Dana Jacobson is a name synonymous with excellence in sports journalism. With a career spanning decades, she has carved a niche for herself as a respected journalist, anchor, and correspondent. From her early days in local television to her current role at CBS News, Jacobson’s journey is one of perseverance, talent, and an unwavering commitment to delivering insightful sports coverage.
Born on November 5, 1971, Jacobson has spent over two decades in the media industry, earning accolades for her work. She is best known for her tenure at ESPN, where she co-hosted Cold Pizza, later rebranded as First Take. Her ability to engage audiences with her sharp analysis and charismatic presence has made her a household name in sports broadcasting.
Beyond her professional achievements, Jacobson’s personal life has also garnered attention. She is married to Sean Grande, a well-known sportscaster and play-by-play announcer for the Boston Celtics. Their relationship, which began in 2015, culminated in a beautiful wedding in September 2019.
Early Life and Background
Dana was born and raised on November 5, 1971, in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, a suburban city known for its affluent neighborhoods and strong educational institutions. Growing up in a Jewish family, she was instilled with values of hard work, perseverance, and integrity—qualities that would later define her career. Her current age is 53 years as of April 2025.
Jacobson’s early years were shaped by her upbringing in Detroit’s suburbs. While details about her parents remain private, it is evident that her family played a crucial role in nurturing her ambitions. She developed a keen interest in journalism from a young age, often watching news broadcasts and admiring the work of seasoned reporters.
Her Jewish heritage also influenced her worldview, instilling a deep appreciation for storytelling and cultural representation. This background would later become an integral part of her identity as a journalist.
Education and Academic Pursuits
Jacobson attended Valley High School before transferring to Andover High School, where she completed her secondary education in 1989. Her passion for journalism led her to enroll at the University of Michigan, a prestigious institution known for its strong media and communications programs.
At Michigan, she pursued a Bachelor of Arts in English and Communications, honing her skills in writing, reporting, and public speaking. Her time at university was instrumental in shaping her career trajectory, as she actively participated in media-related activities and internships.
Jacobson’s academic journey laid the foundation for her future success, equipping her with the knowledge and expertise needed to thrive in the competitive world of journalism.
Dana Jacobson Wiki | BIO
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dana Jacobson |
| Nick Name | Dana |
| Profession | Journalist, News Anchor |
| Age | 53 years old (as of April 2025) |
| Date of Birth | November 5, 1971 |
| Nationality | American |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
| Birthplace | Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, United States |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Spouse | Sean Grande |
| Education | University of Michigan, Bachelor of Arts in English and Communications |
| High School | Valley High School, Andover High School |
| Career Start | WPBN/WTOM-TV in Traverse City, Michigan |
| Notable Roles | ESPN (Cold Pizza, First Take, SportsCenter), CBS Sports Network, CBS News (CBS Saturday Morning) |
| Awards | Edward R. Murrow Award (2000), National Headliner Award (1998), Michigan Jewish Sports Foundation Hall of Fame (2018) |
| Controversy | 2008 ESPN Suspension |
| Net Worth | Approximately $5 million |
| Annual Salary | Approximately $75,000 |
| Height | 5 Feet 11 Inches (180 cm) |
| Weight | 62 kg (136 lbs) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| @danajacobsontv/ | |
| Wikipedia | @Dana_Jacobson |
Early Career in Television
Jacobson’s journey into television journalism began in Traverse City, Michigan, where she landed her first job at WPBN/WTOM-TV. This role was a significant stepping stone, allowing her to gain hands-on experience in various aspects of broadcasting.
At WPBN/WTOM-TV, Jacobson wore multiple hats—she worked as a fill-in news anchor, weekend sports anchor, producer, and editor. This versatility helped her develop a well-rounded skill set, preparing her for the competitive world of sports journalism. Her ability to adapt to different roles showcased her dedication and passion for storytelling.
During her two-year tenure at the station, Jacobson covered a range of local news stories, gaining valuable experience in live reporting and newsroom operations. Her time in Traverse City laid the foundation for her future success, as she honed her ability to deliver compelling narratives and engage audiences.
Rise in Sports Journalism
Jacobson’s career continued to ascend as she took on more prominent roles in sports broadcasting. Her ability to deliver engaging sports coverage led her to KXTV-TV, ABC’s Sacramento affiliate station, where she worked as a weekend sports anchor from 1998 to 2002.
At KXTV-TV, Jacobson covered major professional sports, including the NFL and NBA. Her dynamic reporting style and deep understanding of the sports industry made her a favorite among viewers. She provided in-depth analysis, interviewed key players, and delivered compelling sports stories that resonated with audiences.
Her tenure at KXTV-TV was marked by her ability to break down complex sports narratives into engaging and accessible content. She became a familiar face for sports enthusiasts in the region, further solidifying her place in the industry.
Notable Hosting Roles
Jacobson’s growing expertise in sports journalism led her to take on hosting responsibilities for KXTV’s News10 Red Zone and serve as a sports reporter for the Monday Night Football show from 1996 to 1998. These roles allowed her to showcase her versatility as both a reporter and a host.
