Tracy Butler is a renowned American meteorologist and television personality best known for her work with ABC 7 Chicago. With over three decades of broadcasting experience, she stands as Chicago’s longest-running female meteorologist. Butler captivates viewers daily with accurate weather forecasts on ABC 7 News This Morning and provides weather updates for ESPN 1000 Radio. Her dedication to broadcasting, community service, and breast cancer awareness advocacy have established her as a beloved figure in Chicago media.
Tracy Butler Wikipedia
| Field | Details |
| Full name | Tracy Butler |
| Gender | Female |
| Date of birth | March 20 |
| Age | Exact birth year not publicly confirmed |
| Place of birth | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States |
| Current residence | Chicago suburbs, Illinois, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White American |
| Zodiac sign | Pisces |
| Religion | Christian |
| Sexual orientation | Straight |
| Height | Approximately 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) |
| Weight | Not publicly disclosed |
| Hair colour | Blonde |
| Eye colour | Hazel |
| Marital status | Married |
| Spouse | Michael Butler (married since September 5, 1992) |
| Children | Two daughters (Cassandra and Crystina) |
| Alma mater | Indiana University of Pennsylvania (B.S. in Broadcasting), Mississippi State University (Meteorology Certification) |
| Profession | Meteorologist, television personality, weather anchor |
| Net worth | Estimated at $1 million to $5 million |
Who is Tracy Butler?
Tracy Butler is an accomplished American meteorologist who has served ABC 7 Chicago since 1994. Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Butler developed her passion for broadcasting during seventh grade and pursued her dream with determination.
She graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Science degree in Broadcasting and later earned her meteorology certification from Mississippi State University in 2001.
Butler joined ABC 7 in 1994 and became the meteorologist for ABC 7 News This Morning in 1995. Her dedication to the profession has made her Chicago’s longest-running female meteorologist, a title she holds with pride.
She also provides weather updates for the station’s 11 AM newscast and ESPN 1000 Radio, making her a familiar voice across multiple platforms.
From 1993 to 2002, Butler filled in for weather anchors Spencer Christian and Tony Perkins on ABC’s Good Morning America, which significantly elevated her national profile.
Her career trajectory demonstrates consistent excellence, and she remains a trusted source for weather information among Chicago residents.
How old is Tracy Butler? Age and birthday
Tracy Butler celebrates her birthday on March 20 every year. The meteorologist’s exact birth year remains undisclosed, but various sources suggest she was born in the early 1960s, making her around 60 to 63 years old as of 2026. Her zodiac sign is Pisces, known for traits like compassion, creativity, and intuition.
Tracy Butler’s career journey
Early career beginnings
Tracy Butler started her broadcasting career as a weathercaster at WTRF-TV in Wheeling, West Virginia, in 1988.
Her talent quickly became evident, and she moved to WFMJ-TV in Youngstown, Ohio, where she served as chief weather anchor from 1988 to 1991.
She continued building her experience at WRIC-TV in Richmond, Virginia, anchoring the morning and noon weathercasts from 1992 to 1993.
Joining ABC 7 Chicago
Butler’s career reached new heights when she joined ABC 7 Chicago in 1994. She took over as the meteorologist for ABC 7 News This Morning in 1995 and has maintained this position for over three decades. Her consistency, accuracy, and warm on-screen presence have made her a household name in Chicago.
During her tenure at ABC 7, Butler has been an annual contributor to the station’s live coverage of the Chicago Auto Show in February. She previously co-hosted the Chicago Air & Water Show and All-Star Shootout Golf Show on ABC 7.
National recognition
Between 1993 and 2002, Butler filled in for weather anchors on ABC’s Good Morning America, gaining valuable national exposure.
This opportunity showcased her skills to a broader audience and solidified her reputation as a professional meteorologist.
Awards and achievements
Butler’s excellence in broadcasting has earned her numerous accolades. She is a sealed member of the National Weather Association and the American Meteorological Society.
In 2014, she won an Emmy Award along with the ABC 7 Weather Team for the special broadcast “Surviving the Storm.”
She was named “Woman of the Year” by the Executive Women’s Golf Association and received the Illinois Treasurer’s Public Service Award.
In 2012, she was honored with the Public Education Award from the Illinois Chapter of the MS Society, recognizing her extensive community service work.
Butler’s alma mater, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, recognized her with a Distinguished Alumni Award, celebrating her contributions to the broadcasting field and her positive representation of the university.
Weather Sketchers Club
One of Butler’s most beloved initiatives is the Weather Sketchers Club, a program she created to encourage children aged 13 and younger to express their creativity through weather-related art. Children from across the Chicago area send their drawings to ABC 7, and Butler features 10 selected sketches each week during her weather segments.
“I LOVE seeing how children express their creativity through markers, crayons, paints and pencils. Their interpretations of weather elements on paper bring new eyes to something that affects us all,” Butler shared on the ABC 7 website.
