“Television is about trust—inviting viewers into your life while telling the stories that shape theirs.” — Alicia Vitarelli
Alicia Vitarelli is an Emmy-nominated anchor and reporter best known for her work at 6ABC Action News (WPVI-TV) in Philadelphia. With more than two decades in broadcasting, she has become a familiar and trusted face, blending hard news coverage with lifestyle programming. Her career reflects versatility, professionalism, and a passion for connecting with audiences both on-screen and in the community.
Timeline Overview
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1978 | Born in New York City, USA |
| 2000 | Graduated from Villanova University with degrees in Communications, Spanish, and Theater |
| Early 2000s | Earned Master’s in Broadcast Journalism from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism |
| 2000s | Began career at NY1 News in New York City |
| 2003–2010 | Anchor and reporter at News 12 New Jersey |
| 2008–2010 | Host and producer of “Buck Wild” (food/lifestyle show) |
| 2010 | Joined 6ABC Action News in Philadelphia |
| Present | Co-anchors Action News and contributes to lifestyle segments |
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Alicia Vitarelli |
| Date of Birth | 1978 |
| Age | 47 (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | New York City, USA |
| Height | Approx. 5 ft 6 in |
| Education | Villanova University (BA in Communications, Spanish, Theater); Northwestern University – Medill School of Journalism (MA in Broadcast Journalism) |
| Profession | Anchor, Reporter, Lifestyle Host |
| Employer | 6ABC Action News (WPVI-TV Philadelphia) |
| Marital Status | Married to Matthew Pantaleno (since 2007) |
| Children | One daughter |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1–2 million |
| Salary | Estimated $85,000–$150,000 annually |
Early Life & Education
Alicia Vitarelli was born in New York City in 1978. She grew up with a passion for storytelling and performance, which led her to pursue multiple disciplines at Villanova University, where she earned degrees in Communications, Spanish, and Theater.
Her academic journey continued at the prestigious Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University, where she earned her Master’s in Broadcast Journalism. This combination of communication, language, and performance training gave her a unique edge in broadcast journalism, blending analytical skills with on-camera presence.
Career Background
Vitarelli began her career at NY1 News in New York City, covering local stories and honing her skills as a reporter. She later joined News 12 New Jersey, where she worked as an anchor and reporter for seven years.
During her time at News 12, she also hosted and produced the lifestyle program “Buck Wild”, which focused on food, culture, and entertainment. This role showcased her versatility, allowing her to move seamlessly between hard news and lighter, lifestyle-oriented content.
In 2010, Vitarelli joined 6ABC Action News in Philadelphia, where she quickly became a prominent anchor and reporter. She has covered breaking news, community events, and special features, while also contributing to lifestyle segments that highlight food, fashion, and culture.
Her approachable style and ability to connect with viewers have made her a trusted presence in Philadelphia media.

Achievements
- Emmy-nominated anchor and reporter
- Co-anchor of 6ABC Action News in Philadelphia
- Host and producer of “Buck Wild” lifestyle program
- Coverage of major breaking news events across New Jersey and Pennsylvania
- Recognized for her versatility in both hard news and lifestyle reporting
Personal Life
Alicia Vitarelli married Matthew Pantaleno, Chief Photographer at News 12 New Jersey, in 2007. The couple has one daughter. Vitarelli often shares glimpses of her family life with viewers, balancing her demanding career with motherhood.
She is also active in community events and charitable initiatives, reflecting her commitment to giving back to the audiences she serves.
Salary & Net Worth
- Salary: Estimated $85,000–$150,000 annually
- Net Worth: Estimated $1–2 million, reflecting her long career in broadcast journalism and lifestyle hosting
Legacy
Alicia Vitarelli’s legacy lies in her versatility and relatability as a journalist. She has successfully navigated the demands of hard news reporting while also embracing lifestyle programming, making her a multi-dimensional media personality.
Her career reflects the evolution of local news anchors into multi-platform figures, engaging audiences not only through traditional broadcasts but also through digital and community outreach.
By combining professionalism with warmth, Vitarelli has become one of Philadelphia’s most respected broadcasters. Her influence extends beyond the newsroom, as she continues to inspire young journalists and demonstrate the importance of authenticity in media.









