Last Updated: April 2026 | Reading Time: ~10 Minutes
If you have ever tuned into ABC7 Chicago for your morning weather update, you already know the face — composed, energetic, and refreshingly trustworthy. Cheryl Scott is one of the most recognizable meteorologists on Chicago television, and her reputation goes far beyond reading forecasts. She is a Brown University-educated scientist, a Division I track athlete, a humanitarian, and a media personality who has earned her place among the elite of American broadcast journalism.
But beyond the camera, many fans are curious about the real Cheryl Scott. How much does she earn? What is her net worth in 2026? Who is she married to — and what is the story behind the “no wedding ring” controversy that swept social media? This in-depth biography answers every question, covering her early life, education, career journey at ABC7, salary, net worth, and personal life in detail.
Let us get into everything you need to know about Cheryl Scott in 2026.
Who Is Cheryl Scott?
Cheryl Scott is an American meteorologist, geologist, and television personality best known as the lead weather anchor at ABC7 Eyewitness News in Chicago (WLS-TV) — consistently the highest-rated television station in the Chicago market. She is respected for her sharp scientific knowledge, her ability to communicate complex weather patterns to everyday viewers, and her genuine warmth on camera.
Key Points:
- Born and raised in New Jersey, she developed a love of science from childhood
- Recruited to run Division I track at Brown University, where she studied Geological Sciences
- Certified in Meteorology from Mississippi State University
- Began her broadcast career as an intern in 2006 and rose to lead meteorologist status by 2014
- Serves on the Board of Directors for the American Red Cross in Chicago
- Known for covering major severe weather events across the Midwest
She is not just a weather presenter — she is a credentialed scientist who brings real expertise to every broadcast, which is exactly why Chicago viewers have trusted her for over a decade.
Cheryl Scott Profile Summary
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Cheryl Scott |
| Date of Birth | January 29, 1985 |
| Age (2026) | 41 years old |
| Birthplace | New Jersey, USA |
| Hometown | Atco, Camden County, New Jersey |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White-American |
| Zodiac Sign | Aquarius |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 m) |
| Weight | Approximately 124 lbs (56 kg) |
| Mother | Marie Picciano Scott |
| Siblings | Two older brothers — Brian and Kevin |
| Education | Brown University (B.Sc. Geological Sciences, 2007); Mississippi State University (Meteorology Certification, 2010) |
| Relationship Status | Private (formerly engaged to Dante Deiana) |
| Employer | ABC7 Eyewitness News, Chicago (WLS-TV) |
| Annual Salary | $150,000 – $200,000 (estimated) |
| Net Worth (2026) | $1.5 million – $3.5 million (estimated) |
| Social Media | Instagram: @cherylscottwx |
Cheryl Scott Age — How Old Is She in 2026?
Cheryl Scott was born on January 29, 1985, which makes her 41 years old as of 2026. Her zodiac sign is Aquarius, a sign widely associated with independent thinking, progressive values, and intellectual curiosity — traits that align closely with her real-life personality and career path.
She has been in broadcast meteorology for nearly two full decades, which speaks volumes about her consistency, dedication, and adaptability in a competitive industry.
Age Details at a Glance
| Category | Detail |
| Date of Birth | January 29, 1985 |
| Age in 2026 | 41 years old |
| Zodiac Sign | Aquarius |
| Birth State | New Jersey, USA |
| Years in Broadcasting | 20+ years (since 2006) |
| Years at ABC7 Chicago | 12+ years |
Cheryl Scott Early Life and Background
Cheryl Scott was born and raised in Atco, an unincorporated community in the township of Waterford, Camden County, New Jersey. Growing up in South Jersey shaped her character in quiet but lasting ways. She was raised by her mother, Marie Picciano Scott, and grew up alongside her two older brothers, Brian and Kevin.
Her brothers were passionate sports fans — particularly fans of the Philadelphia Eagles and other Philly-based teams. Cheryl grew up immersed in that competitive, team-oriented environment. She would often borrow her brothers’ starter jackets to wear to school, soaking in the athletic culture around her.
From an early age, Cheryl displayed two standout traits: a passion for science and a gift for athletics. Thunderstorms, local weather events, and natural phenomena fascinated her growing up. At the same time, she was building a formidable athletic resume on the track.
Key Points About Her Childhood:
- Raised in South Jersey in a supportive family environment
- Grew up with two older brothers who heavily influenced her competitive drive
- Developed an early fascination with weather, storms, and natural science
- Excelled academically and athletically at Paul VI High School in Haddonfield, New Jersey
- Her athletic performance on the track attracted recruiters from top universities
Cheryl Scott Family
Cheryl Scott has always kept her family life relatively private. What is publicly known is that she shares a close bond with her mother, Marie Picciano Scott, and her two older brothers.
