Journalism Career Beginnings

Velez-Mitchell developed an interest in journalism at a young age. Her professional broadcasting career began in 1990 when she joined KCAL-TV in Los Angeles as a co-anchor. She worked alongside veteran news anchor Jerry Dunphy and also appeared on KCBS-TV as an anchor. Additionally, she hosted programs on KABC (AM) radio in Los Angeles. Her tenure at KCAL-TV lasted over a decade, during which she earned recognition for her reporting and anchoring skills.

Following her time at KCAL-TV, Velez-Mitchell relocated to New York City, where she worked as a reporter for WCBS-TV for approximately eight years. She also held reporting roles in several other cities across the United States, including Philadelphia, Minneapolis, Fort Myers, and locations in Florida.

HLN and National Recognition

Jane Velez-Mitchell gained national prominence through her role as the host of Issues with Jane Velez-Mitchell, a current affairs program that aired on HLN for six years. Her coverage of high-profile court cases, particularly her in-courtroom reporting during the Michael Jackson child sexual abuse trial, helped establish her reputation as a dedicated legal journalist. She was also a frequent contributor to the show Nancy Grace during this period.

In addition to her televised work, Velez-Mitchell founded the digital news platform JaneUnchained, a social justice-focused media outlet that highlights issues such as animal rights, environmentalism, and ethical consumerism.