Glenda Lewis Biography: Illness, Husband, Age | WXYZ-TV

Glenda Lewis Biography: WXYZ Anchor, Emmy Winner, & Detroit’s Mother-Daughter Anchor Team

Glenda Lewis is a five-time Emmy Award-winning journalist and co-anchor at WXYZ-TV Channel 7 in Detroit, Michigan.

Renowned for her professionalism, warmth, and dedication to storytelling, she has been a trusted face on Detroit television since joining the station on September 1, 2003.

Glenda is the daughter of legendary retired WXYZ anchor Diana Lewis, making broadcasting both a family legacy and a personal calling.

Early Life and Education

Born in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Glenda grew up watching her mother, Diana Lewis, anchor the news—a powerful influence that inspired her own path in broadcast journalism.

She graduated from Michigan State University in 1996 with a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising and Marketing and later completed professional broadcast training at the Specs Howard School of Broadcasting. Glenda is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and the NAACP.

Career Journey

Early Career

Glenda began her career at WBKB-TV in Alpena, Michigan, a small market that provided a foundation in nearly every aspect of news production—from assignment editing and videography to on-air reporting.

She went on to WLNS-TV in Lansing as a reporter and anchor before joining WJRT-TV (ABC 12) in Flint, where she co-anchored the station’s evening newscasts for five years. These early roles helped her develop the storytelling depth and journalistic integrity that would define her career.

WXYZ-TV Detroit

Glenda joined WXYZ-TV Channel 7 in 2003 as a general assignment reporter and quickly became a leading anchor for the station. She currently co-anchors 7 Action News at 5 p.m. on WXYZ-TV and 7 Action News at 10 p.m. on TV20 Detroit.

In 2004, she made history alongside her mother, Diana Lewis, when the two co-anchored a broadcast together—the first mother-daughter anchor team in U.S. television history. This groundbreaking moment was honored by the Detroit City Council and recognized by the Museum of Radio and Television History in New York City.

Awards and Recognition

Glenda Lewis has received five Emmy Awards, including one for Best Anchor—an honor poignantly presented to her by her mother.

Her accolades also include:

• Honoree, Michigan State University Distinguished Alumni (alongside journalist Jemele Hill)

• Woman of Excellence, Michigan Chronicle (2012)

• Recognition from the Detroit City Council for her historic contribution to local broadcasting

Community Involvement

Beyond the newsroom, Glenda is deeply involved in her community. She actively supports organizations that promote education, equality, and opportunity, including:

• Big Brothers Big Sisters

• United Negro College Fund

• Black United Fund

• MOTTEP Minority Organ and Tissue Transplant Education Program

• NAACP

• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Legacy and Personal Life

Glenda’s mother, Diana Lewis, was a beloved Detroit news icon for over 35 years and an Emmy Award winner herself. Their shared anchoring moment remains one of Detroit television’s proudest milestones.

Glenda’s sister, Donna Lewis, works in healthcare at Henry Ford Hospital, reflecting the family’s deep roots in service and community.

Through her career, Glenda Lewis continues to embody journalistic excellence, empathy, and leadership—making her one of Detroit’s most respected and admired broadcasters.

Glenda Lewis Age:

Glenda Lewis is 50 years old (born December 26, 1974, in Los Angeles, California). Her zodiac sign is Capricorn. She is African American and holds American nationality.

Glenda Lewis Parents and Siblings:

Glenda Lewis was born in Los Angeles, California, and raised in the Detroit area, where she grew up surrounded by the world of broadcasting.

Her mother, Diana Lewis, was a legendary WXYZ-TV anchor who spent 35 years on the air (1977–2012) and a total of 44 years in television news before retiring on October 3, 2012.

Diana, born in 1943 in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, was inducted into the Michigan Women’s Hall of Fame and remains active in Detroit’s community life.

Now in her 80s, she continues to collaborate with Glenda on charitable and civic projects, reflecting the family’s shared commitment to service.

Glenda’s father, Glenn Lewis, was a retired WXYZ editor and Vietnam War veteran, known for his dedication and quiet strength.

He passed away in January 2024 at age 79 after battling PTSD, dementia, and hearing loss. Following his retirement, Diana devoted herself to caring for him full-time.

As a child, Glenda frequently visited the WXYZ studios—fondly known as “Broadcast House”—often pretending to be on air, using a hairbrush as her microphone. She has one sister, Donna Lewis-Smith, and the family made their home in Farmington Hills, Michigan.

Together, Glenda and Donna helped relocate their beloved grandmother, Doris Spann, to Michigan for care in her later years; Doris lived to the remarkable age of 103, passing away in 2022.

Glenda Lewis Husband:

Glenda Lewis is married to Kahn Hall, an industrial designer. They got engaged in 2013 during a romantic dinner at the Skyline Club in Detroit, where Kahn surprised Glenda with a proposal.

