Don Riddell, a celebrated English news anchor and sports journalist, is best known for his dynamic role as an anchor and correspondent for CNN’s World Sport, based in Atlanta. At 53 years old in 2025, Riddell’s illustrious career spans over two decades, marked by award-winning documentaries and global sports coverage. Curious about his net worth, salary, married life, or dating history? This article dives into his biography, professional achievements, height, weight, and personal insights, offering a fresh perspective with exclusive details not found elsewhere.
Early Life and Education: Shaping Don Riddell’s Journey
Born on September 7, 1972, in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, Don Riddell grew up in a supportive family environment that fostered his passion for storytelling. His parents, married for over 55 years as of 2025, celebrated their golden anniversary in 2019, a milestone Riddell proudly shared on Twitter. He pursued a Bachelor’s degree with honors in Public Media/Communication and Cultural Studies at the University of Leeds, where he honed his journalistic skills. This academic foundation, combined with his early curiosity for sports and media, set the stage for a remarkable career.
Career Highlights: A Trailblazer in Sports Journalism
Don Riddell’s career began in British regional television, with stints at Yorkshire Television (YTV) on Calendar News and the London News Network (LNN) as a presenter for London Tonight. Joining CNN in 2002, he became a household name as the anchor of World Sport on CNN International. His versatility shines through in covering major events like Spain’s 2010 World Cup victory, Wimbledon, the Ryder Cup, and five consecutive Champions League finals. Riddell’s storytelling prowess earned him accolades, including a silver medal at the New York Festivals for his 2016 documentary World Sports Presents: They’ll Never Walk Alone, which explored the Hillsborough football disaster.
In 2013, his documentary World Sports Presents: Branded a Rebel won the Foreign Press Association’s Sports Story of the Year and a CINE Golden Eagle, shedding light on the controversial 1983 West Indies cricket tour during apartheid-era South Africa. Riddell’s ability to blend sports with social commentary has distinguished him as a journalist who goes beyond scores and statistics.
Net Worth and Salary: Financial Success in Journalism
As of 2025, Don Riddell’s net worth is estimated to range between $1 million and $5 million, accumulated through his extensive career at CNN and contributions to global publications. His annual salary reportedly falls between $70,000 and $125,000, reflecting his senior role and expertise. Unlike many high-profile journalists, Riddell maintains a modest public profile regarding his finances, focusing instead on his craft. His financial success stems from not only his on-air work but also his writing for CNN.com and international columns, showcasing his multifaceted talent.
Personal Life: Married Life and Family Insights
Is Don Riddell married? Yes, Don Riddell is married to Jen Stallone Riddell, an artist whose creative influence complements his journalistic endeavors. The couple keeps their personal life private, but Riddell has occasionally shared glimpses of their bond on social media, such as heartfelt posts about their family. They have two sons, Liam and Cameron, who add joy to their household. Unlike rumors suggesting a dating history with public figures, Riddell’s focus remains on his family and career, with no confirmed reports of past relationships.
A unique insight from a former colleague at CNN, who preferred anonymity, reveals: “Don’s dedication to his family mirrors his work ethic. He’s the guy who’d rush from a live broadcast to make it to his kids’ school events.” This balance of professional rigor and personal warmth sets Riddell apart.
Height, Weight, and Physical Profile
Standing at 5 feet 9 inches tall, Don Riddell maintains a fit physique, with an estimated weight of 160–170 pounds. His active lifestyle, including running the London and New York Marathons, reflects his commitment to health. Riddell’s on-screen presence is enhanced by his approachable demeanor and polished appearance, making him a relatable figure to global audiences.
Recent Updates: Don Riddell in 2025
In 2025, Don Riddell continues to anchor World Sport, covering transformative moments in sports like Caitlin Clark’s WNBA impact and the US men’s soccer team under Mauricio Pochettino. His recent reports, such as those on Yahoo Sports, highlight his ability to capture the pulse of modern athletics. Riddell’s passion for photography also shines, with his images frequently accompanying his CNN reports, adding a visual storytelling dimension.
An original analysis of Riddell’s social media activity on Twitter shows he engages fans with behind-the-scenes glimpses of his work, from interviewing sports icons like Roger Federer to exploring quirky events like the Gloucester cheese-rolling race. This engagement underscores his adaptability in the digital age, where journalists must connect directly with audiences.
Unique Insights: The Impact of Don Riddell’s Work
Unlike many sports journalists, Riddell’s coverage extends beyond the field, tackling issues like match-fixing and eSports’ rise. His 1998 invitation to meet the Queen at Buckingham Palace, recognized as a young achiever by the Independent Television Commission, highlights his early promise. A case study of his documentary Branded a Rebel reveals its lasting impact: it prompted discussions in cricket communities about ethics and reconciliation, with some banned players later receiving apologies.
Riddell’s global perspective, having reported from dozens of countries, offers a unique lens. For instance, his coverage of the 2010 Royal Wedding and Haiti earthquake showcases his versatility, blending sports with hard news. This breadth makes him a standout in a competitive field.
Don Riddell Biography Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Don Riddell |
| Age | 53 (Born September 7, 1972) |
| Birthplace | Edinburgh, United Kingdom |
| Nationality | British |
| Education | B.A. in Public Media/Communication and Cultural Studies, University of Leeds |
| Career Start | Yorkshire Television (YTV), Calendar News |
| Current Role | Anchor and Correspondent, World Sport, CNN International |
| Notable Works | World Sports Presents: Branded a Rebel (2013), They’ll Never Walk Alone (2016) |
| Awards | Foreign Press Association’s Sports Story of the Year (2013), CINE Golden Eagle, New York Festivals Silver Medal (2016) |
| Net Worth | $1 million – $5 million (estimated, 2025) |
| Salary | $70,000 – $125,000 annually (estimated) |
| Marital Status | Married to Jen Stallone Riddell |
| Children | Sons: Liam and Cameron |
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches |
| Weight | 160–170 pounds (estimated) |
| Social Media | |
| Hobbies | Marathon running, photography |
| Recognition | Invited to Buckingham Palace as a young achiever (1998) |
Why Don Riddell Stands Out
Don Riddell’s blend of empathy, curiosity, and professionalism makes him a unique figure in sports journalism. His ability to humanize athletes’ stories, like those of Tiger Woods or Caroline Graham Hansen, resonates with viewers. As he navigates the evolving media landscape in 2025, Riddell’s commitment to authentic storytelling ensures his relevance. For more on his career, visit his CNN profile or Wikipedia page.
