In the dynamic world of broadcast journalism, few names have stood the test of time quite like Larry Potash. For decades, Potash has been a familiar face on Chicago’s television screens as the anchor of WGN Morning News. Known for his wit, professionalism, and deep storytelling ability, Larry has built a loyal fan base that extends far beyond Illinois.
Many viewers often wonder, “How old is Larry Potash?” What is his net worth and salary? Who is the woman behind the man—the one often mentioned but rarely seen?
This article provides detailed answers to all these questions. You’ll learn about Larry Potash’s age, career milestones, family background, achievements, and sources of income. We’ll also examine his luxurious lifestyle, hobbies, and prospects, ensuring a fully SEO-optimised, easy-to-read exploration that provides a comprehensive picture of the seasoned journalist.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Larry Potash |
| Date of Birth | May 2, 1967 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 58 years |
| Birthplace | Boston, Massachusetts, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White (Caucasian) |
| Height | 5 feet 11 inches (1.80 meters) |
| Weight | Approximately 75 kg (165 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Light brown / partially grey |
| Body Type | Average build |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Wife | Lisa Potash |
| Children | Two daughters – Kaylin and Mallory |
| Education | Bachelor’s in Mass Communication, Emerson College |
| Profession | Television Journalist, News Anchor, Documentary Host |
| Workplace | WGN-TV (Chicago) |
| Years Active | 1990s–present |
| Estimated Net Worth (2025) | Around $1 million |
| Estimated Salary | Approximately $78,000 annually |
| Awards | Multiple Emmy Awards, Silver Dome Awards |
Who Is Larry Potash
Larry Potash is a celebrated American journalist and television news anchor, widely recognised for his long-standing career at WGN-TV in Chicago. Since joining the station in 1994, he has become one of the city’s most respected broadcast figures, earning multiple awards and building a reputation for insightful journalism and engaging presentation.
Larry’s career extends beyond just news anchoring. He’s the creator and host of the acclaimed program “Backstory with Larry Potash,” a series that delves into historical, cultural, and scientific narratives with a uniquely human touch. The show showcases his love for storytelling and his ability to make complex topics both accessible and entertaining.
Known for his charm and humour, Larry has developed an on-screen personality that connects effortlessly with audiences. Off the air, he is a dedicated husband and father, living a quiet yet fulfilling life with his family in the Chicago area.
Early Life and Background
- Born: May 2, 1967, in Boston, Massachusetts
- Upbringing: Larry spent most of his childhood in the Boston area, surrounded by a culture that valued education, communication, and public service.
- Education: His early interest in storytelling led him to pursue a degree in Mass Communications and Broadcast Journalism at Emerson College, a top institution known for producing talented media professionals.
- Early Passion: During his college years, Larry participated in student radio and television programs, honing his skills in voice delivery, writing, and news presentation.
- Early Career: Before joining WGN-TV, he gained hands-on experience at smaller regional television stations, where he learned the fundamentals of anchoring and live reporting.
These formative years provided Larry with a strong journalistic foundation and an appreciation for the power of honest, relatable storytelling. His New England upbringing, combined with academic excellence, has fostered a curiosity that continues to define his work.
Personal Life and Relationships
- Marriage: Larry Potash is married to Lisa Potash, and their marriage has stood strong for over two decades.
- Family: Together, they have two daughters, Kaylin and Mallory, who are often mentioned affectionately but remain largely out of the public eye.
- Residence: The family resides in the Chicago metropolitan area, close to Larry’s workplace.
- Privacy: Despite being a public Figure, Larry maintains a low-key personal life. He rarely shares family photos or details, preferring to maintain a clear boundary between work and home life.
- Values: Those who know him describe Larry as a grounded individual with a great sense of humour, humility, and a dedication to his family.
His private nature enhances his professional credibility—he lets his work speak for itself while ensuring his loved ones remain shielded from media attention.
Career and Achievements
Larry Potash’s career in journalism spans over 30 years, defined by dedication, versatility, and storytelling excellence.
Key Milestones
- Early Beginnings: Before his big break, Larry worked at KOTV-TV in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he served as a weekend anchor and political reporter.
- WGN-TV Era: In 1994, he joined WGN-TV in Chicago. A year later, he became a permanent anchor on the WGN Morning News, a position he continues to hold.
- Innovative Programming: Larry launched “Backstory with Larry Potash” in 2018, a series exploring Chicago’s untold stories, history, science, and religion.
- International Reporting: He created and hosted “Larry’s World,” an award-winning feature series that took him to Asia, where he reported on social and cultural transformations.
- Awards: Larry has received multiple Emmy Awards and Silver Dome Awards for excellence in anchoring and documentary reporting.
- Longevity: His show celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2019, marking a remarkable milestone in Chicago’s broadcast history.
Achievements Snapshot
- Over three decades in broadcast journalism
- Creator and host of two successful series (Backstory and Larry’s World)
- Recognised by peers and industry organisations for excellence and integrity
Larry’s dedication to storytelling and ability to engage viewers make him one of the most respected journalists in the Midwest.
Net Worth Overview
| Category | Details |
| Estimated Net Worth (2025) | $1 million |
| Primary Source | Television anchoring and journalism |
| Annual Salary | Approximately $78,000 |
| Secondary Income | Documentary hosting and special features |
| Assets | Residential property in the Chicago area, savings, and investments |
| Awards Value / Recognition | Multiple Emmy and Silver Dome honours |
| Lifestyle | Comfortable and stable, reflecting professional success |
Larry Potash’s net worth reflects a lifetime of consistent work and financial prudence. His long-term association with WGN-TV ensures a steady income, while his special programs contribute additional revenue. Although not extravagant, his earnings have allowed him to maintain a secure and fulfilling life.
