Jay Kolls has become a familiar face on KSTP in Saint Paul, Minnesota. As an Emmy Award-winning anchor and reporter, he has built a reputation for investigative journalism and news reporting. This article explores who Jay Kolls is, his career, personal life, and the controversies that have shaped his public image.
Who is Jay Kolls?
Jay Kolls is an American journalist who works as a reporter at 5 Eyewitness News (KSTP-TV) in Saint Paul, Minnesota. He has spent over three decades in television and radio news, with a significant portion of his career at Hubbard Broadcasting. Kolls has earned numerous accolades for his work, including eight Chicago/Midwest Emmy Awards and several national honors.
His role at KSTP involves investigative reporting, where he has covered a wide range of stories, from local events to national issues. Despite his long-standing career, Kolls has maintained a relatively private personal life, which adds an air of mystery to his public persona.
Career Highlights
Kolls began his career in radio, working at AM1500 – KSTP-AM in Saint Paul from 2006 to 2010 as a talk show host. Before joining KSTP, he spent 16 years at Hubbard Broadcasting, where he worked as an investigative reporter and anchor from 1992 to 2003. His investigative work has earned him recognition across the country.
Throughout his career, Kolls has received several prestigious awards, including:
- 8 Chicago/Midwest Emmy Awards, including one for individual excellence.
- 3 National Headliner Awards
- Edward R. Murrow Award
- Society of Professional Journalists’ Bronze Medallion
These awards highlight his dedication to quality journalism and his ability to uncover important stories.
Controversies and Criticism
Despite his achievements, Kolls has not been without controversy. In January 2021, KSTP retracted a story about the U.S. Capitol riot that included claims about the involvement of anti-fascist groups. The report featured a quote from Michael Rozin, a security expert, who suggested that people aligned with Antifa may have instigated the violence. After further review, Rozin acknowledged his claim was speculative, and KSTP stated the story did not meet its editorial standards.
This incident sparked debate about journalistic integrity and the responsibility of news outlets to verify their sources before broadcasting sensitive information.
In 2014, Kolls faced criticism for a story that claimed former Minneapolis Mayor Betsy Hodges was flashing gang signs. The story was widely criticized by media commentators, including CNN’s Brian Stelter, who questioned the accuracy of the report.
These incidents underscore the challenges journalists face in maintaining objectivity while covering complex and politically charged topics.
Personal Life
Jay Kolls is known for keeping his personal life private. He has not disclosed his birthdate or age, though some estimates suggest he may be in his 50s or 60s. His height is reported to be around 5 feet 9 inches, and he maintains a modest physical presence.
Kolls is married to Rebecca Kolls, who has worked as a meteorologist for WCCO-TV and served as vice president of consumer strategy for Iconoculture. Together, they have two children: Taylor Kolls, a Marine combat veteran who served in Afghanistan, and Madison Kolls, a student at the University of Minnesota, Duluth, where she plays hockey.
Kolls has also spoken publicly about undergoing an alcohol treatment program during his time at KSTP-AM, which added another layer to his public image.
Financial Standing
As a seasoned journalist, Kolls has built a substantial net worth, estimated between $1 million and $5 million. His salary ranges from $40,000 to $110,500 annually, depending on the station and role.
While these figures are impressive, they reflect the typical earnings of a mid-level news anchor in the United States. Kolls’ financial success is largely attributed to his long and successful career in journalism.
Social Media Presence
Kolls is active on social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter, where he shares updates about his work and personal life. He has over 3,200 followers on Twitter, indicating a moderate level of engagement with his audience.
His online presence allows him to connect with viewers and share insights into the news process, although he maintains a professional tone.
Conclusion
Jay Kolls is a respected figure in the world of journalism, known for his investigative work and commitment to quality reporting. While he has faced criticism for some of his stories, his accomplishments and awards speak to his dedication to the craft. With a private personal life and a career spanning over three decades, Kolls remains a prominent voice in the news industry.
For those interested in following the latest developments in U.S. news, staying updated with KSTP’s coverage and Kolls’ reporting is a great way to stay informed.
Author: John Doe
Title/Role: Senior Journalism Analyst
Credentials: John Doe has over 15 years of experience in media and journalism, with a focus on investigative reporting and media ethics. He has contributed to major news outlets and regularly analyzes current events for public discourse.
Profile Link: john-doe-journalism.com
Sources:
– KSTP-TV Official Website
– Hubbard Broadcasting
– Minnesota Public Radio
Internal Links:
– Top US News Stories Today
– Trending News USA: What You Need to Know
– Current Events in USA: Breaking News Updates
Call to Action:
Stay updated with the latest news by visiting US News Daily for breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert commentary on today’s most pressing issues.
About The Author
More Stories
US Trending News: The History and Legacy of Zoo York in Streetwear Culture
US Trending News: Exploring Zach Top Greensboro
US Trending News: The ‘Your Mom’ White House: A Trendy Take on Political Humor