Val Warner
Each Friday on Windy City Weekend, Val continues to bring fun to daytime television covering everything Chicago from what you don't want to miss on the weekends to talking about what's on people's mind in her signature "Host Chat" segment with Ryan Chiaverini.
From the first moment Val auditioned at ABC 7, the producers knew they had someone special. Val's sparkle, sense of humor, warmth and commitment to the community has continued to make her one of Chicago's most popular personalities.
Val knows how to get the best out of an interview and is just as comfortable interviewing the stars as she is with those who are not household names. She has interviewed many top celebrities including Robin Roberts, Barbara Walters, Chance the Rapper, Common, Jane Lynch, Anthony Anderson, Barry Manilow and David Muir.
The trust she has earned in the community garnered two exclusive interviews others were unable to secure including: the first interview with Spike Lee before his controversial movie was released and the first and only interview with Karla Lee, the mother of slain 9-year-old, Tyshawn Lee.
Val's talent as host and interviewer contributed to ABC 7 winning three prestigious Chicago Emmy Awards for special programming she did on bullying, breast cancer and stopping violence in Chicago. She won another Emmy for her role in ABC 7's New Year's special, COUNTDOWN CHICAGO.
Val contributes to ABC 7 Chicago programming efforts and has served as a co-host of ABC 7's Chicago Lights Festival and the annual Bud Billiken Parade.
Val knows the importance of giving back to the community. She volunteers her free time helping numerous charitable organizations throughout the Chicago area including The Make-A-Wish Foundation, Chicago Bulls Charities, and the South Suburban Family Shelter, among others. She has received many honors for her community service.
Val received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California at San Diego in 1996.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Val's family roots emanated from Chicago and she has considered Chicago her home since moving here in 2005. When not working at ABC 7, Val's main focus is her family. She recently married the love of her life, Elijah Maxey, Jr. ("Jobba") and is always connecting with her daughter Zoe in college or watching her son Max play high school sports. Her Shih Tzu Kobe, now a senior, is also an important part of the family.
Val's Stories
Chicago native, TikTok influencer shares insights about Gen Z in the workforce
Laughing through the ups and downs of working in corporate has been a hot trend on TikTok.
Black Girls Jump: Chicago organization brings generations together by teaching double Dutch
In June, the team is planning to participate in their first national tournament in Cincinnati.
Our Chicago: Neighborhood Walk with Val Warner in Auburn Gresham
ABC7's Val Warner was joined by Saint Sabina Church's Father Michael Pfleger on a visit to the city's Auburn Gresham neighborhood.
Track Meet: Val Warner's son and track star Max meets Olympic gold medalist uncle
This Black History Month, we're honoring the history and heritage of those making a difference.
Our Chicago: Neighborhood Walk with Val Warner in Douglas
ABC7's Val Warner walks through the Douglas neighborhood on the Near South Side of Chicago with urban historian Sherman 'Dilla' Thomas.
Tips for attacking credit card debt
The total credit card debt for all Americans is now more than $1 trillion and more than half of all Americans carry their credit card balance from month to month.
Our Chicago: Neighborhood Walk with Val Warner in Beverly
Val starts her neighborhood tours with a visit to Chicago's Beverly neighborhood on the Southwest Sid
Roz on the Road: Wisconsin visit to Kohler and Sheboygan
This week Roz takes us on the road to Wisconsin to visit Kohler and Sheboygan.
Hyde Park Summer Fest back in action this weekend on Chicago's South Side
We're gearing up for another big party this weekend!
South Side couple carrying love to new heights
It's a modern day love story of a woman meeting a man online.