Her family background in New Jersey provided the foundation for her values — hard work, community, and a no-nonsense approach to building something real. Those values have been visible throughout her career.
She has no children as of 2026. Her personal relationship status has been the subject of public interest, which we cover in detail below.
Cheryl Scott Education
Cheryl Scott’s educational journey is impressive and worth highlighting — because it directly explains why she is one of the most credible meteorologists on Chicago television today.
Educational Background:
- Paul VI High School, Haddonfield, New Jersey — Graduated with strong academics and a standout track and field record
- Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island — Earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Geological Sciences in 2007. She was also a prominent member of Brown’s Division I track and field team, competing in events including the 4×400 relay, 4×100, and long jump. Her team still holds multiple records in Brown’s all-time top-10 leaderboard.
- Mississippi State University — Earned her Meteorology Certification in 2010, adding the professional credential needed to advance her broadcast career
She once told the Chicago Tribune about her time at Brown:
“I was a quick one. It led to great things and good opportunities, and I was recruited to run track at Brown University out of Paul VI High School.”
Her academic background in geological sciences — combined with a dedicated meteorology certification — makes her one of the better-credentialed weather anchors in major-market American television.
Cheryl Scott Career Highlights and Achievements
Cheryl Scott’s broadcasting career spans two decades and multiple markets across the United States. Her rise from intern to lead meteorologist at one of the country’s top television stations is a story of persistence, scientific credibility, and genuine skill.
Career Timeline
2006 — The Beginning Cheryl started her professional journey as an intern at WCAU-NBC 10 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, one of the country’s largest NBC-owned television stations. This early exposure to major-market broadcasting gave her a strong foundation.
2007 — First Full-Time Role She landed her first full-time position as weekend weathercaster at WSEE-TV in Erie, Pennsylvania. During this time, she also provided forecasts for a 24-hour Caribbean Weather Channel, broadening her forecasting experience across different climate regions.
2009 — Moving to Knoxville Cheryl joined WBIR-TV, the NBC affiliate in Knoxville, Tennessee, as weekend meteorologist. This role proved pivotal. In April 2011, she covered the devastating Knoxville tornadoes live — a major severe weather event that tested her skills and her composure. After the storm passed, she volunteered with the American Red Cross, which eventually led to her appointment to the Chicago Board of Directors for the organization.
September 2011 — Arrival in Chicago Cheryl joined NBC 5 in Chicago (WMAQ-TV) as the morning and weekend meteorologist — a significant market jump that established her in one of America’s largest cities.
December 2014 — ABC7 Eyewitness News This was the defining move of her career. Cheryl was hired as lead meteorologist at ABC7 Chicago (WLS-TV), the highest-rated television station in the Chicago market. The ABC7 news director praised her at the time as “an experienced and knowledgeable meteorologist who thrives on the complexities of Chicago’s volatile weather.”
July 2015 — Good Morning America Cheryl stepped in as a fill-in meteorologist for Good Morning America Weekend Edition, substituting for Rob Marciano. She appeared alongside anchor Paula Faris, receiving strong recognition for her national-level presentation.
2026 — Still Going Strong Cheryl continues to anchor weather forecasts at ABC7 Chicago, covering major weather events across the Midwest. She remains one of Chicago’s most trusted broadcast journalists.
Key Career Achievements
- Lead meteorologist at ABC7 Eyewitness News — highest-rated Chicago station
- Good Morning America fill-in, giving her national broadcast visibility
- Covered the 2011 Knoxville tornadoes with distinction
- Board of Directors member for the American Red Cross, Chicago chapter
- Participated in Chicago Public Library’s “Live From The Library” series
- Appeared on Jeopardy! and The Steve Harvey Show
- Recognized as one of Chicago’s most trusted weather personalities for over a decade
Cheryl Scott ABC7 — Her Role at the Station
ABC7 Chicago (WLS-TV) is not just any television station. It is the number-one rated station in the Chicago market, which is the third-largest television market in the United States. Holding the position of lead meteorologist there is a significant professional achievement.
Cheryl’s role at ABC7 involves daily weather forecasts, coverage of severe weather events across the Midwest, community engagement, and social media outreach to her audience. She is a fixture on the channel’s morning and evening broadcasts, and her engaging, scientifically grounded delivery has made her a viewer favorite since 2014.
