Linda Yu Biography
Linda Yu is an American of Chinese descent, former news anchor, and author. She became well-known as a co-anchor for WLS-TV‘s Eyewitness newscast in Chicago, Illinois, a position she held from April 1984 to November 2016.
Yu made history as the first American broadcast journalist in Chicago when she started at WMAQ-TV in 1979. She received five local Emmy Awards during her career, including one for her report on the aftermath of 9/11 in 2001.
In 1984, Yu was given a National Gold Medal from the National Conference of Community and Justice for her documentary “The Scars of Belfast.” Originally from Xian, China, Yu moved to Hong Kong with her family at three years old before moving to the United States in 1951. She graduated from the University of Southern California with a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism in 1968. Yu’s impactful career has left a lasting mark on Chicago’s media scene.
Age
Linda Yu, born on December 1, 1946, is 77 years old as of 2024. And as of 2024, December she will be 79.
Height
She stands a height of 5 feet and 7 inches tall.
Education
Linda Yu went to the University of Southern California and got a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism in 1968. This education helped her have a successful career as a news anchor and writer, making a big impact on Chicago’s media.
Hobbies
Besides her successful career in journalism, Linda Yu has many hobbies that have shaped her life. She loves reading, enjoying books to learn new things and escape into different stories.
She also loves traveling, exploring new places, trying different foods, and seeing beautiful sights. Linda’s traveled to many places, each one leaving a lasting impression on her.
Photography is another passion of hers. With her camera, Linda captures special moments like the sunlight hitting old buildings or the joy of kids in a busy market. Her photos tell stories that touch people’s hearts.
Lastly, Linda enjoys cooking. She likes to experiment with flavors, making delicious meals at home. Whether she’s trying a complicated recipe or tasting street food from faraway places, her love for food knows no bounds.
Family
Linda Yu was born in Xian, China, but her family moved to Hong Kong when she was three years old. Then, in 1951, they moved to the United States. This move had a big impact on Linda’s life and paved the way for her incredible journey.
Siblings
She grew up alongside her siblings, which included her sister Lela Yu. Their shared experiences influenced Linda’s life and played a part in her extraordinary journey.
Husband and Divorce
Linda married Dr. Richard Baer, a psychiatrist, on June 12, 1982, in Chicago. Their marriage had a hopeful beginning, but things took a turn during their honeymoon in southern France when Dr. Baer had a mild concussion from a car accident. Despite this rough start, they stayed together for many years until they divorced in 1996. Linda and Richard had two children together—Rick Baer and Francesca Baer. Linda Yu’s extraordinary career was influenced by the complexities of love, family, and life, leaving a lasting impact on her story.
Career
Linda Yu, a respected news anchor and writer, had a significant career in Chicago’s media scene. She made history as the first American journalist in Chicago when she joined WMAQ-TV in 1979. However, it was her role as a co-anchor on the Eyewitness newscast for WLS-TV from 1984 to 2016 that made her widely known. Linda won five local Emmy Awards during her career, including one for her impactful report on 9/11 in 2001. She also received a National Gold Medal for her documentary “The Scars of Belfast.” Linda Yu’s dedication, strength, and excellent journalism continue to inspire new generations of media professionals.
Salary and Net worth
As of 2024, her yearly income is estimated to fall between $50,000 and $115,000, while her net worth is estimated to range from $1 million to $5 million.