Kelly O’Donnell Wikipedia | Biography
Kelly O’Donnell is a well-known American television journalist who currently is the senior White House and political correspondent for NBC News. In this role, she covers significant national political events and the workings of the U.S. Justice Department. You can catch her reporting on popular programs like NBC Nightly News, Today, Meet the Press, and NBC News NOW. With her extensive background in political reporting and a calm demeanor on air, O’Donnell has established herself as one of NBC’s most recognizable faces.
She graduated from Northwestern University in 1987, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Education with a focus on journalism and public policy. O’Donnell kicked off her broadcasting career in the 1990s at FOX 8 Cleveland (WJW-TV), where she took on roles as both a reporter and anchor. During her time there, she worked alongside former NBC correspondent Martin Savidge while the station was still affiliated with CBS.
In 1994, O’Donnell made the leap to NBC News as a correspondent based in New York City and later in Los Angeles. Over the years, she has reported on a wide range of major national and international stories, gaining recognition for her political insight and field reporting skills. She has also appeared as a panelist on The Chris Matthews Show and filled in as a weekend anchor on Today and NBC Nightly News. Additionally, she has contributed segments to Dateline NBC.
Kelly O’Donnell Education
Kelly graduated from the University of Northwestern in 1987 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education, focusing on a combined major in Public Policy and Journalism. She was quite the standout student, earning an Alumnae Grant for her impressive performance.
Kelly O’Donnell Age
As of 2026, she’s 61 years old. Born on May 17, 1965, in Cleveland, Ohio, she celebrates her birthday every year on that same date.
Kelly O’Donnell Nationality
O’Donnell proudly holds American nationality and citizenship. Growing up in Cleveland, Ohio, she identifies with her white heritage.
Kelly O’Donnell Height | Measurements
Standing tall at about 5 feet 9 inches (around 1.83 m), Kelly is definitely above average in height. However, she hasn’t shared any specifics about her other body measurements publicly.
Parents
Kelly was raised in Cleveland, Ohio, by her loving parents, Josh and Kristien O’Donnell. Her father was a businessman, while her mother pursued a career as a professional dancer. She also has an older sister named Jenny, who works as a journalist and correspondent.
Kelly O’Donnell Husband
Kelly is happily married to her wonderful husband, David Ake. David serves as the Deputy Head of Bureau for the Associated Press in Washington and has a knack for photography. He previously held the position of Assistant Bureau Chief and was the Deputy Director of Photography at the Associated Press from 2003 to 2006. Despite their public roles, the couple prefers to keep details about their marriage and any children they may have private.
Kelly O’Donnell NBC News
Kelly O’Donnell is currently the senior White House and political correspondent for NBC News. In this role, she covers significant national political events and the workings of the U.S. Justice Department. You can catch her reporting on popular programs like NBC Nightly News, Today, Meet the Press, and NBC News NOW. With her extensive background in political reporting and a calm demeanor on air, O’Donnell has established herself as one of NBC’s most recognizable faces.
She graduated from Northwestern University in 1987, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Education with a focus on journalism and public policy. O’Donnell kicked off her broadcasting career in the 1990s at FOX 8 Cleveland (WJW-TV), where she took on roles as both a reporter and anchor. During her time there, she worked alongside former NBC correspondent Martin Savidge while the station was still affiliated with CBS.
In 1994, O’Donnell made the leap to NBC News as a correspondent based in New York City and later in Los Angeles. Over the years, she has reported on a wide range of major national and international stories, gaining recognition for her political insight and field reporting skills. She has also appeared as a panelist on The Chris Matthews Show and filled in as a weekend anchor on Today and NBC Nightly News. Additionally, she has contributed segments to Dateline NBC.
During President George W. Bush’s second term, O’Donnell served as NBC News’ White House correspondent. After the 2008 presidential campaign, she shifted her focus to Capitol Hill, extensively covering Congress and national politics. Throughout her impressive career, she has reported on multiple presidential administrations, election campaigns, and significant political events in Washington.
In 2016, O’Donnell grabbed the spotlight as the first television journalist to break the news live that Hillary Clinton had called Donald Trump to concede the presidential election. Her coverage during election nights and political transitions has earned her a reputation for being both accurate and professional.
Kelly O’Donnell Iraq War
But O’Donnell’s talents go beyond just politics. She has reported on some of the most pivotal moments in modern American history. During the Iraq War, she was right there with the U.S. Army’s 3rd Infantry Division in Baghdad and Doha. She also covered major national tragedies and historic events, such as the Oklahoma City bombing, the O. J. Simpson murder trial, the September 11 attacks, and the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster.
Additionally, O’Donnell has extensively reported on the travels and passing of Pope John Paul II and has been a familiar face at both the Summer and Winter Olympic Games throughout her journalism career.
Kelly O’Donnell Salary
As a White House correspondent for NBC News, Kelly brings in a solid income from her work across various programs and platforms, including “NBC Sunday Morning” and “MSNBC.” Her estimated annual salary is around $160,000.
Kelly O’Donnell’s Net Worth
Over the years, Kelly has built up a respectable fortune. Her net worth is estimated to be about $3 million.