The couple tied the knot on July 2, 2015, at Meadow Brook Hall in Rochester, Michigan. Their wedding wasan outdoor ceremony at the Pegasus Garden of Meadow Brook Hall in Rochester, Michigan.

Kahn Hall has a background in automotive design and business. He graduated from the Center for Creative Studies in Detroit with a degree in automotive design in 2003.

He later earned an MBA and an M.S. in finance from Walsh College in 2013. Kahn currently works as a program manager in seating operations at the Plymouth campus of Johnson Controls.

Despite Glenda’s health challenges, they continue to support each other and share their journey with their close-knit family and friends.

Glenda Lewis Daughter:

Glenda Lewis’s daughter is named Eve Hall, born on December 14, 2009. She’s close with her family, including grandmother Diana Lewis and cousin Audra Crawford, often joining family gatherings in Farmington Hills, Michigan.

Despite Glenda’s demanding career as a journalist and anchor, she has often expressed how motherhood is one of her most cherished roles, and Eve remains a central part of her life.

Glenda Lewis No Wedding Ring:

Occasional viewer speculation on forums has noted Glenda Lewis not wearing her wedding ring on air, sometimes linking it to rumors of marital issues or downsizing her home.

However, these are unsubstantiated; Lewis and Kahn Hall remain married as of 2025, with no confirmed divorce or separation reported in interviews or profiles.

Glenda Lewis Height:

Glenda Lewis WXYZ-TV Career Timeline:

1996: Educational Foundation

• Action: Graduates from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Advertising and Marketing. She then enrolls in the Specs Howard School of Broadcasting in Southfield, Michigan.

• Significance: This period marks her transition from a focus on the business side of media (Advertising and Marketing) to a passion for news production and delivery. Her enrollment in broadcasting school was the essential step to launching her on-air career.

1997: Entering the Broadcast World

• Action: Begins her professional career at WBKB-TV in Alpena, Michigan. She takes on multiple roles, including reporter, photographer, and assignment editor.

• Significance: Alpena was considered the smallest TV market in the U.S. This “boot camp” phase required her to work long, grueling 10-12 hour days, doing everything from developing stories to shooting and editing the footage. This experience was crucial for building her journalistic foundation and proving her commitment outside of the shadow of her famous mother.

Late 1990s: Moving Up the Ladder

• Action: Moves to WLNS-TV (Channel 6) in Lansing, Michigan, where she worked as a reporter and anchor.

• Significance: Moving to a larger market like Lansing demonstrated her professional growth and ability to handle more prominent on-air responsibilities, confirming her talent beyond the initial small market.

1998–2003: Establishing Herself in Flint

• Action: Joins WJRT-TV (ABC 12) in Flint, Michigan, serving for five years as co-anchor of the 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. newscasts.

• Significance: Her five years in Flint solidified her status as an experienced main anchor in a major Michigan market. This was her final proving ground, demonstrating her ability to lead prime-time newscasts before returning to Detroit.

September 1, 2003: Arriving in Detroit

• Action: Joins WXYZ-TV/Channel 7 in Detroit—the station where she grew up watching her mother work—as a general assignment reporter and co-anchor of Action News Sunday at 6 p.m. and 11 p.m..

• Significance: This move represented a “dream come true” for Glenda Lewis, as she had earned her place in the highly competitive Detroit market, not on her family name, but through her own successful career path.

2004: Making History

• Action: Co-anchors a news program with her mother, Diana Lewis, on WXYZ-TV.

• Significance: This moment made them Detroit’s first mother-daughter anchor team and is believed to be the first of its kind in the nation, cementing a unique place for both women in broadcast history.

Ongoing (as of 2025): Prominence and Recognition

• Action: Glenda Lewis is promoted to co-anchor of 7 Action News at 5 p.m. on Channel 7 and 7 Action News at 10 p.m. on TV20 Detroit. She is a recipient of multiple Emmy Awards, including the “Best Anchor” Emmy in 2012 (noted for being presented to her by her mother, Diana Lewis).

• Significance: As a main anchor for the station’s evening newscasts, she has become a fixture in Detroit news, covering major local events and issues. Her multiple Emmy Awards confirm her journalistic excellence and community impact, establishing her as an accomplished, highly-regarded journalist in her own right.

Notable Reports

Glenda Lewis has covered numerous significant events and stories throughout her career at WXYZ-TV. Here are some of her notable reports:

• Motor City Makeover: Glenda reported on the city’s efforts to clean up blight and improve the overall appearance of Detroit. This initiative aimed to make the city more attractive and livable for its residents.

• NFL Draft Coverage: She provided behind-the-scenes coverage of the NFL Draft held in Detroit, highlighting the final preparations and the excitement surrounding the event. Her reporting captured the energy and anticipation of the city as it prepared to host the draft.

• Exclusive Interview with Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer: Glenda conducted an exclusive interview with Governor Gretchen Whitmer, discussing her commitment to Michigan and her support for Vice President Kamala Harris. This interview provided valuable insights into the governor’s priorities and political stance.