Additionally, she hosted The NBA Insiders, a popular two-hour radio show on KHTK-AM from 2000 to 2002. This experience in radio broadcasting further expanded her skill set, demonstrating her ability to engage audiences across different media platforms.
Jacobson’s rise in sports journalism was fueled by her dedication, expertise, and ability to connect with viewers. Her early career successes paved the way for her transition to national sports broadcasting, setting the stage for her tenure at ESPN.
ESPN Career (2002-2012)
Jacobson’s career took a significant leap forward when she joined ESPN in 2002. This move marked the beginning of a decade-long tenure at one of the most prestigious sports networks in the world. Her time at ESPN was defined by her versatility, professionalism, and ability to engage audiences with insightful sports coverage.
In March 2005, Jacobson was named co-host of Cold Pizza, a morning sports talk show that blended news, analysis, and entertainment. The show later evolved into First Take, a widely popular program that continues to be a staple in sports media today.
Her ability to balance serious sports discussions with lighthearted banter made her a fan favorite. She brought energy and expertise to the show, helping First Take establish itself as a go-to program for sports enthusiasts.
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Anchoring SportsCenter
After leaving First Take in December 2011, Jacobson returned to anchoring SportsCenter, ESPN’s flagship sports news program. Her role involved delivering breaking sports news, conducting interviews, and providing in-depth analysis on major sporting events. She remained with SportsCenter until her departure from ESPN in April 2012.
Jacobson’s final day at ESPN was April 30, 2012, when she anchored the 6–8 p.m. ET edition of SportsCenter. Her departure marked the end of an era, but it also paved the way for new opportunities in her career.
Move to CBS Sports and CBS News
Following her departure from ESPN, Jacobson transitioned to CBS Sports Network in 2013. This move allowed her to continue her passion for sports journalism while expanding her role beyond traditional sports coverage.
Jacobson’s initial role at CBS Sports Network involved covering NFL, NBA, and college sports. She became a regular contributor on The NFL Today, providing expert analysis and commentary on football-related topics. Her ability to break down complex sports narratives made her a valuable asset to the network.
Additionally, she hosted CBS’s We Need To Talk, a groundbreaking sports talk show featuring an all-female panel. The show focused on discussions about sports, culture, and the impact of women in the industry, further highlighting Jacobson’s commitment to meaningful storytelling.
CBS News and CBS Saturday Morning
In 2015, Jacobson expanded her role by joining CBS News, where she took on responsibilities as a host and correspondent. She became a co-host for CBS Saturday Morning, a weekend news program that covers a wide range of topics, including politics, entertainment, and human-interest stories.
Her transition from sports journalism to broader news coverage showcased her adaptability and journalistic expertise. She continues to serve as an anchor and reporter for CBS Sports and CBS Sports Network, maintaining her strong presence in the industry.
Jacobson’s move to CBS has allowed her to explore new storytelling avenues while maintaining her passion for sports journalism. Her ability to connect with audiences, deliver compelling narratives, and provide insightful analysis has solidified her reputation as one of the most respected journalists in the field.
Relationship and Marriage
Jacobson’s personal life has been a topic of interest for many fans, particularly her relationship with Sean Grande, a well-known sportscaster. Jacobson and Grande first met in 2010, but their relationship didn’t begin until 2015. Their shared passion for sports and broadcasting created a strong foundation for their connection. Over the years, their bond grew, leading to an engagement announcement on October 11, 2018, during a segment on CBS’s This Morning.
On September 28, 2019, Jacobson and Grande tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony. Their wedding was a celebration of their love and shared journey in the world of sports media. Although Jacobson does not have biological children, she has embraced her role as a stepmother to Sean Grande’s son, Jack. She has spoken about her close relationship with Jack, describing herself as a “regular mom but a lot cooler.”
Physical Attributes
Jacobson’s presence on television is complemented by her distinctive physical attributes, which contribute to her professional image. Jacobson stands at 5 feet 11 inches (1.8 meters), making her taller than the average female journalist. Her height gives her a commanding presence on screen, enhancing her role as a news anchor and sports correspondent.
She maintains a healthy physique, weighing approximately 62 kg (136 lbs). Her fitness and confidence contribute to her dynamic on-air personality. Jacobson has black hair and brown eyes, which complement her professional and polished appearance
Controversies – 2008 ESPN Suspension
Like many public figures, Dana has faced controversies and challenges throughout her career. While her professionalism and dedication have been widely recognized, she has also encountered moments of scrutiny.
One of the most talked-about incidents in Jacobson’s career occurred in 2008, when she was suspended from ESPN for one week following comments made at a private roast event. The remarks, which were intended as jokes, sparked controversy and led to backlash from certain groups.
Jacobson later apologized on-air, acknowledging that her comments were inappropriate and expressing regret for any offense caused. Despite the controversy, she was able to move forward in her career, continuing to establish herself as a respected journalist.
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