Mike Jackson was an award-winning American broadcast journalist, television news anchor, consumer advocate, and community leader best known for his nearly three-decade career at NBC4 (WCMH-TV) in Columbus, Ohio. During more than 40 years in broadcasting, Jackson became one of Central Ohio’s most trusted television personalities, recognized for his calm delivery, investigative reporting, and unwavering commitment to helping viewers through his popular consumer segment, “Better Call Jackson.”
Joining NBC4 in 1994, Jackson anchored several of the station’s flagship newscasts, including the morning, evening, and late-night broadcasts. He covered major local and national events, interviewed countless newsmakers, and earned numerous journalism honors for his work. Beyond the newsroom, he was admired for his mentorship of young journalists and his active involvement in charitable organizations throughout Central Ohio.
Even after facing serious health challenges, including a stroke in 2019 and later laryngeal cancer, Jackson continued to inspire viewers with his determination, resilience, and positive outlook. Following his passing in October 2023, tributes poured in from colleagues, viewers, and community leaders, reflecting the profound impact he had on journalism and the Columbus community.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Mike Jackson |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Journalist, News Anchor, Consumer Reporter |
| Employer | NBC4 (WCMH-TV), Columbus |
| Years at NBC4 | 1994–2023 |
| Education | West Virginia State College (now West Virginia State University) |
| Degree | Associate Degree in Mass Communication |
| Wife | Sally Ward Jackson |
| Children | Four |
| Career | More than 40 years in broadcasting |
Early Life and Family
Mike Jackson was born and raised in Charleston, West Virginia, where he developed an interest in broadcasting at an early age. Before pursuing journalism, he worked summer jobs digging sewer lines and learning about municipal wastewater systems, an experience he later credited with motivating him to pursue higher education and a professional career.
One area where online sources differ is Jackson’s family background. Some biography websites identify his parents as Boyd and Elizabeth Pierce Jackson, while his official obituary states that he was born to Geraldine Ward and Melvin D. Jackson and was adopted as an infant by his uncle Edgar Jackson and aunt Frances Jackson, who raised him in Charleston. Because the obituary comes directly from his family, it is generally considered the more authoritative source.
Growing up in West Virginia shaped Jackson’s strong work ethic and community-centered values, qualities that remained evident throughout his broadcasting career.
Education
Mike Jackson attended Charleston Catholic High School before enrolling at West Virginia State College (now West Virginia State University), where he earned an associate degree in mass communication. His education provided the technical and journalistic foundation for a broadcasting career that would span more than four decades.
Mike Jackson Career
Mike Jackson’s broadcasting career began in Charleston, West Virginia, at WCHS-AM radio, where he learned the fundamentals of news reporting and on-air broadcasting. He later became an operations manager and announcer for WBES-FM, expanding his experience in radio before transitioning to television.
His first television position was with WOAY-TV in Oak Hill, West Virginia, where he anchored the late-evening news and eventually became News Director. Jackson also worked as a sports reporter at WCHS-TV before accepting an opportunity with an ABC affiliate in Columbus and later serving as an evening anchor at NewsChannel 8 in Washington, D.C.
Joining NBC4 Columbus
In 1994, Mike Jackson returned to Columbus to join NBC4 (WCMH-TV), beginning what would become the defining chapter of his career. Over the years, he anchored numerous newscasts, including the station’s 5 p.m., 6 p.m., and 11 p.m. broadcasts, and later the morning news. His professionalism and approachable style quickly made him one of Central Ohio’s most trusted news anchors.
One of Jackson’s most popular contributions was “Better Call Jackson,” a consumer advocacy segment in which he investigated fraud, resolved consumer complaints, and helped viewers navigate disputes with businesses and government agencies. The feature became a hallmark of his career and demonstrated his commitment to serving the public beyond traditional news reporting.
Awards and Recognition
Mike Jackson received numerous honors throughout his distinguished career, including:
- A National Association of Black Journalists first-place reporting award (1993).
- Multiple Emmy Award nominations.
- Society of Professional Journalists reporting awards.
- Lifetime Achievement Award from the Tribute to African American Committee.
- Greater Columbus Basketball Legends Association Award (2019).
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Humanitarian Award from the Columbus Education Association (2023).
His commitment to mentoring young journalists and serving the community earned him widespread admiration throughout the broadcasting industry.
Mike Jackson Health Journey
Mike Jackson’s resilience became especially evident during the final years of his life. In January 2019, he suffered a major stroke that temporarily removed him from the anchor desk. Through months of rehabilitation and determination, he worked toward recovery while remaining connected with viewers who supported him throughout the process.
In late 2022, Jackson publicly revealed that he had been diagnosed with laryngeal cancer. His treatment included surgery that removed his larynx, followed by radiation therapy. Despite losing his natural speaking voice, he continued to inspire colleagues and viewers through his optimism and courage.
His health journey highlighted the perseverance that had defined his entire career and deepened the respect many people already had for him.
