Jeannette Reyes Biography: Age, Height, Husband Robert Burton, Career, FOX 5 DC, Why She Is Famous, TikTok Success & Facts

Jeannette Reyes is an award-winning American journalist, news anchor, and social media sensation who has redefined what it means to be a modern media personality. Best known for her tenure as a morning anchor at FOX 5 DC and her viral “anchor voice” videos, this Jeannette Reyes biography explores the life of a woman who successfully bridged the gap between traditional broadcast news and digital stardom. Whether you recognize her from the breaking news desk or your TikTok “For You” page, her journey from a daughter of immigrants to a household name is a testament to talent, hard work, and authenticity.

Quick Facts

Early Life & Education

Childhood

Jeannette Reyes was born and raised in Providence, Rhode Island. Growing up in a vibrant Dominican household, she was the daughter of immigrants who moved to the United States in search of better opportunities. Her upbringing was bilingual, and she remains fluent in Spanish, a skill that would later become a cornerstone of her journalistic career.

From a young age, Jeannette was a communicator. Her family often notes that she had a natural curiosity about the world around her. Growing up in a community with diverse backgrounds, she noticed early on that the stories of people who looked like her were often missing from mainstream media. This realization planted the seed for her future career in broadcast journalism.

School Years

During her time in primary and secondary school in Rhode Island, Jeannette excelled in language arts and public speaking. She was known for being articulate and involved in community events. Unlike many children who change their career aspirations frequently, Jeannette focused on the idea of storytelling and news reporting from her mid-teens.

University & Training

To pursue her dreams, Jeannette moved to Ohio to attend Kent State University. She chose Kent State for its highly regarded School of Media and Journalism. During her college years, she didn’t just focus on textbooks; she threw herself into practical experience.

She worked for the student-run television station, TV2 KSU, where she honed her skills in reporting, editing, and anchoring. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Broadcast Journalism. Her time at Kent State was pivotal, as it provided her with the technical foundation to handle the high-pressure environment of live television.

Career Journey

Jeannette Reyes’s career is a masterclass in climbing the professional ladder through persistence and a willingness to relocate for the right opportunities.

Career Beginnings: Little Rock and Philadelphia

After graduation, Jeannette landed her first major professional role at KATV in Little Rock, Arkansas. As a general assignment reporter, she covered everything from local politics to breaking weather events. It was here that she developed her “boots-on-the-ground” reporting style, learning how to connect with viewers on a personal level.

In 2016, she made a significant move to WPVI-TV (6abc) in Philadelphia. Working in a top-ten media market was a major milestone. During her time in Philly, she became a beloved figure, known for her bilingual reporting. She famously covered Pope Francis’s visit to the city, providing reports in both English and Spanish, which allowed the station to reach a much broader demographic.

The Move to Washington D.C. and FOX 5 DC

In late 2020, Jeannette reached another career pinnacle by joining FOX 5 DC (WTTG) in Washington, D.C. She was hired as a morning anchor for “Good Day DC,” one of the most-watched morning slots in the nation’s capital. Her chemistry with co-anchors and her polished yet approachable delivery made her an instant favorite.

At FOX 5, she didn’t just report the news; she became part of the community. She used her platform to highlight Afro-Latino culture and issues affecting minority communities in the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) area.

TikTok Success and Digital Evolution

While her TV career was thriving, 2021 and 2022 saw Jeannette become a global digital star. Alongside her husband, Robert Burton, she began posting humorous videos on TikTok. Her most famous “bit” involved using her “News Anchor Voice” to narrate everyday domestic situations—like waking up her husband or talking to her newborn daughter, Isabella.

The “Baby News Anchor” video went viral worldwide, garnering tens of millions of views. This success proved that Jeannette was more than just a teleprompter reader; she was a creative content producer who understood the nuances of social media.

Career Transition (2023–2026)

In a move that surprised many traditional news fans, Jeannette announced she was leaving FOX 5 DC in late 2023. Her decision was fueled by a desire to have more flexibility for her family and to lean into her growing digital empire. By 2026, Jeannette has transitioned into a “Media Entrepreneur,” balancing brand partnerships, keynote speaking, and independent journalism projects while maintaining a massive social media presence.

Career Stats & Timeline

Net Worth & Earnings

As of 2026, Jeannette Reyes’s estimated net worth is between $2 million and $3 million. Her income is diversified across several high-earning streams:

• Broadcast Salaries: During her peak at FOX 5 DC, top-tier anchors in the DC market earned between $150,000 and $250,000 annually.
• Social Media Monetization: With millions of followers on TikTok and Instagram, Jeannette commands high rates for sponsored content. Industry experts estimate her “per post” rate for major brand deals ranges from $10,000 to $25,000.
• Brand Endorsements: She has collaborated with lifestyle, parenting, and fashion brands that align with her image as a professional mom.
• Public Speaking: Jeannette is a sought-after speaker for journalism conferences and diversity workshops.

Personal Life

Family Background

Jeannette is incredibly proud of her Dominican heritage. She frequently credits her parents for her work ethic. She is one of eleven children, which explains her ability to navigate large groups and her natural “team player” mentality in the newsroom.