The program gained popularity as many schools cut their art and music programs. Butler believes nurturing creativity is essential, recognizing that some children communicate better through visual art.
What is Tracy Butler’s net worth and salary?
As of 2026, Tracy Butler’s net worth is estimated to range between $1 million and $5 million. Different sources provide varying estimates, with some reporting approximately $4 million to $5 million as of recent years.
Butler earns her wealth primarily through her long-standing career as a meteorologist at ABC 7 Chicago. Her estimated annual salary ranges from $60,000 to $230,000, depending on the source.
Given her seniority, decades of experience, and multiple roles (morning news meteorologist, 11 AM newscast meteorologist, and ESPN 1000 Radio weather contributor), her compensation likely falls on the higher end of this spectrum.
Her net worth has been built through consistent work, multiple revenue streams, and her reputation as Chicago’s longest-running female meteorologist.
Beyond her television salary, Butler has participated in various media projects, community events, and charity initiatives that contribute to her overall earnings.
Is Tracy Butler married? Husband, relationship status, and family
Marriage to Michael Butler
Tracy Butler is married to Michael Butler, a fellow Pittsburgh native. The couple first met in 1990 on a blind date arranged by Tracy’s cousin.
After dating for two years, they married on September 5, 1992, and celebrated their 33th wedding anniversary in 2025.
Michael Butler owns a personal training studio and has been described by Tracy as “a rock” who has supported her career throughout their marriage. The couple shares a love for golf and often plays together whenever their schedules allow.
In a 2020 interview, Tracy credited her husband as her biggest cheerleader: “My husband, Michael, is a rock. Seriously, he has been such a big cheerleader and supporter of my career.
I have been so blessed that he has always understood my work schedule and is there whenever I need him.”
Tracy Butler’s daughters
Tracy and Michael are proud parents to two daughters, Cassandra and Crystina. Both daughters are accomplished students and athletes who excel in tennis and golf.
Cassandra, the older daughter, graduated from high school in 2021. During Tracy’s breast cancer diagnosis in 2018, Cassandra showed her support by creating a calligraphy piece featuring a Bible verse, which Tracy found on her bed one evening. This gesture deeply moved Tracy and provided comfort during her treatment journey.
Crystina, the younger daughter, was 15 years old in 2021 and continues to thrive in both academics and athletics.
Both daughters have grown up in the Chicago suburbs and maintain close relationships with their mother despite her demanding early morning work schedule.
Tracy often shares glimpses of her family life on social media, expressing gratitude for her daughters’ accomplishments and the strong family bond they share.
Family background
Tracy Butler was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Her parents have been married for over 64 years, a milestone Tracy celebrated on social media, describing them as “amazing people” who shaped who she is today through their guidance, support, and work ethic.
Tracy has two brothers, Mark and David, both of whom live away from Chicago. Mark is a talented musician who even wrote a song for Tracy, while David also pursued his own career path. Tracy has mentioned missing her brothers and their families.
Tracy Butler’s battle with breast cancer
In December 2018, Tracy Butler received a life-changing phone call informing her that she had breast cancer. The diagnosis came after she finally scheduled a mammogram appointment, something she had postponed for three years due to her busy schedule.
“I kid you not, last year in early December, I said this is my Christmas gift to myself. I’m going to get a mammogram,” Butler shared in a 2019 interview with the Chicago Sun-Times. “And I firmly believe that God was there telling me this is your Christmas gift to yourself.”
Butler’s diagnosis was particularly shocking because she had no family history of breast cancer. MS (Multiple Sclerosis) and heart disease ran in her family, but never cancer, which made the news even more unexpected.
Treatment and recovery
Butler underwent surgery and treatment, supported by her husband Michael, her daughters, her family, and her close circle of friends. She credits having an advocate with her during doctor’s appointments as invaluable, since much of what doctors said during the initial diagnosis didn’t fully register.
By late 2019, Butler announced she was cancer-free. She publicly shared her journey in September 2019, using her platform to encourage women not to postpone their annual mammograms.
“Please don’t ever be too busy to take care of yourself,” Butler urged viewers and readers. “After I made my announcement, I can’t tell you how many people wrote to me and have used the word fear.
Because they fear what the diagnosis is going to be. Maybe they have a family history. But do you really want to go along not knowing? Because look at me — there’s something that can be done.”
Butler’s openness about her diagnosis and treatment has inspired countless women to prioritize their health and schedule regular screenings. She emphasizes that early detection saved her life and continues to advocate for breast cancer awareness.
Tracy Butler’s community involvement and charity work
Butler is deeply committed to community service and regularly participates in charitable activities throughout the Chicago area.
The Duke Classic golf outing
In 2013, Butler and co-director Scott Woodruff created The Duke Classic, a charity golf outing honoring the memory of long-time ABC 7 cameraman Michael Dukewich, who passed away in 2012.
The inaugural outing raised nearly $100,000 to benefit the Greater Chicago Food Depository and the Wounded Warrior Project.
