Lori Stokes is a highly respected and beloved television journalist, known for her decades-long career as a news anchor, particularly in New York and North Carolina. Recognized for her intelligence, professionalism, and captivating on-screen presence, Stokes has become one of the most distinguished broadcasters affiliated with WABC-TV, the flagship station of the ABC Television Network based in New York City.
At WABC-TV, Lori Stokes established herself as a veteran anchor and a trusted figure in journalism. With nearly 30 years of experience in broadcast news, she was considered a key asset to the station’s strategy for strengthening viewership ratings. Her poise and credibility as a newscaster earned her industry recognition, and fans even dubbed her nicknames such as “Rating Magnet” and “The Pillar of WABC-TV.”
Stokes began her journalism career at the age of 24 as a medical reporter for WICA in Illinois. She soon transitioned into weekend co-anchor before moving to WBTV in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she worked as a reporter and weekend anchor. Within just two years, she built a strong reputation in the southeastern United States. In 1998, she further broadened her experience by covering crime and local issues as a reporter for WBFF-TV in Baltimore.
Her growing portfolio led her to WJLA-TV in Washington, D.C., where she served as the lead female anchor from 1992 to 1996—a role that solidified her presence in major market broadcasting.
From 1996 to 1999, Lori Stokes became one of the original anchors at MSNBC during the network’s early development. She co-anchored programs such as MSNBC Today, MSNBC Sunrise, and Weekend Today. During her time at MSNBC, she covered several major national news events including the Columbine High School massacre and the death of John F. Kennedy Jr.—coverage that is considered some of the finest in her career. She later returned to local broadcast news, elevating programs such as Eyewitness News in New York with her dependable presence and commanding delivery.
Lori Stokes was previously married to Brian Thompson, a journalist with NBC. The couple share two daughters. Stokes was 27 when she married Thompson, and their wedding was a well-celebrated summer event attended by close family and friends. Though now divorced, Stokes continues to focus on her family and career.
There have been no public rumors or confirmed reports regarding her current relationship status or dating life. She maintains a low profile in her personal affairs.
While Lori Stokes’ exact salary and net worth have not been oficially disclosed, industry estimates put her earnings in the range of $10 million USD. This estimate reflects her long-standing tenure in broadcast journalism, as well as her pivotal roles in both national and local news markets.
Despite some perceptions that she is under-recognized on a national level, Stokes is widely acknowledged and celebrated in the cities where she has worked. Her dedication, authentic reporting style, and influence in local journalism make her a highly successful and admired figure in the field.
| Birth Date: | 16 Sep, 1962 |
| Age: | 57 yrs |
| Occupations: | Journalist |
| Citizenship: | United States of America |
| Birth Place: | Cleveland |
| Education: | Howard University |
| Gender: | Female |
| Description: | American television reporter |
| Twitter Id: | LoriStokes7 |
| Spouse: | Brian Thompson |
