“The role of a journalist is to ask tough questions and bring clarity to complex issues.” — Zakka Jacob
Zakka Jacob is an Indian journalist and television anchor, best known as the Managing Editor of CNN‑News18. With a career spanning over two decades, Jacob has become one of India’s most respected news presenters, recognized for his calm, analytical style and his ability to cover both national and international events. He is also notable for being the first South Asian anchor on Chinese national television (CCTV).
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Zakka Jacob |
| Birthdate | Not publicly disclosed |
| Birthplace | India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Ethnicity | South Asian |
| Religion | Christian |
| Age | Mid‑40s (as of 2026) |
| Height | 5 ft 9 in (175 cm) |
| Hair | Black |
| Eyes | Brown |
| Education | Studied journalism and communications (specific institutions not widely publicized) |
| Profession | Journalist, Anchor, Managing Editor |
| Employer | CNN‑News18 |
| Residence | New Delhi, India |
| Years Active | 2003–Present |
| Awards | Two‑time Best News Presenter – Asian Television Awards |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1–2 million |
| Zodiac Sign | Not publicly disclosed |
Parents, Siblings & Relatives
- Parents: Not publicly documented.
- Siblings: Not publicly documented.
- Spouse/Children: Keeps family life private.
Early Life & Education
Jacob grew up in India and pursued journalism early in his career. His education in communications and journalism prepared him for the fast‑paced world of broadcast news. He entered the industry in 2003 and quickly rose to prominence as one of the youngest anchors on Indian television.
Career Journey
Jacob began at Headlines Today, where he covered major events including the Asian Tsunami (2004) and the Mumbai terror attacks (2008). In 2011, he joined CCTV in Beijing, becoming the first South Asian anchor on Chinese national television, where he reported on China’s leadership transition and global affairs.
Returning to India in 2014, Jacob joined CNN‑News18, where he became a familiar face to viewers. In 2016, he was appointed Managing Editor, overseeing editorial direction while continuing to anchor prime‑time news. His calm, analytical style has earned him respect across the industry.
Major Works
- Coverage of the Asian Tsunami (2004)
- Reporting on the Mumbai terror attacks (2008)
- Anchoring China’s leadership transition at CCTV (2011)
- Managing Editor and anchor at CNN‑News18 (2016–Present)
Awards & Recognition
- Asian Television Award – Best News Presenter (twice)
- Recognition for international reporting and anchoring excellence
Public Persona & Style
Zakka Jacob is known for:
- Calm, analytical anchoring style
- Ability to handle complex political and international issues
- Professionalism and credibility in journalism
- Leadership in shaping CNN‑News18’s editorial voice
Lifestyle & Personal Insights
Jacob resides in New Delhi, India, balancing his editorial leadership with anchoring duties. He maintains a private personal life while remaining a visible figure in Indian media.
Physical Appearance
Zakka Jacob has a medium build, standing at 5 ft 9 in (175 cm). He has black hair, brown eyes, and a composed, professional television presence.
Salary & Net Worth
His estimated net worth is $1–2 million, primarily from his broadcasting career and editorial leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Zakka Jacob? He is the Managing Editor and anchor at CNN‑News18.
Where did Zakka Jacob work before CNN‑News18? He worked at Headlines Today and CCTV Beijing.
What awards has Zakka Jacob won? He is a two‑time winner of the Asian Television Award for Best News Presenter.
Is Zakka Jacob married? He keeps his personal life private.
Related Figures
- Rajdeep Sardesai Biography
- Arnab Goswami Biography
- Ravish Kumar Biography
- Nidhi Razdan Biography
- Sagarika Ghose Biography
Legacy
Zakka Jacob’s legacy lies in his trailblazing role as the first South Asian anchor on Chinese national television, his award‑winning anchoring style, and his leadership in shaping CNN‑News18 as one of India’s leading news networks.
Timeline Overview
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2003 | Began career at Headlines Today, the youngest newscaster on a major Indian channel |
| 2004 | Covered the Asian tsunami live |
| 2008 | Reported extensively on the Mumbai terror attacks |
| 2011 | Joined CCTV Beijing, becoming the first South Asian anchor on Chinese national TV |
| 2014 | Returned to India, joined CNN‑News18 |
| 2016–Present | Serving as Managing Editor of CNN‑News18 |
Interesting Facts
- He was the youngest newscaster on a major Indian channel in 2003.
- He covered the Asian Tsunami live in 2004.
- He became the first South Asian anchor on Chinese national TV in 2011.
- He has won the Asian Television Award for Best News Presenter twice.
- He is currently Managing Editor of CNN‑News18.
Sources
- CNN‑News18 staff profiles
- Asian Television Awards records
- Media interviews and coverage