Major Sources of Income
Larry’s income is diversified across several professional streams:
- WGN-TV Anchor Salary
- His primary source of income comes from his role as a long-time morning news anchor at WGN-TV.
- Documentary Production
- Hosting and producing Backstory with Larry Potash adds another steady source of earnings.
- Feature Segments
- His special features, such as those showcased in Larry’s World, have earned both financial rewards and professional recognition.
- Media Writing & Guest Contributions
- Larry occasionally contributes to media columns or panels, sharing insights on journalism and storytelling.
- Speaking Engagements (Occasional)
- As a respected Figure in Chicago media, he is sometimes invited to speak at journalism schools, events, and panels.
Each of these revenue channels demonstrates that Larry’s career is as diversified as it is stable.
Luxurious Lifestyle
While Larry Potash isn’t known for a flashy lifestyle, his success affords him a comfortable and well-balanced way of living.
- Home Life: He resides in a peaceful Chicago suburb, in a home that reflects understated elegance.
- Travel: His work has taken him to fascinating destinations across Asia and the U.S., often blending professional duty with personal curiosity.
- Professional Comforts: With decades in the media industry, Larry enjoys access to premier events, broadcasting perks, and exclusive networking circles.
- Family Time: Despite his busy schedule, Larry makes sure to spend quality time with his wife and daughters.
- Cultural Interests: His love for art, history, and culture is often reflected in his show topics and personal travel choices.
Overall, his lifestyle emphasises comfort, family, and intellectual engagement over showy wealth.
Hobbies and Fun Facts
Larry Potash is a man of curiosity and creativity, traits that extend beyond his career in the newsroom.
Hobbies
- History and Research – He loves diving into historical and cultural studies, often inspiring segments for Backstory.
- Travel – He enjoys exploring new cultures and locations.
- Storytelling – Even off-camera, Larry loves sharing stories that uncover meaning in ordinary life.
- Reading and Writing – As a journalist, he maintains a habit of reading widely across various genres, including history, science, and human-interest topics.
- Photography – Larry occasionally enjoys capturing cultural snapshots during his travels.
- Community Engagement – He supports local cultural and historical initiatives in Chicago.
Fun Facts
- Larry’s Backstory episodes frequently explore themes such as the history of Chicago, unexplained phenomena, and the intersection of science and faith.
- He has been anchoring the same show for over three decades, a rarity in American broadcast journalism.
- Known for his witty humour, he frequently injects playful moments into his live broadcasts.
- Colleagues describe him as calm, composed, and unshakably professional—even during live mishaps.
- Larry’s ability to mix seriousness with warmth makes him a viewer favourite.
Future Prospects
Larry Potash’s career continues to evolve even after decades in the industry. Some potential future paths include:
- Expanding Backstory – Producing more seasons or spin-offs for streaming and digital platforms.
- Podcasting / Digital Media – Launching a storytelling podcast based on historical or cultural themes.
- Writing a Book – His storytelling ability and career longevity make him an ideal candidate for a memoir.
- Mentorship and Teaching – He could share his wisdom with aspiring journalists through workshops or university programs.
- Community Involvement – Using his platform to support local journalism initiatives and history preservation.
- Lifetime Achievement Awards – Given his tenure, such recognition is likely to be forthcoming in the years to come.
Larry’s calm demeanour and commitment to factual storytelling ensure that his influence will persist long after his on-air career concludes.
Impact on Social Media
Although Larry Potash is not a traditional social media influencer, he effectively utilises digital platforms to connect with his viewers.
- Twitter and Facebook: He posts updates on upcoming shows, interesting facts, and occasional personal reflections.
- Instagram: His posts often feature behind-the-scenes glimpses of Backstory episodes or life in the newsroom.
- Engagement Style: Polite, professional, and informative rather than personal or controversial.
- Digital Identity: Maintains the same authenticity online that defines his on-screen presence.
- Audience: His social following includes loyal WGN viewers, Chicago residents, and fans of his documentary work.
Through his selective yet strategic online presence, Larry ensures his professional brand remains trustworthy and enduring.
Social Media Profile
| Platform | Link |
| IMDb | Click here |
| Click here |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How old is Larry Potash?
He was born on May 2, 1967, making him 58 years old as of 2025.
2. What year was Larry Potash born?
Larry Potash was born in 1967.
3. What is Larry Potash’s salary?
His estimated annual salary is around $78,000, based on industry averages.
4. What is Larry Potash’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated to be around $1 million, reflecting his long tenure at WGN-TV and his contributions to the media.
5. Who is Larry Potash’s wife?
He is married to Lisa Potash, and together they have two daughters, Kaylin and Mallory.
6. Where does Larry Potash live?
He resides in the Chicago area, near his workplace at WGN-TV.
7. What is Backstory with Larry Potash?
It’s a documentary-style program exploring fascinating, often overlooked stories in history, science, and culture.
8. How long has Larry Potash worked at WGN-TV?
He joined WGN-TV in 1994, marking over 30 years of continuous service.
9. What awards has Larry Potash won?
He has received multiple Emmy Awards and Silver Dome Awards for his excellence in broadcasting and storytelling.
Conclusion
Larry Potash is a shining example of journalistic integrity, longevity, and passion. Born in 1967, he has dedicated more than three decades to informing, entertaining, and inspiring audiences across Chicago and beyond. His blend of intelligence, humour, and humility has earned him not only awards but also the enduring trust of viewers.
At 58 years old, Larry continues to innovate—whether through his acclaimed series Backstory with Larry Potash or his consistent presence on WGN Morning News. His net worth, career success, and family life all reflect the steady rewards of professionalism and a purpose-driven approach.
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