Charity golf participation
Butler loves golf and frequently participates in charity golf outings. She plays in the CATA’s (Chicago Automobile Trade Association) annual golf outings and has participated in numerous other charitable golf events throughout her career.
Her involvement in these events combines her passion for golf with her commitment to giving back to the community.
Emceeing charitable events
Butler serves as emcee for several annual charity events, including:
- The MS Walk for Charity
- The Les Turner ALS Walk for Life
- Metropolitan Family Services Holiday Celebration
ReClaim 13 involvement
Butler is involved with ReClaim 13, a charity devoted to ending the sexual exploitation of children and raising awareness about human trafficking.
This cause holds special significance for her, and she uses her platform to bring attention to this critical issue.
Tracy Butler’s social media presence
Tracy Butler maintains an active presence on social media platforms, connecting with her audience beyond television broadcasts.
As of February 2026, Butler has approximately 21,000 followers on Instagram (@tracybutlerabc7), where she shares weather updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses of her work, family moments, and her love for golf and her dogs.
Her posts often feature her silver lab and reflect her faith, family values, and professional dedication.
On Facebook, Tracy Butler’s page (@TracyButlerABC7) has over 72,000 followers. She regularly engages with her audience, sharing weather forecasts, personal milestones, and community events.
Her Facebook presence allows viewers to interact with her directly and stay updated on her professional and charitable activities.
Butler also maintains a presence on Twitter/X (@TracyButlerABC7), where she shares weather updates, promotes ABC 7 programming, and connects with colleagues and viewers.
Her social media profiles emphasize her core values: “Love The Lord. Love my family. Love to golf. Love Tom Petty’s music! Love my dogs!” This authentic approach has helped her build a loyal following that extends beyond traditional television viewership.
Fast facts about Tracy Butler
- Seventh-grade dream: Tracy Butler knew she wanted to work in TV broadcasting since she was in seventh grade, inspired by growing up in Pittsburgh, home of KDKA Radio, the world’s first commercial radio station.
- General Hospital superfan: Butler is a devoted fan of ABC Daytime’s General Hospital and occasionally hosts “Soap Chat” with fellow ABC 7 personality Diane Pathieu, discussing storylines and characters.
- Tom Petty music lover: Butler is a huge fan of Tom Petty’s music and frequently mentions this passion on her social media profiles.
- Dog mom: Tracy is a proud dog owner who frequently shares photos and videos of her silver lab and other furry friends on social media.
- Twizzler addiction: Butler has humorously admitted to having a “serious Twizzler addiction,” a sweet treat she enjoys.
- Puzzle enthusiast: Butler loves building puzzles and compares weather forecasting to puzzle-solving, saying both involve fitting different pieces together to see the complete picture.
- Parents’ 64-year marriage: Tracy’s parents have been married for over 64 years, a relationship that continues to inspire her own approach to marriage and family.
- 32 years at ABC 7: As of 2026, Butler has been with ABC 7 Chicago for 32 years, marking her arrival in 1994 and celebrating this milestone in early 2026.
- Meteorology certification at 40s: While Butler earned her broadcasting degree in 1985 from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, she didn’t complete her meteorology certification from Mississippi State University until 2001, demonstrating dedication to continuous professional development.
- Weather and wellness advocate: Following her breast cancer diagnosis and recovery, Butler has become a passionate advocate for women’s health, regularly encouraging mammogram screenings and wellness check-ups.
Read more: How old is Freya Skye? age, height, net worth, boyfriend, career
Wrapping up
Tracy Butler has built a remarkable career as Chicago’s longest-running female meteorologist, serving ABC 7 Chicago for over three decades.
Her journey from Pittsburgh to becoming a household name in Chicago broadcasting demonstrates her talent, dedication, and authentic connection with viewers.
Beyond her professional achievements, Butler’s advocacy for breast cancer awareness, commitment to charitable causes, and devotion to her family showcase her as not just a talented meteorologist but a compassionate community leader.
As she continues her work at ABC 7 and through various charitable initiatives, Tracy Butler remains a respected and beloved figure in Chicago media.
References
- ABC7 Chicago. “Tracy Butler – ABC7 Chicago”.
- Briefly.co.za. “Who is Tracy Butler? Age and biography of the ABC 7 meteorologist”.
- Chicago Sun-Times. “One year after a cancer diagnosis, ABC-7’s Tracy Butler is doing ‘so very well’”.
- IUP Alumni Community. “Butler, Tracy ’85”.
- Hinsdale Magazine. “Shining Bright”.
- West Suburban Living. “Q & A with Tracy Butler”.
- ABC7 Chicago. “Tracy Butler celebrating 30 years at ABC7”.
Disclaimer: The information published on CelabMagazine.com is gathered from reliable and trusted sources. However, we do not guarantee the absolute accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of celebrity profiles, net worth figures, biographical details, or other content. We recommend readers independently verify information before making any decisions based on it. For corrections, updates, or any inquiries, please contact us at info@celabmagazine.com.
