“Connecting with people is the heart of storytelling.” — Val Warner
Val Warner is an American television host, journalist, and Emmy Award winner, best known for her work with ABC7 Chicago as co‑host of Windy City Weekend and former co‑host of Windy City LIVE. With her warmth, humor, and dedication to community engagement, she has become one of Chicago’s most beloved media personalities.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Valerie “Val” Warner |
| Birthdate | March 11, 1974 |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Age | 51 years (as of 2026) |
| Height | 5 ft 8 in (173 cm) |
| Hair | Black |
| Eyes | Brown |
| Education | University of California, San Diego (B.A. Communications) |
| Profession | Television Host, Journalist |
| Employer | ABC7 Chicago |
| Residence | Chicago, Illinois |
| Years Active | 2002–Present |
| Awards | Multiple Chicago Emmy Awards |
| Net Worth | Estimated $2–3.5 million |
| Zodiac Sign | Pisces ♓ |
Parents, Siblings & Relatives
- Parents: Raised in Los Angeles; family roots in Chicago.
- Spouse: Married to Elijah “Jobba” Maxey Jr.
- Children: Two—Zoe Warner and Maxwell Warner.
Early Life & Education
Warner grew up in South Central Los Angeles, where she was inspired by journalist Pat Harvey’s visit to her high school. She pursued communications at the University of California, San Diego, graduating in 1996.
Career Journey
Val Warner began her career in local reporting before joining ABC7 Chicago in 2005. She co‑hosted Windy City LIVE for a decade, interviewing celebrities such as Michelle Obama, Chance the Rapper, and Spike Lee.
She currently anchors ABC7 Eyewitness News at 6 a.m. and the 7 a.m. streaming show, while co‑hosting Windy City Weekend. Her special programming on bullying, breast cancer, and violence prevention helped ABC7 secure three Chicago Emmy Awards, and she personally won an Emmy for Countdown Chicago.
Major Works
- Windy City LIVE (2011–2021)
- Windy City Weekend (2017–Present)
- Emmy‑winning Countdown Chicago
Awards & Recognition
- Multiple Chicago Emmy Awards
- Honored for community service and charitable work
Public Persona & Style
Val Warner is known for:
- Warm, engaging personality
- Humor and relatability in interviews
- Dedication to Chicago community service
Lifestyle & Personal Insights
Warner resides in Chicago, Illinois, focusing on her family and community involvement. She volunteers with organizations such as Make‑A‑Wish Foundation, Chicago Bulls Charities, and South Suburban Family Shelter.
Physical Appearance
Tall, standing at approximately 5 ft 8 in (173 cm), with black hair and brown eyes, presenting a polished, approachable television presence.
Salary & Net Worth
Her estimated net worth is $2–3.5 million, primarily from her career in broadcasting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Val Warner? She is an Emmy‑winning host and journalist at ABC7 Chicago.
What shows has she hosted? Windy City LIVE and Windy City Weekend.
Is Val Warner married? Yes, to Elijah “Jobba” Maxey Jr.
Related Figures
Legacy
Val Warner’s legacy lies in her role as a trusted Chicago broadcaster, her Emmy‑winning contributions to ABC7, and her commitment to community service and uplifting local voices.
Timeline Overview
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1974 | Born March 11 in Los Angeles, California |
| 1996 | Graduated from University of California, San Diego (B.A. Communications) |
| 2005 | Joined ABC7 Chicago |
| 2011–2021 | Co‑hosted Windy City LIVE |
| 2017–Present | Co‑host of Windy City Weekend |
| 2026 | Continues anchoring ABC7 Eyewitness News morning broadcasts |
Sources
- ABC7 Chicago archives
- University of California, San Diego alumni records
- Chicago Emmy Awards coverage
Interesting Facts
- Inspired by journalist Pat Harvey in high school.
- Interviewed Michelle Obama and Chance the Rapper.
- Won Emmy for Countdown Chicago.
- Active in community service organizations.
- Her zodiac sign is Pisces.
Follow Val Warner On Social Media Pages: X (Twitter) | Facebook | Instagram