her donor.
She returned to Good Morning America in February 2013, to an emotional welcome. Her courageous sharing of her journey earned Good Morning America a Peabody Award for its public service campaign.
Personal Life and Continued Impact:
Beyond her professional achievements and health battles, Robin Roberts has continued to inspire.
In December 2013, she publicly acknowledged that she is gay, sharing her gratitude for her long-time partner, Amber Laign. Roberts and Laign met in 2005 and married in September 2023.
Roberts has authored several books, including “From the Heart: Seven Rules to Live By” (2007) and “Everybody’s Got Something” (2014), which delve into her experiences and philosophies.
She has received numerous awards for her contributions to journalism, sports, and for her advocacy, including the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism and the Arthur Ashe Courage Award.
Awards and Honors
Robin Roberts has received numerous awards and honors throughout her career, including:
- Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism
- Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame induction
- Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame induction
- Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the ESPYs in 2013
- George Foster Peabody Award for her coverage of her battle with MDS
Legacy
Robin Roberts’ legacy extends beyond her broadcasting career.
She has inspired many with her resilience and courage, and her work has had a significant impact on the field of journalism.
She continues to be a beloved figure on television and a role model for many.
Age:
Robin Roberts is 64 years old, born on November 23, 1960. Her zodiac sign is Sagittarius. She is of African American ethnicity, and her nationality is American.
Parents and Siblings:
Robin Roberts was born in Tuskegee, Alabama, and grew up in Pass Christian, Mississippi.
She is the daughter of Lucimarian (née Tolliver) and Colonel Lawrence E. Roberts, who was a Tuskegee Airman. Her parents instilled in her the values of discipline, determination, and faith.
Robin has three siblings: Sally-Ann Roberts, Lawrence Jr. (nicknamed Butch), and Dorothy Roberts McEwen.
Sally-Ann followed in Robin’s footsteps and became a television journalist, while Lawrence Jr. and Dorothy have also pursued their own successful careers.
Robin attended Pass Christian High School, where she graduated as the class of 1979 salutatorian.
She then went on to Southeastern Louisiana University, where she graduated cum laude in 1983 with a degree in communication.
Her older sister Sally-Ann was already an anchor at the CBS affiliate WWL-TV in New Orleans, and Robin decided to follow in her footsteps.
Partner:
Robin Roberts is married to her longtime partner, Amber Laign.
They first met on a blind date in 2005 and tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony in September 2023.
The wedding took place in the backyard of their home, surrounded by family and close friends.
Robin and Amber don’t have any children together, but they share a heartwarming adoption story.
They adopted a rescue dog named Lukas, who has become an important part of their family.
As for their residence, Robin and Amber live in Connecticut. They enjoy their beautiful home and often share moments from their life there on social media.
Height:
- Height: 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm)
- Weight: Approximately 170 lbs (77 kg)
- Measurements: 36-28-38 inches (91-71-97 cm)
Career and Background:
Robin Roberts’ career began as a sportscaster for local television stations, where she became the first African-American woman to anchor a local sports show.
She moved to ESPN in 1990, where she became a prominent sports anchor.
In 1995, she joined Good Morning America as a news anchor, and over time, she transitioned into the role of co-anchor.
Robin is known for her compassionate interviews with major public figures, as well as her dedication to storytelling.
She has covered major events, including presidential elections, natural disasters, and breaking news, while also becoming an advocate for cancer awareness after her own personal battle.
Early Career
Robin Roberts began her journey in journalism in 1983, starting as a sports anchor and reporter for WDAM-TV in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.
She quickly moved on to WLOX-TV in Biloxi, Mississippi, followed by WSMV-TV in Nashville, Tennessee.
She then worked for WAGA-TV in Atlanta, Georgia, where she served as a reporter and sports anchor.
ESPN
Robin’s big break came in 1990 when she joined ESPN. She spent 15 years at the network, becoming one of the most recognizable faces in sports broadcasting.
At ESPN, she hosted shows such as SportsCenter and became the first woman to co-host NFL Primetime.
Her tenure at ESPN solidified her reputation as a talented and engaging sportscaster.
Good Morning America (GMA)
In May 2005, Robin joined ABC’s Good Morning America as a co-anchor. Her presence helped the show climb to the top of the morning show ratings.
Under her leadership, Good Morning America has won multiple Emmy Awards for Outstanding Morning Program and the 2017 People’s Choice Award for Favorite Daytime TV Hosting Team.
Robin’s warm, relatable style and her ability to handle both hard-hitting news and light-hearted segments have made her a beloved figure on morning television.
