Where Are They Now: Chris Tye's Journey from WKYC to Investigative Impact in Chicago

By Frank Macek

Chris Tye (Courtesy: WBBM-TV)

If you watched Channel 3 News in Cleveland anytime during the 2000s and 2010s, you probably remember the polished delivery and sharp reporting of Chris Tye. For 15 years, Chris was a staple at WKYC, covering everything from big breaking stories to thoughtful investigations, always with a calm presence that viewers trusted. But like many journalists who put in their time in Cleveland, Chris eventually moved on. So—where is he now?

Turns out, Chris didn’t just leave Northeast Ohio for the sake of it—he went home. After his long tenure at WKYC, Chris returned to his roots in Chicago, where he grew up in the suburb of Oak Park. In 2019, he joined CBS News Chicago (WBBM-TV) as a weekend evening anchor and political reporter, marking a full-circle moment in his career. For Chris, it wasn’t just about taking on a new job—it was about telling the stories of the city where he was raised and getting a chance to reconnect with family and friends after years away.

Even in Chicago, his storytelling instincts haven’t changed. Chris has built a strong reputation for his investigative reporting. One of his standout series exposed how the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services had been shackling foster children during transport. The public outcry was swift, and more importantly—so was the response from lawmakers. New legislation was introduced and passed, banning the practice. It’s one of those moments that reminds you why good journalism still matters. Another story led to major changes at the state’s unemployment office after his reporting uncovered that thousands of residents had their Social Security numbers mistakenly mailed out due to a clerical error. Chris doesn’t just chase headlines—he digs deep, holds people accountable, and creates real impact.

You can still see the same passion he brought to WKYC in the way he handles big breaking news in Chicago. During the 2022 Highland Park parade shooting, Chris anchored 12 straight hours of live coverage—a marathon effort that brought facts and calm to a deeply shaken community. He’s also covered presidential campaigns, the Kenosha unrest, and major issues around policing and public safety. Through it all, Chris remains composed, prepared, and genuinely invested in the people affected by the stories he tells.

Chris Tye & Robin Swoboda

What’s always stood out about Chris—even back in his WKYC days—is that he has the ability to connect. He can break down complex political topics without making it feel like a lecture. And even when he’s reporting on emotionally heavy material, he never loses sight of the human side. That kind of storytelling isn’t easy. It takes empathy, skill, and a lot of experience—which he definitely has after more than two decades in the business.

Cleveland played a big role in shaping Chris Tye as a journalist. His work here helped him fine-tune his voice, take on difficult subjects, and establish his identity on the anchor desk. Many of us who worked with him—or just watched him—knew he had the talent and drive to go even further. It was only a matter of time before a larger market called him back.

But what’s nice to see is that Chris hasn’t forgotten where he came from. He’s still connected with colleagues and friends in Cleveland. Every once in a while, you’ll catch him making a nod to WKYC or reminiscing about stories from his Ohio days. And for those of us who remember tuning into Channel 3 and seeing him on the anchor desk of Channel 3 News Today, Channel 3 News at 7 or in the field, it’s rewarding to know he’s doing meaningful, impactful work—and still holding onto the same journalistic values he showed here.

He’s also balancing a busy career with family life. Chris is now a husband and dad, living on Chicago’s North Side. And while the job demands haven’t slowed down, you can tell from his interviews and online presence that he’s found a good balance between the newsroom and home.

Erin Kenney, Chris Tye & Hollie Strano

In a world where so many TV journalists bounce from market to market, chasing promotions and ratings, Chris has taken a path that feels grounded. He’s not just anchoring shows and filing political pieces—he’s using the platform to make change and to elevate important conversations in his community. That’s something we all can appreciate, whether you’re in Chicago, Cleveland, or anywhere else.

So where is Chris Tye now? He’s exactly where he’s meant to be: back in his hometown, doing work that matters, and proving that thoughtful, in-depth local journalism still has a place in today’s world. For those of us who remember his time in Cleveland, it’s gratifying to see someone who left a positive impression here go on to even greater things—without losing what made him great in the first place. 

You can reach Chris: CJTYE@CBS.COM

← Read More Articles on the Director's Cut Blog