As a trailblazing journalist, Connie Chung is best known for making history as one of the first Asian American women to anchor a major network newscast in the United States. Her fruitful career spans over four decades. Chung has worked at nearly every major broadcast network, including CBS, NBC, ABC, CNN and MSNBC.

She quickly became a household name in the 90s, thanks to being on programs like “20/20.” She was recognized for her signature calm yet direct interviewing style. Known for high-profile interviews with names, like Richard Nixon and Magic Johnson, Chung paved the way for intersectional women in journalism. With her marriage to talk show host Maury Povich still going strong, the duo stands as one of TV’s most recognizable power couples. Here’s everything to know about her iconic legacy and the net worth she carries along.

How Did Connie Chung Become Famous?

Chung’s rise to fame began in the early 70s, when she joined “CBS News” as a Washington-based correspondent during the Watergate era. It was certainly a heightened time for news anchors. Her sharp reporting and on-screen poise quickly advanced her in the field. In 1983, she became co-anchor of the “NBC News at Sunrise” before making history as co-anchor of the “CBS Evening News.”  Here, she served as the second woman and the first Asian American to hold such a role on a major U.S. network. From presidential interviews to celebrity exposés, Chung was well-known for her hard-hitting interviews and journalistic prowess.

While she saw much success, her reign was not marked without controversy. Chung was widely criticized for sarcasm when covering the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing. This led thousands of viewers to call in and write letters of protest. This eventually led to Chung leaving the network after being removed as co-anchor of “CBS Evening News.” Her 1995 interview with Kathleen Gingrich also made headlines, where she controversially coaxed a comment about Hillary Clinton. It drew national attention and criticism, making her a lasting figure in media history.

Business Endeavors

While Chung is primarily known for journalism, her long-standing career has also expanded into media consulting, speaking engagements and hosting opportunities that extended her influence beyond the news desks.

She and Povich also launched a short-lived show together called “Weekends with Maury and Connie.” It aired on MSNBC in 2006. Though it lasted only a few months, it became a memorable part of her career and solidified them as a news power couple. Beyond her work in television, Chung has publicly participated in philanthropic efforts, especially supporting Asian American advocacy organizations and journalism schools.

What Is Connie Chung’s Net Worth?

Chung’s estimated net worth is approximately $80 million, though that number likely reflects a combined net worth with her husband. On her own, the number $20 million may be more accurate estimation, noting her earnings from decades at major networks, anchor and correspondent salaries for national news programs, appearances, special projects, and syndication residuals.

While she has largely stepped out of the public spotlight in recent years, Chung’s legacy remains incomparable. In fact, her peak salary during the height of her anchoring career is believed to have reached $2 to $4 million annually.

What Is Her Husband’s Net Worth?

Together, Chung and Maury Povich have built one of the most financially successful marriages in broadcast history. Povich boasts an impressive fortune with a net worth estimated at $80 to $90 million.

He is best known for hosting the controversial talk show “Maury,” which ran for over 30 years. The iconic show’s popularity was especially due to its paternity test segments. This made him one of the most recognizable figures in daytime TV. Maury’s success in syndication and television production significantly boosted his earnings. In fact, certain reports suggest he earned $13 to $15 million per year at the show’s peak.

Are Maury and Connie Still Married?

Chung and Povich are still married and have been for nearly 40 years. The power duo tied the knot in 1984 and remain one of the longest lasting marriages in television. They adopted a son, Matthew Jay Povich, in 1995, choosing to keep their family life private. While both have stepped back from being in front of the camera, they continue to occasionally appear in public in support of one another.

How Did Maury Povich Meet Connie Chung?

A forever love story, Chung and Povich first met in 1983 while working at WTTG, a local news station in Washington, D.C. They had no idea the bright careers and even brighter love that lay ahead. At the time, Povich was anchoring the evening news, and Chung had recently joined the station. Their connection was immediate, sparked by a shared passion for journalism and a mutual respect for each other’s talent. The two began dating not long after meeting and married in 1984. Despite working in the same industry, they have maintained a strong and enduring marriage while supporting each other completely. In interviews, both have spoken openly about how humor and communication have been keys to their lasting relationship. Today, they are considered one of broadcast journalism’s most iconic power couples.

What Happened with Dan Rather and Connie Chung?

Chung’s working relationship with Dan Rather was one of the most talked-about dynamics in 90s television news. In 1993, Chung claimed the title of co-anchor on the CBS Evening News alongside Rather. This historical moment made her the first Asian-American woman to co-anchor a major network’s nightly news broadcast.

However, their partnership could not escape behind-the-scenes tension. Rumors circulated that Rather was uncomfortable sharing the spotlight, and some CBS insiders claimed there was a lack of chemistry between the two. Critics also argued that Chung was often treated unfairly and wasn’t given the editorial autonomy or screen time she deserved. Following some controversy, CBS eventually removed her from the anchor desk.

After Chung’s departure, Rather resumed solo anchoring. While both have remained publicly cordial, their professional drama embodied the issues that lie in newsroom politics, gender dynamics and the challenges women of color face in male-dominated spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Connie Chung Chinese? Connie Chung is the youngest of five sisters in a Chinese family. She is also the only one born in the United States.

Does Connie Chung have any biological children? No, Connie Chung does not have any biological children. In 1995, Chung and Povich adopted their son, Matthew Jay Povich. They are also parents to two daughters, Susan and Amy, from Povich’s previous marriage.