Danita Harris has changed how news reporting was done in Cleveland in many ways. So. the news of her departure has hit many of her ardent followers hard.
Many want to know where she is going next.
Also, others want to know if she is married and has a support system in place after leaving the workplace where she has worked for more than two decades,
Yes, Danita Harris is married to Brad Pratt. He is a former minister from Springfield, Ohio, who relocated to Cleveland. They married in December 2006 and have two kids- Kanecia and Chase. On December 13, 2023, it was announced that Harris is leaving News 5 Cleveland, and her last broadcast will be on December 21, 2023. Her next job isn’t known yet.
Is Danita Harris Leaving News 5 Cleveland? Where Is She Heading Next?
After nearly 25 years of dedicated service, Danita Harris, a beloved anchor and inspirational voice in Northeast Ohio, has announced her departure from News 5 Cleveland.
Harris, who joined News 5 in 1998, has become one of Cleveland’s most cherished anchors. She shared the news of her departure during a heartfelt announcement. She said (as per the network’s website):
“I believe to everything there is a season. So, after 24 years at WEWS, my season has come to an end. I feel blessed to have started my relationship with Northeast Ohioans on the morning show, and I’m leaving the station as the morning anchor. I’ve completed the circle, and it’s time for me to move on.”
Harris bid farewell to her coworkers during an all-staff meeting on December 13, 2023, and she made a formal announcement to viewers on Good Morning Cleveland on December 14.
Her final broadcast will be on Thursday, December 21, and News 5 plans to celebrate her contributions during her last week on Good Morning Cleveland.
Reflecting on her time at WEWS, Harris expressed gratitude for the valuable lessons she learned and the wonderful colleagues she worked with.
Even as she bids farewell to her role as an anchor, Harris remains committed to serving her community through her nonprofit organization, SHINE.
She intends to volunteer for various organizations and continue her mission to empower women and students. Harris also emphasized her unwavering faith in God as a central aspect of her life and her dedication to spreading positivity and goodwill.
Danita Harris began her illustrious career at the Black Entertainment Television Network and later worked at WJLA in Washington before joining WEWS in 1998.
Throughout her career, Danita has reported on significant stories in Northeast Ohio and the nation, including issues related to HIV’s impact on African-American women and the 10th anniversary of 9/11.
Harris’ passion for people has garnered her numerous accolades, including induction into the Ohio Broadcasters Hall of Fame and recognition as the recipient of the “Woman of Vision” award from the National Coalition of 100 Black Women.
She also launched the nonprofit organization S.H.I.N.E. in 2016, which is aimed at empowering women and students.
Her podcast, “Voices for Change,” earned her an Edward R. Murrow award in 2021, in addition to nine Emmy Awards and a Chuck Heaton Award from the Cleveland Press Club.
She hasn’t announced where she will head next. She may reveal that information in the new year after the Christmas break.
Who Is Danita Harris’ Husband?
Danita Harris, the renowned anchor for WEWS-TV 5, shares a heartwarming love story with her husband, Brad Pratt.
Their journey began with a twist of fate when Brad, a former minister from Springfield, Ohio, relocated to Cleveland. Interestingly, before they met, Danita had already heard of Brad through church circles, setting the stage for their eventual encounter.
Brad’s proposal to Danita was a delightful surprise, taking place at her parents’ Strongsville home in December 2005.
Their wedding, which took place in a church beyond their own, followed the tradition of inviting the entire “church family,” as Brad’s father-in-law is a bishop.
This grand event in 2006 was attended by approximately 600 guests, a testament to the love and support the couple received from their community.
Danita radiated in an ivory satin Demetrios Couture gown, while her six bridesmaids, including her stepdaughter-to-be Kanecia Pratt, wore deep-orange satin dresses.
Their ceremony was filled with heartwarming moments, surprises, and the loving presence of close friends and family.
Notably, their former co-anchor, Adam Shapiro, who has since moved on to WNBC-TV in New York City, played a unique role as one of the ushers at the wedding, escorting Danita’s mother down the aisle.
Following their beautiful wedding, Danita and Brad embarked on a tropical getaway to St. Lucia, further solidifying their bond in a picturesque setting.
Today, Danita Harris and Brad Pratt enjoy a content and joyful life together. Their family is completed by two adorable children, Kanecia and Chase, and their cute dogs, Justin and Bastille.
Danita, who hails from Chester, Pennsylvania, attributes much of her success and happiness to the unwavering support of her parents, Theron Harris and Mattie Harris, who have been by her side throughout her remarkable journey.
What do you think Danita Harris’ future plans are? Will she move to another network? Which one might it be?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: News5 Cleaveland