Significant Reports and Interviews
Robin has covered numerous significant events and conducted many high-profile interviews, including:
- Hurricane Katrina: Reporting from her hometown of Pass Christian, Mississippi, following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina.
- Interviews with Presidents: Interviews with several U.S. Presidents, including Barack Obama, and other world leaders.
- Human Interest Stories: In-depth human interest stories and features that have resonated with audiences.
Health Journey
In 2012, Robin was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), a rare blood disorder.
She took a leave of absence from Good Morning America to undergo treatment, which included a bone marrow transplant.
Her journey was shared publicly and provided inspiration to many. Her bravery and openness about her battle with MDS earned Good Morning America a 2012 Peabody Award for their coverage.
Awards and Recognitions
Robin Roberts has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including:
- Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism
- Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame induction
- Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame induction
- Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the ESPYs in 2013
- George Foster Peabody Award for her coverage of her battle with MDS
Robin Roberts has built strong professional relationships with many of her colleagues at Good Morning America and other projects. Some of her close colleagues include:
- George Stephanopoulos: Robin and George have worked closely together on Good Morning America. They share a strong bond and often support each other both on and off-air.
- Lara Spencer: Robin and Lara have developed a close friendship over the years. They often share personal stories and support each other through various life events.
- Amy Robach: Robin and Amy have a strong professional relationship, and Amy has been a supportive colleague, especially during significant moments like Robin’s health journey.
- T.J. Holmes: Robin has also worked closely with T.J. Holmes on GMA3: What You Need to Know. They have developed a professional rapport over the years.
- Dr. Jennifer Ashton: Robin and Jennifer have a close friendship, and Jennifer has been a significant part of the GMA team. Jennifer recently announced her departure from ABC to focus on her new wellness company, Ajenda.
Net Worth and Salary:
Robin Roberts’ net worth is estimated to be $55 million as of 2025. This impressive figure is a result of her long and successful career in broadcasting, spanning over three decades.
Robin Roberts earns an annual salary of $18 million as the co-anchor of Good Morning America.
This makes her one of the highest-paid television hosts in the industry. Her salary has increased over the years, reflecting her value and contributions to the show.
Career Earnings
Robin’s career earnings have been substantial, with significant milestones including:
- ESPN: Robin spent 15 years at ESPN, where she became one of the most recognizable sportscasters.
- Good Morning America: Since joining GMA in 2005, Robin has been a key figure in the show’s success, contributing to its rise in ratings and multiple awards.
- Other Projects: Robin has also been involved in various other projects, including hosting the Academy Awards pre-show and covering major events like Hurricane Katrina and the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
Investments and Endorsements
In addition to her salary, Robin Roberts has likely earned from investments and endorsements, further contributing to her net worth.
Her public image and popularity have made her a valuable spokesperson for various brands.
Financial Management
Robin’s financial success is also a testament to her smart financial management and the support of her team of financial advisors.
She has been able to maintain and grow her wealth over the years, ensuring long-term financial stability.
What Was Robin Roberts’ Disease?
Robin Roberts was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), a rare blood and bone marrow disease once known as preleukemia.
MDS affects the bone marrow’s ability to produce healthy blood cells, leading to infections, anemia, and bleeding. Roberts underwent chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant, with her sister Sally-Ann being the donor.
Who is Replacing Robin Roberts?
When Robin Roberts took medical leave for her treatment, George Stephanopoulos and Sam Champion were among those who filled in for her on “Good Morning America.”
Did Robin Roberts Play Professional Basketball?
Yes, Robin Roberts had a brief professional basketball career before transitioning into broadcasting. She played for the New Orleans Jazz in the NBA during the 1976-77 season.
Is Robin Roberts Married?
Yes, Robin Roberts is married to Amber Laign, a massage therapist. They officially tied the knot in 2023.
How Old Is Robin Roberts?
As of 2025, Robin Roberts is 64 years old, having been born on November 23, 1960.
Where Is Robin Roberts Working?
Robin Roberts is currently working as a co-anchor on ABC’s Good Morning America. She continues to be a prominent figure on the show, contributing to its success and engaging with viewers every morning.
In addition to her role on GMA, Robin is also the founder of Rock’n Robin Productions, a production company that creates content for TV and movies.
One of her latest projects is a biopic about singer Gloria Gaynor, set to air on Lifetime in 2025.
Yes, Robin Roberts is quite active on social media. She frequently shares updates and interacts with her fans on platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
On Instagram, she has a substantial following and often posts about her personal life, career milestones, and motivational messages.
Her posts include everything from behind-the-scenes looks at Good Morning America to heartfelt messages and updates about her health journey.
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