“Journalism is about trust—being there for viewers day after day.” — Monica Gayle
Monica Gayle is an American broadcast journalist best known for her long career as a news anchor at FOX 2 Detroit (WJBK‑TV). Born March 3, 1960, in Washington State, Gayle anchored evening newscasts for nearly 30 years before retiring in 2022 alongside longtime colleague Huel Perkins. She is recognized for her Emmy Award–winning reporting, professionalism, and dedication to Detroit audiences.
Timeline Overview
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1960 | Born March 3 in Washington State |
| Childhood | Raised in Washington; developed interest in journalism |
| College | Attended Washington State University – B.A. Broadcast Journalism |
| Early Career | Began reporting and anchoring in Spokane, Washington |
| 1980s | Worked at CBS affiliates in Michigan and Washington |
| 1990s | Joined CBS News, anchoring national broadcasts |
| 1997 | Joined FOX 2 Detroit as evening anchor |
| 2000s–2020s | Anchored FOX 2 Detroit evening newscasts with Huel Perkins |
| 2022 | Retired after nearly 30 years at FOX 2 Detroit |
| Present | Enjoying retirement, community involvement, and mentoring young journalists |
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Monica Gayle |
| Birthdate | March 3, 1960 |
| Birthplace | Washington State, USA |
| Age | 65 years (as of 2026) |
| Height | Approx. 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m) |
| Education | Washington State University – B.A. Broadcast Journalism |
| Profession | Journalist, anchor (retired) |
| Employer | FOX 2 Detroit (1997–2022) |
| Spouse | Married (husband’s name not publicly disclosed) |
| Children | One son |
| Awards | Emmy Awards; Associated Press honors |
| Net Worth | Estimated $2–3 million |
| Salary | Approx. $80,000–$150,000 annually (during career) |
Early Life & Education
Monica Gayle was born in Washington State and raised in the Pacific Northwest. She attended Washington State University, graduating with a degree in Broadcast Journalism. Her early interest in storytelling and communication led her to pursue a career in television news.
Career Background
Gayle began her career in Spokane, Washington, before moving to larger markets. She worked at CBS affiliates in Michigan and Washington, eventually joining CBS News, where she anchored national broadcasts.
In 1997, she joined FOX 2 Detroit, where she became one of the station’s most recognizable anchors. For nearly 25 years, she co‑anchored evening newscasts alongside Huel Perkins, forming one of Detroit’s most trusted anchor teams.
Her career highlights include coverage of presidential elections, local crises, and community stories. She retired in March 2022, marking the end of an era in Detroit broadcasting.
Achievements
- Emmy Award–winning journalist
- Anchored FOX 2 Detroit evening newscasts for nearly 30 years
- Covered major national and local stories with professionalism and trust
- Recognized by the Associated Press and other journalism organizations
Personal Life
Monica Gayle is married and has one son. She keeps her family life private but remains active in community events and mentoring young journalists.
Legacy
Monica Gayle’s legacy lies in her commitment to Detroit viewers and her professionalism as a broadcaster. Her partnership with Huel Perkins defined FOX 2 Detroit’s newsroom for decades, and her Emmy‑winning work continues to inspire future journalists.

Monica Gayle — FAQ (Journalist / Media Personality)
Who is Monica Gayle? She is a retired American journalist and anchor, best known for her career at FOX 2 Detroit.
When was she born? March 3, 1960, in Washington State.
Where did she study? Washington State University, earning a degree in Broadcast Journalism.
What shows has she anchored? FOX 2 Detroit evening newscasts, CBS News broadcasts, and local news in Spokane.
Is she married? Yes, she is married and has one son.
What awards has she won? She has won Emmy Awards and Associated Press honors.
What is her net worth and salary? Her net worth is estimated at $2–3 million, with an annual salary during her career of $80,000–$150,000.
What is she known for? Her Emmy‑winning journalism, long career at FOX 2 Detroit, and trusted partnership with Huel Perkins.
When did she retire? She retired in March 2022 after nearly 30 years at FOX 2 Detroit.
Colleagues & Collaborators
- Huel Perkins – longtime co‑anchor at FOX 2 Detroit
- Roop Raj – FOX 2 Detroit anchor
- Amy Andrews – FOX 2 Detroit morning anchor
- Josh Landon – FOX 2 Detroit reporter/anchor
- Charlie Langton – FOX 2 Detroit legal analyst
- Taryn Asher – FOX 2 Detroit evening anchor
- Hilary Golston – FOX 2 Detroit reporter/anchor
- Lee Thomas – FOX 2 Detroit entertainment reporter
Together, Monica Gayle and her colleagues shaped FOX 2 Detroit’s newsroom, delivering trusted news and analysis to Michigan audiences.









