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Roz Varon's Age And Legacy: 5 Key Facts About The Trailblazing ABC7 Traffic Anchor After Her Retirement

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The question of "What is the age of Roz Varon?" has taken on new significance since her groundbreaking retirement from ABC 7 Chicago in April 2024. As of late , the beloved Emmy Award-winning traffic and transportation anchor is 68 years old, having celebrated her birthday in November. Her departure marked the end of a remarkable 35-year career at the station, where she pioneered TV traffic reporting and became a daily fixture for generations of Chicago commuters.

The veteran journalist, known for her warm demeanor and authoritative traffic updates, continues to be a prominent figure in the Chicagoland community, transitioning her focus to new adventures and advocacy work. Her recent retirement is the most current and vital piece of information, signifying a major life change for the television legend who was the first in the country to bring rush hour traffic reporting to morning news television.

Roz Varon: Complete Biography and Professional Profile

Roz Varon’s life and career are defined by her pioneering spirit, deep connection to Chicago, and resilience, particularly in her role as a breast cancer survivor. Here is a detailed look at the profile of the celebrated traffic anchor:

  • Full Name: Roz Varon
  • Date of Birth: November 25, 1957 (Conflicting sources exist, but 1957 is the most consistent and aligns with her 2025 age of 68).
  • Current Age (as of December 2025): 68 years old.
  • Place of Birth: New York, America (though she is a proud Chicago native).
  • Current Residence: River Forest, Illinois.
  • Education: Graduated from Columbia College Chicago.
  • Primary Career Role: Traffic/Transportation Anchor and Reporter for ABC 7 Eyewitness News This Morning (WLS-TV Chicago).
  • Career Span at ABC 7: April 1989 – April 5, 2024 (35 years).
  • Key Achievement: Recognized as the first person in the country to bring rush hour traffic reporting to TV morning news.
  • Awards: Emmy Award-winning journalist.
  • Personal Life: Married with a daughter.
  • Health Advocacy: A vocal breast cancer survivor since 2006.

The End of an Era: Varon’s Trailblazing 35-Year Career at ABC 7

Roz Varon's tenure at ABC 7 Chicago is a masterclass in broadcast longevity and professional innovation. When she joined the station in April 1989, she wasn't just taking a job; she was creating a new standard for television news.

Varon was the first person in the entire country to deliver dedicated rush hour traffic reporting on a morning news program. This role, which required her to guide millions of Chicago-area drivers through the city's infamous congestion, quickly made her an indispensable part of the morning routine. Her authoritative yet reassuring delivery helped Chicagoans reach their destinations safely and efficiently for over three decades.

Her work was not limited to just reporting accidents and delays. As a transportation anchor, she provided context, analyzed trends, and became the trusted voice of the Chicago commute. The sheer duration of her service—35 years—is a testament to her dedication and her unique ability to connect with a massive, daily audience.

Her retirement, which took place on April 5, 2024, was a significant event in Chicago media. It prompted an outpouring of appreciation from colleagues, viewers, and the community she served so faithfully. Her final broadcast was a heartfelt moment, sharing a goodbye message and thank you after a career that spanned nearly four decades.

Life After the Morning Commute: Retirement and Continued Advocacy

Since stepping away from the daily grind of the ABC 7 Eyewitness News This Morning desk, Roz Varon has embraced her retirement, but she certainly hasn't slowed down. Her post-television life is characterized by a continued passion for the Chicagoland area and a focus on personal well-being and advocacy.

Her personal website, "On the Road with Roz Varon," remains a platform where she shares her adventures, travel tips, and insights on life in Chicagoland and beyond. This allows her to maintain a connection with her loyal audience, shifting from reporting on traffic to sharing personal "life travels" and "virtual vacations."

A Powerful Voice for Health and Resilience

One of the most defining aspects of Roz Varon's public life is her role as a breast cancer survivor. Diagnosed in 2006, she has openly shared her journey, turning a personal struggle into a powerful platform for advocacy.

Varon has often referred to her breast cancer diagnosis as a "brocha in disguise," emphasizing the positive perspective and lessons she gained from the experience. Her willingness to discuss her health challenges has made her a relatable and inspiring figure, encouraging countless women in the Chicago area to prioritize screenings and early detection.

Her Enduring Legacy in Chicago Media

Roz Varon’s impact extends far beyond her age and her years on air. Her legacy is one of a true pioneer who carved out a new niche in broadcast journalism. She proved that specialized reporting, such as traffic and transportation, could be vital, engaging, and worthy of an Emmy Award-winning career.

As a lifelong Chicagoan who grew up, got her degree at Columbia College, and worked her entire career in the city, she embodies the spirit of the region. Her retirement is not just a personal milestone but a moment to reflect on the enormous influence she had in shaping how millions of people start their day. At 68, Roz Varon has transitioned from guiding traffic to guiding her own path, continuing to inspire her community with resilience and grace.

age of roz varon
age of roz varon

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