Arthel Neville is a name synonymous with journalistic excellence and television charisma. With a career spanning decades, she has carved a niche for herself in the media industry, becoming one of the most respected anchors on Fox News. Her journey—from a young woman with aspirations in acting and modeling to a trailblazing journalist—is inspiring.
Born on October 20, 1962, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Arthel grew up in a household deeply rooted in music and culture. Her father, Art Neville, was a Grammy-winning musician, and her family’s entertainment industry legacy significantly shaped her early interests. However, instead of following in her father’s footsteps, Arthel chose a different path—one that led her to become a pioneering African American female journalist.
Early Life and Background
Arthel was born into a musical dynasty on October 20, 1962, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Her father, Art Neville, was a Grammy-winning musician, best known for founding The Neville Brothers, a legendary group that shaped the sound of New Orleans. Her mother, Doris Neville, provided a strong foundation for her upbringing, ensuring that Arthel had the support she needed to pursue her dreams. Her current age is 62 years as of May 2025.
Growing up in a culturally rich environment, Arthel was surrounded by music, creativity, and ambition. Her uncle, Aaron Neville, was also a Grammy-winning artist, and her cousin, Ivan Neville, followed in the family’s footsteps as a singer. Despite being immersed in the world of music, Arthel felt drawn to storytelling and journalism, a passion that would later define her career.
Family and Musical Legacy
Arthel comes from a family of musicians, with her father, Art Neville, being a Grammy-winning artist. Her uncle, Aaron Neville, and cousin, Ivan Neville, have also made significant contributions to the music industry.
Despite choosing journalism over music, Arthel has always embraced her family’s legacy. She often speaks about the influence of her father, crediting him for instilling in her a strong work ethic and passion for storytelling.
Arthel Neville Wiki | BIO
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Arthel Helena Neville |
| Nick Name | Arthel |
| Profession | American Journalist and News Anchor |
| Age | 62 years old |
| Date of Birth | October 20, 1962 |
| Nationality | American |
| Zodiac Sign | Libra |
| Birthplace | New Orleans, Louisiana, United States |
| Current Address | Manhattan, New York, United States |
| Education | University of Texas at Austin (Journalism Degree) |
| Career Start | General Assignment Reporter at KVUE-TV |
| Major Networks | Fox News, CNN, Tegna Inc. |
| Notable Shows | “Extreme Close-Up,” “America’s News Headquarters,” “America’s Newsroom,” “Happening Now” |
| Awards | DeWitt Carter Reddick Award (2017) |
| Father | Art Neville (Grammy-winning musician) |
| Mother | Doris Neville |
| Uncle | Aaron Neville (Grammy-winning singer) |
| Cousin | Ivan Neville (Singer) |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Husband | Taku Hirano (Percussionist and Recording Artist) |
| Ex-Husband | Derrick Lassic (Former NFL Player) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $2 million (Approx.) |
| Height | 5 Feet 5 Inches (167 cm) |
| Weight | 55 Kgs (121 Lbs) |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| @arthelneville/ | |
| Wikipedia | @Arthel_Neville |
Education and Early Aspirations
Arthel attended St. Mary’s Dominican High School, where she excelled academically and developed an interest in media and communication. After graduating, she moved to New York City, hoping to make a name for herself in acting and modeling. She landed commercial gigs and even had a small role in the soap opera All My Children. However, she soon realized that her true calling lay elsewhere.
Determined to pursue a more impactful career, Arthel enrolled at Xavier University, initially studying pharmacy. But her passion for journalism led her to Southern Methodist University, and later, she transferred to the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned her journalism degree.
Journalism Career Growth
Neville’s journalism career began while she was still a student at the University of Texas at Austin. She landed her first job as a general assignment reporter at KVUE-TV, an ABC affiliate in Austin. Balancing her studies with a full-time reporting job was no easy feat, but Arthel’s dedication and passion for journalism helped her excel.
After graduating, she moved back to New Orleans, where she worked as a journalist and anchor for WWL-TV. Her ability to connect with audiences and deliver news with clarity and professionalism quickly made her a standout in the industry.
In 1988, Arthel briefly relocated to Houston, joining KHOU-TV as a reporter. However, her heart remained in New Orleans, and she soon returned to continue her work in the city. Her versatility and strong reporting skills made her a sought-after journalist, and she continued to build her reputation as a trusted news anchor.
