Val Warner
The popular Emmy Award-Winning host also co-hosts Windy City Weekend, a spin-off of Windy City LIVE, the talk and entertainment show that distinguished itself by running for a decade on ABC 7.
Each Friday on Windy City Weekend Val continues to bring fun to daytime television, covering everything Chicago from what's happening on the weekends to what's on people's minds in her signature "Host Chat" segment with Ryan Chiaverini.
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, David Muir and Michelle Obama.
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 is married with two children.
Val's Stories
2026 Great Chicago Blood Drive wraps up, hundreds of donations to save lives
The 2026 Great Chicago Blood Drive has wrapped up. ABC7 Chicago teamed up with the American Red Cross to provide six convenient donation locations.
1st-ever Chicago 'Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest' event kicks off downtown
The stage was set Wednesday evening in Chicago for this year's "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest" event downtown, featuring Chance the Rapper.
Chance the Rapper talks hosting historic Chicago New Year's Eve event
Chance the Rapper spoke with Val Warner about hosting Chicago's historic New Year's Eve event later this week.
Friday Flyover: Lindblom Math and Science Academy
This week, ABC7 Chicago is featuring Lindblom Math and Science Academy on Friday Flyover.
Friday Flyover: Providence Catholic High School
This week, ABC7 Chicago is featuring Providence Catholic High School on Friday Flyover.
Friday Flyover: Buffalo Grove High School
This week, ABC7 Chicago is featuring Buffalo Grove High School on Friday Flyover.
Friday Flyover: Maine East High School
This week, ABC7 Chicago is featuring Maine East High School on Friday Flyover.
Friday Flyover: Willowbrook High School
This week, ABC7 Chicago is featuring Willowbrook High School on Friday Flyover.
Former Mayor Lori Lightfoot showcases her Logan Square in 'Our Chicago: Neighborhood Walk'
In a city of distinctive neighborhoods, Logan Square stands out for its historic boulevards, vibrant culture and a blend of old-world architecture and modern-day energy.
Journalist Cody LaGrow shows Val Warner Lakeview on latest Chicago 'Neighborhood Walk'
Val Warner toured Lakeview on her latest Chicago "Neighborhood Walk."