Katy Tur is one of the most recognizable faces in American broadcast journalism, widely respected for her sharp reporting style, calm presence on live television, and deeply personal storytelling. Known for her work on MSNBC and NBC News, Katy Tur has become a trusted voice covering national politics, breaking news, and long-form narrative journalism.
Quick Bio
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Katy Tur |
| Profession | Journalist, News Anchor, Author |
| Known For | MSNBC anchor, NBC News correspondent |
| Birthdate | October 26, 1983 |
| Age | 41 years old (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | University of California, Santa Barbara (BA in Philosophy) |
| Parents | Zoey Tur and Marika Gerrard |
| Spouse | Tony Dokoupil |
| Children | Two children |
| Books | Unbelievable (2017), Rough Draft (2022) |
Early Life and Background

Katy Tur was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, growing up in a home surrounded by journalism, storytelling, and the fast pace of breaking news. Her parents, Zoey Tur and Marika Gerrard, were both well-known journalists who co-founded the Los Angeles News Service. Their helicopter coverage of live events became iconic in the 1980s and 1990s, and young Katy often witnessed the energy and chaos of news reporting firsthand. This early exposure shaped her understanding of journalism and planted the seeds for her future career. Despite the exciting environment, she also experienced challenges within her family life—moments she later addressed in her memoir, offering readers an intimate look at her upbringing.
Age and Date of Birth

Born on October 26, 1983, Katy Tur is 41 years old as of 2025. Over the years, she has grown into one of the most respected figures in political journalism. Her age reflects not only experience but also a career of steady, dedicated growth from local reporting to national recognition.
Education and Academic Journey

Katy Tur attended the University of California, Santa Barbara, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy in 2005. Although philosophy may seem unrelated to journalism, it played a huge role in shaping her analytical thinking, clarity of expression, and ability to ask deeper, more meaningful questions. During her college years, she strengthened her writing skills and learned how to dissect issues from different angles—skills that later defined her reporting style on major networks.
Physical Appearance
In public appearances and on television, Katy Tur is recognized for her professional yet warm presence. With blonde hair, expressive eyes, and a confident on-screen demeanor, she reflects the poise and steadiness expected of a national news anchor. While specific measurements are not publicly emphasized—nor necessary—her appearance aligns with her signature broadcasting style: polished, sincere, and approachable.
Family and Parents
Katy Tur comes from a family deeply rooted in journalism. Her parents, Zoey Tur (formerly Bob Tur) and Marika Gerrard, made history as pioneers of aerial news coverage in Los Angeles. Their team captured some of the most widely broadcast events of the era, including the O.J. Simpson car chase. Growing up around such intense reporting experiences influenced Katy’s understanding of media responsibility. Although her relationship with her father was complex—a topic she addresses thoughtfully in her book Rough Draft—her upbringing undeniably shaped her courage, tenacity, and commitment to truth-seeking journalism.
Career Beginnings
Before becoming a national figure, Katy Tur worked at several local stations, including KTLA, News 12 Brooklyn, and HD News/Cablevision. She also worked at The Weather Channel, showcasing her adaptability by reporting from the field during challenging and sometimes dangerous weather events. These early roles helped her build experience in live reporting, field coverage, and fast-moving breaking news situations—skills that would later prove essential.
Rise to Prominence at NBC News
Katy Tur joined NBC News in 2009, which marked the beginning of her rise as a national correspondent. She quickly impressed audiences with her clear, concise reporting style and her ability to remain composed during high-stakes events. Her breakthrough moment came in 2015 when she became one of the leading correspondents covering Donald Trump’s presidential campaign. She was often at the center of intense political rallies, unexpected news developments, and challenging press interactions.
Her reporting during this period was widely praised for its accuracy and resilience. She later detailed this experience in her bestselling book Unbelievable, giving readers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most unusual political campaigns in American history. Today, she anchors on MSNBC, where her afternoon news program blends political analysis, breaking news coverage, and in-depth conversations.
Books and Writing Career
Along with her television career, Katy Tur is a successful author.
Her first book, Unbelievable, was released in 2017 and became a New York Times bestseller. It documents her experiences covering Trump’s 2016 campaign while also reflecting on the challenges of being a journalist under intense scrutiny.
Her second book, Rough Draft (2022), takes a more personal direction. In it, she explores her complicated relationship with her parents, her childhood experiences, and her path toward becoming a journalist. The memoir received praise for its honesty, emotional depth, and thoughtful storytelling.
Awards and Notable Achievements
Throughout her career, Katy Tur has received recognition for her excellence in journalism. Her coverage of breaking news events, political elections, and long-form narratives has earned her a place among respected national correspondents. While specific awards are often tied to network distinctions, her individual reporting has been widely acknowledged by peers, media critics, and viewers who appreciate her clarity, fairness, and professionalism.
Personal Life and Relationships

Katy Tur is married to Tony Dokoupil, a well-known journalist and co-anchor of CBS Mornings. The couple married in 2017 and share two children. Katy is also a stepmother to Tony’s two children from a previous relationship. Together, they represent one of the most recognized journalist couples in American media, balancing demanding careers with family life. Katy has spoken openly about the challenges and joys of modern parenting, career pressures, and juggling work-life balance.
Public Image and Influence
Over the years, Katy Tur has built a strong public image rooted in trust, authenticity, and steady reporting. Viewers appreciate her ability to deliver complex political stories with clarity and honesty. She is known for her calm tone, balanced perspective, and willingness to speak candidly about personal experiences. Her influence extends beyond television—many aspiring journalists look to her as a model for navigating high-pressure reporting environments with integrity and composure.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
While exact financial details are not publicly confirmed, Katy Tur has built a successful career through her work with NBC News, MSNBC, and her published books. Her lifestyle appears centered around family, writing, and her professional role in journalism. She maintains a relatable public presence and often uses her platform to address meaningful topics such as press freedom, gender dynamics in journalism, and the challenges of modern media.
Conclusion
Katy Tur stands as one of the most influential journalists of her generation—an anchor, author, and storyteller who brings depth, humanity, and clarity to every story she covers. From her early life in a groundbreaking news family to her rise as a national correspondent and respected anchor, her career reflects resilience, dedication, and a profound commitment to truth. Through her books, her reporting, and her public voice, she continues to shape the landscape of American journalism.
FAQs
Who is Katy Tur?
Katy Tur is an American journalist, news anchor, and bestselling author known for her work on MSNBC and NBC News.
Where was Katy Tur born?
She was born in Los Angeles, California, into a family of pioneering journalists.
What is Katy Tur known for?
She is widely known for her political reporting, especially her coverage of the 2016 presidential campaign.
Who are Katy Tur’s parents?
Her parents are Zoey Tur and Marika Gerrard, founders of the Los Angeles News Service.
Is Katy Tur married?
Yes, she is married to journalist Tony Dokoupil, co-anchor of CBS Mornings.
Does Katy Tur have children?
She has two children with her husband and is also a stepmother to his older children.
What books has Katy Tur written?
She wrote Unbelievable, a bestseller, and Rough Draft, a memoir about her life and family.
What network does Katy Tur work for?
She works for NBC News and anchors a program on MSNBC.
How did Katy Tur start her career?
She began at local stations such as KTLA and later joined NBC as a correspondent.
What makes Katy Tur influential?
Her honest reporting, calm on-air presence, and personal storytelling have made her a respected voice in American journalism.
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