Early Life and Education

Born on December 19, 1967, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Bill Weir developed a passion for communications from a young age. Supported by encouraging parents, he cultivated a strong curiosity about world affairs and the power of storytelling. Known for his enthusiasm and intelligence, he grew into a sociable and driven teenager. Weir pursued his academic interests at Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, graduating with a major in Journalism and Creative Writing.

Personal Life

Bill Weir is married to Jackie, and together they have a daughter. The family maintains a relatively private personal life, focusing on shared values and a strong familial bond.

Career in Journalism

Shortly after graduating from college, Weir began his career in broadcast journalism. His first position was as a general assignment reporter and weekend sportscaster at KAAL in Austin, Minnesota—not Texas, as often mistakenly cited. His passion for sports helped him secure subsequent roles, including a sports anchor position at WLUK-TV in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

Between 1995 and 2004, Weir honed his craft at several major media outlets, including WGN in Chicago, KABC-TV in Los Angeles, USA Network, and Fox Sports. His compelling storytelling and on-camera skill eventually led him to a national platform with ABC News in 2004. At ABC, he became known for his insightful coverage of major global developments, including the rise of economic powers like India and China, conditions across the Middle East, the impact of Hurricane Katrina, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Weir produced and delivered several memorable live reports, including a groundbreaking 2007 underwater broadcast from Australia's Great Barrier Reef and live coverage from Tibet—the first by an American journalist. His fieldwork in post-Katrina New Orleans and war-torn Iraq further solidified his reputation as a thoughtful and courageous reporter.

Role at CNN and The Wonder List

In 2013, Bill Weir joined CNN as Chief Innovation Correspondent. The move aligned with CNN’s efforts to explore journalism beyond traditional reporting. Weir brought with him a wealth of experience, having already created and hosted television content for networks including USA and Fox. At CNN, he launched The Wonder List with Bill Weir, a documentary series exploring places and cultures facing rapid transformation due to environmental and societal change.

His work on The Wonder List has been praised for combining rich visuals with meaningful storytelling, focusing on sustainability, climate change, and endangered natural and cultural wonders. The series has expanded discussions on environmental journalism and the human stories behind global shifts.