Alex Cheney, a familiar face to Southern California viewers, is a meteorologist and general assignment reporter for ABC7 Eyewitness News. But how did he get there? This article traces Cheney’s journey from aspiring journalist to prominent news personality, exploring his early influences, education, and career progression. We delve into his experiences, from his college days at Louisiana State University to his current role at ABC7, providing insight into the path of this accomplished broadcaster.
From College Campus to Broadcast Studio: Cheney’s Early Career
Cheney’s passion for broadcasting ignited early. He recalls mornings spent watching SportsCenter, fascinated by the constant updates and dynamic nature of television news. This curiosity led him to audition for “Tiger TV,” the student-run station at Louisiana State University (LSU), where he majored in broadcast journalism. Initially intending to study biochemistry, a chance encounter with an anchor audition sign changed his trajectory.
At Tiger TV, Cheney immersed himself in every aspect of production. He served as an anchor, reporter, producer, director, editor, and photographer, gaining valuable experience in both news and sports reporting. He even managed the entire sports program, handling reporters and budgets. This comprehensive background prepared him for the demands of professional broadcasting.
Honing His Skills: Cheney’s Journey Through Local News
After graduating from LSU in 2015, Cheney’s career took him to KYMA in Yuma, Arizona, where he worked as a weekday news anchor. He credits this experience with solidifying his desire to return to the West Coast. He then transitioned to Palm Springs, California, taking on roles as a weekend weather forecaster, reporter, and eventually a sports anchor and reporter. This period allowed him to diversify his skills and gain crucial on-air experience in various news formats. He even filled in as the main weatherman in Yuma, providing a valuable crash course in meteorology.
Landing at ABC7: Cheney’s Prominent Role in Los Angeles
Cheney’s hard work and dedication culminated in a pivotal moment in May 2019: a phone call from ABC7. He joined the Eyewitness News team in Los Angeles, where he currently serves as a weather forecaster and general assignment reporter. His engaging on-air presence and ability to ad-lib weather forecasts have made him a favorite among viewers.
He credits an internship at ESPN during his junior year at LSU with providing invaluable insights into the inner workings of a major sports network and solidifying his professional aspirations. This experience, along with his diverse roles in local news, paved the way for his success at ABC7.
Beyond the Forecast: Cheney’s Reporting and Personal Interests
While known for his weather forecasting, Cheney has also covered significant news stories, including a standoff at a Maserati dealership in Santa Monica and the work of street medical teams testing the homeless population for COVID-19. His experiences range from covering gruesome accidents to reporting on wildfires, demonstrating his versatility as a journalist.
Beyond his broadcasting career, Cheney is a passionate musician. He’s played guitar since junior high and cites influences ranging from Jimi Hendrix to Freddie Mercury. This eclectic taste reflects his multifaceted personality and interests outside the newsroom.
Where is Alex Cheney Now?
Alex Cheney continues to deliver weather forecasts and reports for ABC7 Eyewitness News. You can catch him on weekends at 4 PM to 5:30 PM on ABC KABC Channel 7, at 7 PM on KDOC TV, and at 11 PM on ABC KABC Channel 7. He also provides live reporting during the week. He is active on social media under the handle @abc7alexcheney.