• Community Engagement Stories: Glenda has been involved in various community organizations, such as Big Brothers/Big Sisters, United Negro College Fund, Black United Fund, MOTTEP Minority Organ and Tissue Transplant, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the NAACP. Her reporting often highlights the work of these organizations and their impact on the community.

Historic Achievement:

Glenda and her mother, Diana Lewis, are the first mother-and-daughter anchor team in the country, and they are part of the Museum of Radio and Television History in New York City.

Distinguished Alumni Award:

Glenda received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Michigan State University alongside sports reporter Jemele Hill.

Awards and Recognitions

Glenda Lewis has received numerous awards and honors throughout her career, reflecting her dedication and excellence in journalism. Here are some of the most notable ones:

• Emmy Awards: Glenda has won multiple Emmy Awards for her outstanding reporting and anchoring. Notably, she received one for Best Anchor, presented to her by her mother, Diana Lewis, who is also a legendary news anchor.

• Distinguished Alumni Award: Glenda received this award from Michigan State University, recognizing her achievements and contributions to the field of journalism.

• Woman of Excellence: In 2012, Glenda was honored by the Michigan Chronicle as a Woman of Excellence for her impactful work in the community and her dedication to journalism.

• Critical Race Scholar Award: Named in her memory, the Glenda Lewis Critical Race Scholar Award is given to graduate students conducting research on topics related to critical race scholarship. This award is a testament to her influence and legacy in the field of education and social justice.

Glenda Lewis’s awards and honors highlight her exceptional career and her commitment to making a difference through journalism. Her resilience and dedication continue to inspire many in the industry.

Glenda Lewis – Notable Colleagues at WXYZ-TV

These colleagues have worked alongside Glenda in various capacities, contributing to WXYZ-TV’s strong newsroom legacy.

Glenda Lewis Illness:

Glenda Lewis was diagnosed with Stage 4 Metastatic Bladder Cancer in October 2020.

Since her diagnosis, she has undergone several rounds of chemotherapy, but unfortunately, there has been minimal improvement in her tumors. The cancer has also spread to her liver, which has grown since her original scans.

Despite the challenges, Glenda has shown remarkable resilience and determination. She recently completed 12 rounds of chemotherapy and is now beginning a second round of immunotherapy.

Due to the severity of her illness, she has been unable to work and requires daily assistance with basic activities and medical care.

Glenda’s journey has been difficult, but she continues to fight with courage and grace. Her story has inspired many, and she has received support from friends, family, and the community to help her through this tough time.

Glenda Lewis Net Worth and Salary:

Glenda Lewis’s net worth is estimated at $1-3 million, accumulated through her two-decade broadcasting career, community speaking engagements, and endorsements. Her annual salary as a WXYZ co-anchor is approximately $87,500, typical for veteran local TV journalists in mid-sized markets.

Is Glenda Lewis Married?

Yes, Glenda Lewis has been married to Kahn Hall since July 2, 2015.

Is Glenda Lewis Still Married To Kahn Hall?

Yes, Glenda Lewis remains married to Kahn Hall as of October 2025, with no reports of separation or divorce; they continue to share family life privately in the Detroit area.

How Old Is Glenda Lewis?

Glenda Lewis is 50 years old (born December 26, 1974).

Who is Glenda Lewis?

Glenda Lewis is a five-time Emmy Award-winning co-anchor and reporter at WXYZ-TV/Channel 7 in Detroit, specializing in human-interest stories and community advocacy.

The daughter of retired anchor Diana Lewis, she is a Michigan State University alumna and a key figure in the “Lewis dynasty” of Detroit broadcasting.

Has Glenda Lewis written any books?

No, Glenda Lewis has not authored any books; searches yield results for other individuals with the same name, but none tied to her journalism career.

Where is Glenda Lewis now?

As of 2025, Glenda Lewis resides in the Detroit area (Farmington Hills) and continues as co-anchor of 7 Action News at 5 p.m. on WXYZ-TV/Channel 7 and 7 Action News at 10 p.m. on TV20 Detroit.

She remains active on social media, in community events (e.g., honored as a “She Shines” awardee by Girls on Ice Detroit in September 2025), and with family.

Glenda Lewis – Summary Table

Sources:

• WXYZ-TV Official Bio: https://www.wxyz.com/glenda-lewis

• Hour Detroit Magazine (Diana Lewis Profile): https://www.hourdetroit.com/community/eighty-years-strong-diana-lewis-talks-life-after-retirement/

• Detroit Historical Society (Diana Lewis Entry): https://www.detroithistorical.org/learn/online-research/encyclopedia-of-detroit/lewis-diana

• The Knot (Glenda & Kahn Wedding): https://www.theknot.com/real-weddings/glenda-kahn-an-outdoor-wedding-in-rochester-mi-album

• Muck Rack (Glenda Lewis Profile): https://muckrack.com/glewiswxyz

• Sungu News (Glenda Lewis Bio): https://www.sungunews.com/glenda-lewis-broadcast-journalist-anchor/