Ellen Leyva, a respected American news anchor, has been a familiar face on Los Angeles' ABC7 Eyewitness News since 1995. Known for her bilingual reporting and deep connection with the community, Leyva co-anchored the 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. newscasts alongside David Ono. In early 2025, she announced her retirement after nearly three decades, marking the end of an era and sparking renewed interest in her life and career.
Searches for “Ellen Leyva wiki,” “Ellen Leyva biography,” and “Ellen Leyva personal life” have surged as fans reflect on her impactful journey.
Ellen Leyva's retirement announcement in February 2025 garnered widespread media attention. Her heartfelt farewell on ABC7 highlighted her gratitude for the viewers and colleagues who supported her over the years. The news was covered extensively, with many praising her contributions to journalism and the community.
Additionally, her social media posts reflecting on her career milestones and personal growth have resonated with fans, further amplifying her presence in the public discourse.
Early Life, Family Background & Education of Ellen Leyva
Born on January 10, 1963, in Tucson, Arizona, Ellen Leyva is 62 years old as of 2025. Her zodiac sign is Capricorn, and she holds American nationality. Growing up in a bilingual household, Leyva spent considerable time in Mexico with her mother's family, enriching her cultural perspective.
Her father, Thomas Kraemer Lundy, was a high school math and science teacher who served in the army for two years. Her mother, Emma Leyva Duarte, was a Mexican immigrant who passed away in 2016. Leyva has a sister named Cindy.
Ellen Leyva stands approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighs approximately 60 kg. She pursued higher education at Arizona State University, earning a degree in broadcast journalism. In recognition of her professional achievements, she was inducted into the Walter Cronkite School of Broadcast Journalism's Hall of Fame in 2006.
Personal Life & Relationships of Ellen Leyva
Beyond the newsroom lights and evening broadcasts, Ellen Leyva’s personal life tells the story of enduring love, family values, and heartfelt advocacy. While millions have watched her deliver the news with grace and authority, few know the quiet strength behind her success: her husband, her children, and her unwavering commitment to a meaningful life outside television.
Ellen met her husband, Mark Hair, during the early stages of her journalism career while reporting in Arizona. Mark, a decorated F-15 fighter pilot in the United States Air Force, caught Ellen’s attention not just for his military accomplishments but for his grounded character. Their connection was immediate, and in 1990, the couple married, beginning a partnership that would weather decades of professional demands and personal milestones. After retiring from active duty, Mark transitioned to a career in commercial aviation, allowing the couple to maintain a balanced home life while continuing to pursue their respective careers.
Ellen Levya with her husband, David Ono
The couple is blessed with two daughters, Emma and Audrey, who have remained largely out of the public eye—something Ellen has always been intentional about. As a public figure, she has openly spoken about the importance of maintaining a sense of normalcy and privacy for her children. Despite her demanding schedule as a news anchor, Ellen prioritized school events, family dinners, and weekend getaways, setting an example of work-life balance that resonated with many working mothers.
Ellen's dedication to family extends beyond her household. She has spoken affectionately about her late mother, Emma Leyva Duarte, a Mexican immigrant who instilled in her a deep appreciation for culture, resilience, and bilingualism. Her mother’s influence continues to shape Ellen’s personal identity and passion for community service, especially in Hispanic and underserved communities.
In recent years, Ellen has also become an advocate for animal rescue, a cause close to her heart. She adopted a lovable dog named Charli, who quickly became a cherished member of the family. Through her involvement with Wags and Walks, a non-profit animal rescue organization based in Los Angeles, Ellen has used her platform to promote pet adoption and responsible pet ownership.
Her philanthropic spirit doesn’t stop there. Over the years, Ellen Leyva has championed causes related to mental health, children’s healthcare, and heart disease awareness. She has supported organizations like Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Pacific Clinics, and the American Heart Association, combining her public visibility with purposeful action. Her community involvement has helped bridge the gap between news coverage and community care, embodying her role not just as a journalist but as a true community ambassador.
Today, as Ellen steps back from her professional duties following her retirement from ABC7 in 2025, she continues to find joy in spending more time with her husband, nurturing her family, and expanding her outreach work. For Ellen Leyva, life has never been just about the headlines—it's always been about heart.
Net Worth, Income Sources & Lifestyle in 2025
As of 2025, Ellen Leyva's estimated net worth is around $3 million. Her income primarily stems from her long-standing role at ABC7, where experienced anchors in major markets like Los Angeles can earn substantial salaries. Additional revenue sources include speaking engagements and potential endorsements.
Leyva maintains a balanced lifestyle, focusing on meaningful experiences over extravagance. Her philanthropic efforts are notable; she has been involved with organizations such as the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, the American Heart Association, and Pacific Clinics, advocating for mental health services and community support.
Ellen Leyva's Broadcasting Career and Achievements
Ellen Leyva began her broadcasting career in Arizona before joining ABC7 in Los Angeles in 1995. Initially serving as a health reporter, she quickly advanced to co-anchor roles for various newscasts, including morning and midday segments. Her fluency in Spanish allowed her to connect deeply with Los Angeles' diverse communities, enhancing her reporting's reach and impact.
Throughout her career, Leyva covered significant events and stories, earning accolades such as the Impact Award for Excellence in Television from the National Hispanic Media Coalition. Notably, she co-hosted the Oscars red carpet arrivals with Roger Ebert and participated in unique assignments like flying with the Blue Angels.
After nearly 30 years at ABC7, Leyva announced her retirement in early 2025, expressing a desire to explore new adventures while cherishing the memories and relationships built during her tenure.
TL;DR Summary
Who is she? Ellen Leyva is a veteran American news anchor known for her work with ABC7 in Los Angeles.
Why trending? Her retirement in 2025 after nearly 30 years has brought renewed attention to her career.
Career: Joined ABC7 in 1995, served as a health reporter, and co-anchored major newscasts.
Relationship: Married to former F-15 pilot Mark Hair; they have two daughters.
Net worth: Estimated at $3 million in 2025.
Age & origin: Born in 1963 in Tucson, Arizona; currently 62 years old.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ellen Leyva
What is Ellen Leyva’s age and zodiac?
Ellen Leyva is 62 years old as of 2025, born on January 10, making her a Capricorn.
Who is Ellen Leyva married to?
She is married to Mark Hair, a former F-15 fighter pilot turned commercial pilot.
What is Ellen Leyva’s net worth in 2025?
Her estimated net worth is approximately $3 million.
What are Ellen Leyva’s most notable works?
Leyva is renowned for co-anchoring ABC7 Eyewitness News and her contributions to health reporting and community engagement.
Is there a Wikipedia page for Ellen Leyva?
Yes, Ellen Leyva has a Wikipedia page detailing her career and personal background.
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