Holly Morris, a well-known TV reporter, said goodbye to FOX 5 DC in 2024 after 25 years. She had a strong career in journalism, but a viral YouTube video with millions of views might not be what she wants to be remembered for.
Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Holly graduated from Duke University in 1993 with a civil engineering degree. She started working at WTTG, a Fox network station in Washington, D.C., in 1998. As part of the morning newscast and Good Day DC, she became a familiar face to many viewers. She was known for her hands-on reporting, often participating in activities while delivering the news. Her dedication earned her four regional Emmy Awards and a regional Edward R. Murrow Award for live reporting.
Holly’s career had its challenges. In 2014, she joined the viral Ice Bucket Challenge to raise awareness for ALS. However, years earlier, a radio show mocked her on a weekly segment, playing old clips for laughs.
In 2016, Holly opened up about her 2005 divorce from Tom Sater, a former Fox 5 weatherman. She shared how their marriage ended due to his affair with a co-worker. To make things worse, Holly unknowingly worked alongside the woman her husband was seeing. She later revealed that the situation was tough, especially since many colleagues knew about the affair before she did. However, she moved on and married lawyer Thomas Espy in 2007, later having a son named Hayden.
One of Holly’s most controversial moments happened in 2013 during President Obama’s second inauguration. She meant to say “inaugural,” but the word came out wrong, sparking online backlash. Some defended her, saying it was just an unfortunate mistake.
Holly left FOX 5 in March 2024, but a viral video from 2023 put her back in the spotlight. While hosting Good Day DC, her short dress and seated position led to an unintended moment. The camera didn’t adjust, and the clip quickly spread online. Some viewers questioned how it aired, while others saw it as just another unscripted moment on live TV. Unexpected moments like these are part of what makes live television so unpredictable.