Marriage & Spouse: Robert Burton

In 2016, Jeannette married Robert Burton, who is also a prominent news anchor in the Washington D.C. area (working for ABC7/WJLA). Their relationship is often referred to as a “News Power Couple.” The two frequently appear in each other’s social media videos, showcasing a playful and supportive dynamic that fans adore.

Children

In 2022, the couple welcomed their daughter, Isabella. Isabella became an overnight internet sensation when Jeannette used her professional anchor voice to describe the baby’s morning routine (“Coming up, we have a very explosive diaper…”). Jeannette often speaks about the challenges and joys of being a “working mom” in the public eye.

Hobbies & Interests

When she isn’t in front of a camera, Jeannette enjoys:

• Traveling: Particularly trips back to the Dominican Republic to visit family.
• Fitness: She maintains a healthy lifestyle and occasionally shares her workouts.
• Interior Design: She has shared glimpses of her home renovation projects on Instagram.

Awards & Achievements

• Emmy Award Winner: Recognized for her excellence in broadcast journalism and reporting.
• Top 40 Under 40: Named by several local publications in Philadelphia and DC.
• Social Media Excellence: Shorty Award nominee for her creative use of TikTok in journalism.
• Community Impact Award: For her work promoting Latino representation in media.

Physical Statistics

Jeannette Reyes is known for her impeccable style and professional presentation.

• Height: 5 feet 4 inches (162 cm)
• Weight: 130 lbs (59 kg)
• Hair: Naturally dark, often styled in professional waves or sleek bobs.
• Style: Known for vibrant colors that pop on camera, often favoring jewel tones like royal blue and emerald green.

Quotes

“Representation isn’t just about being on screen; it’s about the perspective you bring to the stories you tell.” — Jeannette Reyes, National Association of Hispanic Journalists Conference

“Yes, the news is serious, but we can’t forget the humanity and humor that connects us all.” — Social Media Caption, 2023

Favorites

• Food: Mangu (a traditional Dominican dish of mashed plantains).
• Color: Yellow and Red (bold colors for the anchor desk).
• Destination: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
• Book: Works focusing on history and social justice.

Interesting Facts

• Bilingual Mastery: She is 100% fluent in Spanish and often translates her own scripts.
• Huge Family: She is one of 11 siblings, making family gatherings quite an event.
• The “Voice”: She can “switch on” her professional anchor voice instantly, a skill that requires years of vocal training.
• Late Bloomer to Social Media: Despite her massive success, she didn’t take TikTok seriously until her husband encouraged her to post.
• Education Advocate: She frequently mentors young journalists from underrepresented backgrounds.
• Dog Lover: She has a family dog that often makes cameos in her “at home” videos.
• D.C. Resident: While she moves for work, she has expressed a deep love for the culture and history of Washington D.C.
• Non-Profit Work: She is involved with several literacy programs for children.

Did You Know?

• Did you know Jeannette and her husband Robert once competed in a “News Anchor Challenge” to see who could read a script faster without tripping over words?
• Did you know Jeannette’s “Baby News Anchor” video was featured on The Today Show and Good Morning America?
• Did you know she grew up in Rhode Island, the smallest state in the U.S., but moved to the South and the Midwest to build her career?
• Did you know Jeannette is a member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ)?

Social Media

• Instagram: @msjanreport
• TikTok: @msjanreport
• X (Twitter): @msjanreport
• Facebook: Jeannette Reyes Official
• YouTube: Jeannette Reyes & Robert Burton

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Why did Jeannette Reyes leave FOX 5 DC?
A1: Jeannette left FOX 5 DC in late 2023 to focus on her growing family, her personal brand, and new entrepreneurial ventures that allowed her a more flexible schedule than a morning news anchor position.

Q2: Who is Jeannette Reyes’ husband?
A2: Her husband is Robert Burton, a fellow news anchor who currently works for ABC7 in Washington, D.C.

Q3: Is Jeannette Reyes still a journalist?
A3: Yes. While she may not be behind a traditional local news desk every morning, she continues to work as a journalist through independent projects, digital storytelling, and hosting events.

Q4: What is Jeannette Reyes’ ethnicity?
A4: Jeannette is Afro-Latina. Her parents are originally from the Dominican Republic.

Q5: How did Jeannette Reyes become famous on TikTok?
A5: She became famous for her “News Anchor Voice” videos, where she used her professional broadcasting tone to narrate mundane household activities and talk to her baby.

CONCLUSION

Jeannette Reyes has successfully navigated the changing tides of the media industry. From her roots as a local reporter to her status as a digital powerhouse, she has remained a consistent voice of clarity, humor, and cultural pride. As she continues her journey in 2026 as an independent creator and media icon, her legacy as a trailblazer for Afro-Latina journalists is firmly established.

What is your favorite “News Anchor Voice” moment from Jeannette? Share this biography and let us know in the comments!

Source Data:

• National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ) Member Profiles
• FOX 5 DC (WTTG) Archive Records
• Kent State University Alumni Spotlight
• Official Social Media Verified Profiles (Instagram/TikTok)