Phil Ponce Biography | Wikipedia
Phil Ponce is a distinguished American journalist and television presenter, best known for his role as the former host of “Chicago Tonight,” a nightly news and culture magazine on WTTW, Chicago’s public television station. Born on September 26, 1949, in McAllen, Texas, he was raised in East Chicago, Indiana.
Age | Birthday
As of 2024, Phil Ponce is 75 years old. He celebrates his birthday annually on September 26.
Phil Ponce Education
Phil graduated from Bishop Noll Institute in Hammond, Indiana. He then pursued higher education at Indiana University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in English in 1971. Subsequently, he obtained a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Michigan in 1974. Before transitioning into journalism, Phil practiced law for six years. He also served as a Benton Fellow in broadcast journalism at the University of Chicago.
Phil Ponce Family | Parents
Phil’s parents were both steelworkers, a testament to his humble beginnings. During his college years, he worked as a steelworker during summers, reflecting his strong work ethic. Specific details about his parents’ names or any siblings are not publicly available.
Marriage | Wife
Phil is married to Ann Ponce, a renowned Chicago portrait and landscape artist. The couple resides in Chicago’s northern suburbs and shares a deep commitment to the arts and journalism.
Phil Ponce Children | Sons
Phil and Ann have three children:
- Maria Ponce: A professional photographer based in Chicago.
- Dan Ponce: Founder of the a cappella group Straight No Chaser and currently a morning anchor at WGN Channel 9 in Chicago.
- Anthony Ponce: Former television reporter with NBC5 (WMAQ-TV) and currently an anchor/reporter at WFLD Channel 32 in Chicago.
Phil Ponce Career
Phil’s career trajectory is notable for its diversity and impact:
- Legal Practice: After earning his law degree, Phil practiced law for six years before transitioning into journalism.
- Broadcast Journalism: He began his broadcasting career as a weekend reporter for an ABC affiliate in Indianapolis. In 1982, he joined WBBM-TV in Chicago as a reporter. In 1992, he became a correspondent for “Chicago Tonight” on WTTW. From 1997 to 1999, he served as a supporting anchor on the national PBS program “The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer.” He returned to WTTW in 1999 as the host of “Chicago Tonight,” succeeding John Callaway. In this role, Phil moderated numerous political debates, including those for the presidency, U.S. Senate, governorship, and mayoral races in Chicago. In late 2017, he announced plans to reduce his workload, transitioning to special assignments by 2021. After nearly three decades at “Chicago Tonight,” Phil ended his regular appearances on the program in 2021, moving to special assignments.
- Academic Contributions: Phil serves as the distinguished journalist-in-residence at Loyola University Chicago, where he teaches journalism and interviewing techniques.
Phil Ponce’s Net Worth
While specific figures regarding Phil’s net worth are not publicly disclosed, his extensive career in journalism and academia suggests a comfortable financial standing.
Phil Ponce’s Twitter
Phil maintains an active presence on Twitter, where he shares insights on current events and personal reflections.
Phil Ponce Retired
In 2021, Phil concluded his regular appearances on “Chicago Tonight,” transitioning to special assignments and occasional guest hosting roles, including on “Chicago Tonight: Latino Voices.”
Phil Ponce WTTW
Phil’s tenure at WTTW’s “Chicago Tonight” spanned nearly three decades, during which he became a trusted voice in Chicago journalism, known for his insightful interviews and moderation of political debates.
Phil Ponce’s Body Measurement | Height
Phil stands at an average height of 5 feet 6 inches. Details regarding other body measurements are not publicly available.
For a deeper insight into Phil Ponce’s illustrious career, you might find the following interview enlightening:
Phil Ponce’s Twitter
Find Ponce on Twitter.
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