Her position at ABC7 is not just a job — it is a platform. She uses it to inform the public during dangerous weather events, to advocate for community preparedness, and to stay connected with the viewers who rely on her daily.
Cheryl Scott Net Worth in 2026
Cheryl Scott’s net worth in 2026 is estimated to be between $1.5 million and $3.5 million, depending on the source. The variation in estimates reflects the fact that she has not publicly disclosed her financial details, which is standard for television personalities.
Her wealth comes from a combination of a strong television salary, years of broadcasting experience across multiple markets, brand partnerships, and media appearances.
Net Worth Breakdown
| Income Source | Estimated Contribution |
| ABC7 Eyewitness News Salary | Primary income — $150,000 to $200,000 annually |
| Previous TV Network Salaries | WBIR-TV, NBC 5, WSEE-TV, WCAU-NBC 10 |
| National Broadcast Appearances | Good Morning America, Steve Harvey Show, Jeopardy! |
| Brand Partnerships & Endorsements | Aligned with her public profile |
| Social Media Revenue | Instagram engagement and audience monetization |
| Savings & Investments | Accumulated over 20 years of professional career |
Estimated Net Worth Range (2026): $1.5 million – $3.5 million
Cheryl Scott Salary
Cheryl Scott’s annual salary at ABC7 Chicago is estimated to fall between $150,000 and $200,000. Industry benchmarks for senior meteorologists in major markets like Chicago typically range from $109,000 to $400,000 annually, with an average near $196,000. Given Cheryl’s experience level and her long-standing role as lead meteorologist at the market’s top-rated station, her salary likely sits at or above the industry average for her market.
During her earlier career at NBC 5, her reported salary was in the range of $74,000 to $124,000, which shows significant growth over time.
Key Points on Her Earnings:
- ABC7 Chicago is a premium market — salaries reflect that
- Senior meteorologists in Chicago earn an industry average near $196,000
- Her salary has grown substantially from her early career days
- National media appearances may supplement her primary income
- Her overall earning trajectory reflects a successful, long-tenured broadcast career
Is Cheryl Scott Married? Who Is Her Husband?
This is one of the most frequently searched questions about Cheryl Scott — and the answer requires a bit of context.
The Relationship with Dante Deiana
Cheryl Scott began dating Dante Deiana around 2016. The two met at a charity event in Chicago, and their relationship developed from there. Dante Deiana is well-known in Chicago’s entertainment and media scene. He is a DJ performing under the stage name “Dante The Don,” a resident DJ at Barstool Sports, a Mixshow DJ at Kiss FM and SiriusXM, and the sound and music engineer for the Chicago Cubs. He has also worked as senior vice president of marketing and brand management at Tally App and as entertainment director at Magnolia Café + Donuts.
In July 2018, Dante proposed to Cheryl at the 10,000-foot summit of the Haleakala volcano in Maui, Hawaii while the couple was on vacation. It was a sunset proposal that Cheryl herself described as “a dream for anyone but especially this meteorologist.” She announced the engagement on Instagram, sharing photos of the moment that went viral among her fanbase.
The “No Wedding Ring” Controversy
After years of wearing her engagement ring publicly and sharing glimpses of their relationship on social media, fans began noticing that Cheryl was no longer wearing her ring on air. This sparked widespread speculation about the state of the relationship.
Multiple credible sources indicate that Cheryl Scott and Dante Deiana called off their engagement in 2022, after approximately six years together. The couple never publicly addressed the breakup in detail, and neither confirmed nor denied it directly.
What We Know:
- Cheryl met Dante Deiana at a Chicago charity event around 2016
- Dante proposed at the Haleakala volcano summit in Maui, Hawaii, in July 2018
- They were engaged for several years but reportedly separated in 2022
- Cheryl stopped wearing her engagement ring publicly
- As of 2026, she has not confirmed any new relationship publicly
- She has no children
The “no wedding ring” moment became a talking point because Cheryl had been open about the engagement on social media. The disappearance of the ring — without explanation — left fans to draw their own conclusions.
Is Cheryl Scott married in 2026? Based on available information, she is not currently married and has not announced a new relationship publicly.
Cheryl Scott Personal Life and Interests
Away from the studio, Cheryl Scott is a multi-dimensional person with a full life outside of forecasting.
Key Personal Interests:
- Running and fitness — She was a Division I track athlete at Brown University and continues to embrace an active lifestyle. She has participated in running events and marathons.
- Traveling — Cheryl is an avid traveler and regularly shares photos from her adventures on Instagram.
- Nature and the outdoors — Her love of geological science extends into a personal appreciation for natural landscapes and outdoor exploration.
