“Journalism is about uncovering the truth and giving a voice to those who need it most.” — Karen Drew
Karen Drew is an American journalist best known as an anchor and investigative reporter at WDIV Local 4 (NBC affiliate) in Detroit, Michigan. Born September 18, 1970, in Chicago, Illinois, Drew has built a career spanning more than two decades, recognized for her Emmy Award–winning investigative work and her role as co‑anchor of Local 4 News. She is admired for her fearless reporting, community involvement, and dedication to Detroit viewers.
Timeline Overview
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1970 | Born September 18 in Chicago, Illinois |
| Childhood | Raised in Illinois; developed interest in journalism |
| College | Attended Southern Illinois University – B.A. in Radio/Television Communications |
| Early Career | Began reporting in Illinois and Florida |
| 1998 | Joined WDIV Local 4 in Detroit as reporter |
| 2000s | Became investigative reporter, earning Emmy Awards |
| 2010s | Promoted to anchor; co‑hosted Local 4 News |
| Present | Evening anchor and investigative reporter at WDIV Local 4 |
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Karen Drew |
| Birthdate | September 18, 1970 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Age | 55 years (as of 2026) |
| Height | Approx. 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m) |
| Education | Southern Illinois University – B.A. Radio/Television Communications |
| Profession | Journalist, anchor, investigative reporter |
| Employer | WDIV Local 4 (NBC Detroit) |
| Parents | Names not publicly disclosed |
| Siblings | Not publicly disclosed |
| Spouse | Married to Paul Drew |
| Children | Two daughters |
| Awards | Emmy Awards; Associated Press honors |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1–2 million |
| Salary | Approx. $80,000–$150,000 annually |
| Social Media | Active on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook |
Early Life & Education
Karen Drew was born in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in the Midwest. She attended Southern Illinois University, graduating with a degree in Radio/Television Communications. Her early interest in storytelling and investigative work shaped her career path.
Career Background
Drew began her career reporting in Illinois and Florida before joining WDIV Local 4 in Detroit in 1998. She quickly became known for her investigative reporting, exposing fraud, corruption, and community issues.
Her Emmy Award–winning work established her as one of Detroit’s most respected journalists. She later transitioned into anchoring, becoming co‑anchor of Local 4 News. Drew continues to balance anchoring with investigative reporting, delivering trusted news to Detroit audiences.
Achievements
- Emmy Award–winning investigative journalist
- Anchor of Local 4 News in Detroit
- Recognized by Associated Press and other journalism organizations
- More than 25 years in broadcast journalism
Personal Life
Karen Drew is married to Paul Drew, and the couple has two daughters. She keeps her family life relatively private but is known for her strong ties to Detroit and her active role in community events.

Legacy
Karen Drew’s legacy lies in her commitment to investigative journalism and Detroit viewers. Her Emmy‑winning work and trusted presence on Local 4 News have made her a household name in Michigan. She continues to inspire future journalists with her dedication to truth and community service.
Karen Drew — FAQ (Journalist / Media Personality)
Who is Karen Drew? She is an American journalist, anchor, and investigative reporter at WDIV Local 4 in Detroit.
When was she born? September 18, 1970, in Chicago, Illinois.
Where did she study? Southern Illinois University, earning a degree in Radio/Television Communications.
What networks has she worked for? Local stations in Illinois and Florida, and WDIV Local 4 in Detroit.
What awards has she won? Emmy Awards and Associated Press honors.
Is she married? Yes, to Paul Drew.
Does she have children? Yes, two daughters.
What is her net worth and salary? Net worth estimated at $1–2 million; annual salary approx. $80,000–$150,000.
What is she known for? Her Emmy‑winning investigative journalism and anchoring Local 4 News.
How long has she been at WDIV? Since 1998, more than 25 years.
Colleagues & Collaborators
- Devin Scillian – WDIV anchor
- Rhonda Walker – WDIV morning anchor
- Jason Colthorp – WDIV anchor/reporter
- Kim Adams – WDIV meteorologist
- Grant Hermes – WDIV reporter
- Priya Mann – WDIV reporter
- Rod Meloni – WDIV business editor
Together, Karen Drew and her colleagues form the backbone of WDIV Local 4’s newsroom, delivering trusted news and investigative reports to Detroit audiences.