Breakthrough with “Extreme Close-Up”
Arthel’s big break came in 1991 when she was chosen to host “Extreme Close-Up”, an entertainment news show. Over the course of 300+ episodes, she interviewed some of the biggest Hollywood stars, including Tom Cruise, Will Smith, and Sharon Stone. This role made her the first prominent Black female entertainment columnist in the country—a groundbreaking achievement.
Her success on “Extreme Close-Up” opened doors for her in the entertainment industry, allowing her to advocate for African American representation in media. She continued hosting similar programs, using her platform to highlight important social issues.
In 1994, Arthel was invited by Dick Clark to co-host the Miss USA pageant. This was a significant milestone in her career, as it showcased her ability to engage audiences on a national level. Her presence on the stage was graceful, confident, and charismatic, further solidifying her reputation as a top-tier television personality.
Major Career Milestones
In 1997, Arthel co-hosted the daytime program “Arthel and Fred” on NBC, alongside Fred Roggin. The show focused on news, entertainment, and human-interest stories, allowing Arthel to showcase her versatility as a journalist. In 1998, Arthel made a significant career move by joining Fox News Channel.
Arthel also had the opportunity to work alongside Megyn Kelly on “America Live”, further expanding her influence in the industry. Her ability to handle breaking news, conduct interviews, and provide insightful analysis made her a valuable asset to the network.
In 2017, Arthel received the Moody College of Communication’s DeWitt Carter Reddick Award, an honor previously given to journalism legends like Dan Rather, Walter Cronkite, and Ted Turner.
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Advocacy and Influence
Throughout her career, Arthel has been a strong advocate for African American representation in media. As the first prominent Black female entertainment columnist, she broke barriers and paved the way for future journalists of color. Her presence in mainstream media has been inspirational, proving that diversity in journalism is not just necessary but essential.
Arthel has used her platform to highlight social issues, ensuring that underrepresented voices are heard. Whether reporting on civil rights movements, racial injustices, or cultural milestones, she has remained committed to truthful and impactful journalism.
Marriage and Relationships
Neville’s personal life has been just as intriguing as her professional journey. She was previously married to former NFL running back Derrick Lassic from 1995 to 1998. Their marriage, though short-lived, was a significant chapter in her life.
In 2001, Arthel found lasting happiness with Taku Hirano, a renowned percussionist and recording artist. Their relationship has been strong and enduring, with both partners supporting each other’s careers.
Net Worth and Financial Success
Arthel has built an impressive career, and her financial success reflects her dedication. Her estimated net worth is around 2 million USD (approx). This wealth comes from her long-standing career in journalism, hosting roles, and contributions to major networks.
As a senior anchor, Arthel earns an annual salary between $47,000 and $120,000. Her role at Fox News Live has solidified her position as a respected journalist, ensuring her financial stability.
Public Image and Media Presence
Arthel has built a reputation as a credible, professional, and engaging journalist. Her ability to deliver news with clarity and warmth has made her a trusted figure in the media industry. Whether reporting on breaking news or conducting in-depth interviews, she maintains a balanced and insightful approach.
Her presence on Fox News Live has solidified her status as a respected anchor, and her contributions to journalism have earned her recognition from peers and audiences alike.
Physical Attributes
Arthel exudes a professional and elegant presence, making her a recognizable figure in the media industry. Standing at approximately 5 feet 5 inches (1.67 meters) tall, she carries herself with confidence and poise, which complements her role as a respected journalist. Her brown hair and expressive brown eyes add to her warm and engaging on-screen persona.
Over the years, she has maintained a graceful and polished appearance, reflecting her dedication to professionalism. Whether delivering news or engaging in interviews, Arthel’s composed demeanor and refined style make her a standout presence in television journalism. Her ability to balance sophistication with approachability has contributed to her lasting appeal among viewers.
Legacy in Journalism
Neville’s journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring journalists, especially women and people of color. Her ability to break barriers and establish herself as a leading journalist has paved the way for greater diversity in media. She has shown that credibility, professionalism, and passion are key to building a lasting career in journalism.
Arthel’s presence in mainstream media has helped challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity. Her work has contributed to greater representation in journalism, ensuring that diverse voices are heard.
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