- Volunteering — Her work with the American Red Cross is not a PR move — she has been involved since covering the 2011 Knoxville tornadoes and genuinely committed her time to humanitarian work.
- Sports — Growing up in a sports-loving household, she remains a fan of Philadelphia-area sports teams.
- Pet ownership — Cheryl is a proud dog mom to her pet Lola, who appears regularly on her Instagram feed and has become something of a fan favorite.
- Dancing — She is known as a gifted dancer who enjoys entertaining her audience on TikTok and Instagram with dance content.
She participated in the Chicago Public Library’s “Live From The Library” series in July 2020, reading the children’s book Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs to young viewers — a moment that captured her fun-loving, community-centered side perfectly.
Cheryl Scott Social Media Presence
Cheryl Scott maintains an active and engaged social media presence, which has become an important part of her professional profile and her connection with Chicago viewers.
Social Media Statistics (Estimated 2026)
| Platform | Handle | Estimated Followers | Content Focus |
| @cherylscottwx | 100,000+ | Weather updates, lifestyle, travel, Lola the dog | |
| TikTok | @cherylscottwx | Growing | Dancing, weather content, behind-the-scenes |
| Twitter / X | @cherylscottwx | 50,000+ | Weather alerts, news, engagement |
| Cheryl Scott ABC7 | Significant audience | Weather forecasts, community updates |
Key Points on Her Social Media:
- Uses Instagram as her primary platform for personal and professional content
- Became known for dance videos on TikTok that delighted her audience
- Regularly posts timely weather updates during severe weather events
- Her dog Lola has become a beloved recurring character in her social media content
- Engagement is high, reflecting a loyal viewer base that follows her beyond TV
Social media has allowed Cheryl to extend her connection with Chicago’s audience beyond the morning broadcast, making her one of the more digitally engaged meteorologists in her market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How old is Cheryl Scott in 2026?
Cheryl Scott is 41 years old in 2026, born on January 29, 1985, in New Jersey.
Q2: What is Cheryl Scott’s net worth in 2026?
Her estimated net worth in 2026 ranges between $1.5 million and $3.5 million, built through her long career in broadcast meteorology.
Q3: How much does Cheryl Scott earn at ABC7?
Her annual salary at ABC7 Chicago is estimated between $150,000 and $200,000, consistent with senior meteorologist pay in a top-three U.S. television market.
Q4: Is Cheryl Scott married?
As of 2026, Cheryl Scott is not married. She was previously engaged to DJ Dante Deiana, but the couple reportedly ended their engagement in 2022.
Q5: Who is Dante Deiana?
Dante Deiana is an American DJ, entrepreneur, and marketing executive known by the stage name “Dante The Don.” He is the resident DJ at Barstool Sports and the music engineer for the Chicago Cubs. He and Cheryl Scott were engaged from 2018 to approximately 2022.
Q6: Why was Cheryl Scott not wearing a wedding ring?
Fans noticed Cheryl stopped wearing her engagement ring on air around 2022, which sparked breakup speculation. Reports suggest she and Dante Deiana called off their engagement that year, though neither confirmed the details publicly.
Q7: Where did Cheryl Scott go to college?
She attended Brown University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Geological Sciences in 2007, and later received a Meteorology Certification from Mississippi State University in 2010.
Final Thoughts
Cheryl Scott’s story is one of consistent effort, scientific excellence, and genuine human connection. She didn’t just stumble into a television career — she built one deliberately, starting from an internship in 2006 and working her way through multiple markets before arriving at the top of Chicago’s broadcast landscape.
What makes her stand out is not just her meteorology credentials or her Brown University education. It is the combination of all of it — the athlete who competed in Division I track, the scientist who studied geological sciences, the journalist who covered real tornadoes in real time, and the humanitarian who volunteered when the cameras weren’t rolling.
In 2026, at 41 years old with over two decades of experience behind her, Cheryl Scott remains one of Chicago’s most trusted voices in broadcast meteorology. Her estimated net worth of $1.5 million to $3.5 million reflects a career built on merit, and her continued prominence at ABC7 Eyewitness News confirms that she is far from finished.
Whether you are a fan of her weather forecasts, her Instagram dance videos, or her dog Lola, one thing is clear — Cheryl Scott is the real deal.
I am Lily, a writer who loves sharing blessings, quotes, and meaningful messages. I have three years of experience writing uplifting words. Nich is the creative mind behind many trending blessings, prayers, and wishes. His ideas inspire warm and thoughtful content. Together, we aim to spread positivity and faith through simple words.