34 Facts About Robin Roberts

Early Life and Education

Robin Roberts is a well-known television broadcaster, but her journey to fame began long before she graced the screens of millions.

1. 01Born on November 23, 1960, in Tuskegee, Alabama, Robin Roberts grew up in Pass Christian, Mississippi.
2. 02Her father, Colonel Lawrence E. Roberts, was a pilot with the Tuskegee Airmen, an all-Black military pilot group during World War II.
3. 03Robin attended Southeastern Louisiana University on a basketball scholarship, where she majored in communication.
4. 04She graduated cum laude in 1983, setting the stage for her future career in journalism.

Career Beginnings

Before becoming a household name, Roberts worked her way up through various local TV stations.

5. 05Robin started her career as a sports anchor and reporter for WDAM-TV in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.
6. 06She then moved to WLOX-TV in Biloxi, Mississippi, where she continued to hone her skills.
7. 07Her next stop was WSMV-TV in Nashville, Tennessee, where she worked as a sports anchor and reporter.
8. 08Robin also worked at WAGA-TV in Atlanta, Georgia, before joining ESPN in 1990.

ESPN and Good Morning America

Roberts' career took off when she joined ESPN, and later, Good Morning America.

9. 09At ESPN, she became one of the network's most popular anchors, co-hosting "SportsCenter" for 15 years.
10. 10Robin joined ABC's "Good Morning America" in 1995 as a feature reporter.
11. 11By 2005, she was promoted to co-anchor of "Good Morning America," alongside Diane Sawyer.
12. 12Under her co-anchor tenure, "Good Morning America" became the most-watched morning show in the United States.

Personal Struggles and Triumphs

Robin Roberts has faced significant personal challenges, which she has openly shared with her audience.

13. 13In 2007, she was diagnosed with an early form of breast cancer and underwent surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation treatment.
14. 14In 2012, Robin announced she had been diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), a rare blood disorder.
15. 15She took a leave of absence from "Good Morning America" to undergo a bone marrow transplant, with her sister Sally-Ann Roberts serving as her donor.
16. 16Robin returned to "Good Morning America" in February 2013, receiving a warm welcome from her colleagues and viewers.

Awards and Recognitions

Roberts' contributions to journalism and her inspirational story have earned her numerous accolades.

17. 17In 2012, she was awarded the Peabody Award for her coverage of her own medical battles.
18. 18Robin received the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the 2013 ESPYs for her resilience and courage.
19. 19She was inducted into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame in 2014.
20. 20In 2018, she received the Radio Television Digital News Foundation's Lifetime Achievement Award.

Advocacy and Philanthropy

Robin Roberts uses her platform to advocate for various causes and give back to the community.

21. 21She is a strong advocate for cancer research and has worked with organizations like the American Cancer Society.
22. 22Robin supports Be The Match, a nonprofit organization that helps patients find bone marrow donors.
23. 23She has also been involved with the Women's Sports Foundation, promoting opportunities for girls and women in sports.
24. 24Robin launched her own production company, Rock'n Robin Productions, to create inspiring and impactful stories.

Personal Life

Despite her public persona, Roberts maintains a relatively private personal life.

25. 25Robin came out publicly as gay in 2013, acknowledging her long-term relationship with Amber Laign.
26. 26She and Amber have been together since 2005, and Robin often shares glimpses of their life together on social media.
27. 27Robin is an avid pet lover and has a rescue dog named Lukas.
28. 28She enjoys playing tennis and golf in her free time.

Fun Facts

Here are some lesser-known tidbits about Robin Roberts that might surprise you.

29. 29Robin was a standout basketball player in college, scoring over 1,000 points during her career at Southeastern Louisiana University.
30. 30She has a passion for music and often shares her favorite songs and playlists with her fans.
31. 31Robin is a big fan of the New Orleans Saints and frequently attends their games.
32. 32She has written several books, including "From the Heart: Seven Rules to Live By" and "Everybody's Got Something."
33. 33Robin has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which she received in 2016.
34. 34She is known for her positive attitude and often shares motivational quotes and messages with her followers.

Robin Roberts: A Remarkable Journey

Robin Roberts' life is a testament to resilience, talent, and inspiration. From her early days in sports journalism to becoming a beloved anchor on "Good Morning America," she's shown incredible strength and grace. Her battle with cancer and subsequent advocacy for health awareness have touched countless lives. Robin's ability to connect with people, share their stories, and uplift others is truly remarkable. Her journey reminds us that with determination and a positive spirit, we can overcome any obstacle. Robin Roberts continues to inspire millions, proving that authenticity and courage can lead to extraordinary achievements. Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have on the world. As we reflect on her journey, let's carry forward the lessons of perseverance, kindness, and the importance of staying true to oneself. Robin Roberts is not just a broadcaster; she's a beacon of hope and inspiration.