Mike Jackson Age
Mike Jackson was born on November 20, 1956, in Hot Springs, Virginia, and was raised in Charleston, West Virginia after being adopted by his uncle Edgar Jackson and aunt Frances Jackson. He passed away on October 27, 2023, at the age of 66, following a courageous battle with laryngeal cancer. His official obituary, published by his family, confirmed both his birth date and the details of his early life.
Mike Jackson Wife
Mike Jackson was married to Dawn M. Jackson, the love of his life, for 45 years. The couple married while living in Charleston, West Virginia, long before Mike became one of Columbus’ most recognizable television journalists.
It is worth noting that some older online biography websites incorrectly identify his spouse as “Sally Ward.” However, Mike Jackson’s official family obituary, the most authoritative source confirms that his wife was Dawn M. Jackson, with whom he shared more than four decades of marriage.
Friends and colleagues frequently described their marriage as one built on unwavering support, particularly during Mike’s recovery from his stroke and throughout his battle with cancer.
Mike Jackson Children and Family
Mike Jackson was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.
He and Dawn Jackson were the proud parents of two daughters:
- Nicole Jackson Tubbs
- Courtney Jackson Earliwine
He was also a loving grandfather to nine grandchildren, who were among the greatest joys of his life.
According to his family’s obituary, Jackson also remained close to his extended family, particularly his cousin Norman E. “Eddie” Jackson, whom he considered a brother.
Although many viewers knew Mike as a trusted news anchor, those closest to him often described him first as a dedicated family man who treasured time with his wife, daughters, and grandchildren.
Mike Jackson Height
Mike Jackson’s exact height was never officially published by NBC4.
She stands at approximately 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters). Since this measurement was never publicly confirmed by Jackson or NBC4, it should be regarded as an estimate.
Mike Jackson Salary
NBC4 never publicly disclosed Mike Jackson’s compensation.
Based on industry standards for veteran anchors in a major television market such as Columbus, third-party biography websites have estimated that his annual salary ranged between $75,000 and $150,000, depending on contract terms and responsibilities.
Some older websites report narrower ranges, but none of these figures have been verified by Mike Jackson or NBC4.
Mike Jackson Net Worth
Jackson has an estimated net worth of between $1 million and $5 million. These estimates are based on:
- His long television career.
- Anchor and consumer reporter salaries.
- Speaking engagements.
- Professional appearances.
- Other broadcasting-related income.
Community Involvement
Mike Jackson believed journalism should extend beyond reporting the news.
Throughout his career, he actively supported numerous organizations throughout Central Ohio, including:
- King Arts Complex
- Columbus Association of Black Journalists
- American Heart Association
- African American Wellness Walk
- Autism Speaks
- National Multiple Sclerosis Society
He also mentored aspiring journalists, helping many young broadcasters launch successful careers in television news. His willingness to encourage and guide the next generation became one of his most enduring contributions outside the newsroom.
Legacy of “Better Call Jackson”
Among Mike Jackson’s most memorable accomplishments was the creation of “Better Call Jackson,” NBC4’s consumer advocacy segment.
The series investigated scams, exposed fraud, and helped viewers resolve disputes with businesses and service providers. Over the years, countless Central Ohio residents benefited from Jackson’s persistence in holding organizations accountable.
The segment became synonymous with his name and reinforced his reputation as a journalist who genuinely cared about helping people.
Interesting Facts About Mike Jackson
- He began his broadcasting career at WCHS-AM radio in Charleston, West Virginia.
- Before journalism, he worked digging sewer lines during high school summers.
- He joined NBC4 Columbus in 1994 and remained with the station for nearly 30 years.
- He created NBC4’s well-known consumer advocacy feature “Better Call Jackson.”
- He received a National Association of Black Journalists first-place reporting award in 1993.
- He was nominated for four Emmy Awards during his career.
- He received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Tribute to African American Committee.
- He survived a major stroke in 2019 before later battling laryngeal cancer.
- He passed away on October 27, 2023, leaving a lasting legacy in Central Ohio journalism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Mike Jackson?
Mike Jackson was an award-winning journalist, news anchor, and consumer reporter who worked at NBC4 (WCMH-TV) in Columbus, Ohio, from 1994 until 2023. He was especially known for anchoring evening newscasts and hosting the consumer advocacy segment “Better Call Jackson.”
How old was Mike Jackson?
Mike Jackson was born on November 20, 1956, and died on October 27, 2023, at the age of 66.
Who was Mike Jackson’s wife?
Mike Jackson was married to Dawn M. Jackson for 45 years. His official obituary confirms her identity.
Did Mike Jackson have children?
Yes. Mike Jackson had two daughters, Nicole Jackson Tubbs and Courtney Jackson Earliwine, as well as nine grandchildren.
What happened to Mike Jackson?
After suffering a major stroke in 2019, Mike Jackson later developed laryngeal cancer. He underwent extensive treatment but passed away on October 27, 2023.
What was Mike Jackson’s net worth?
His estimated net worth was between $1 million and $5 million, although these figures were never officially confirmed.
What was Mike Jackson’s salary?
His exact NBC4 salary was never publicly released. Industry estimates place his annual earnings in the $75,000 to $150,000 range during his later career, though no official figure was disclosed.
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