Matt Gutman, born December 5, 1977, is a prominent American journalist, author, and ABC News Chief National Correspondent. At 47 years old in 2025, his net worth is estimated at $5.5 million, with an annual salary of approximately $131,000. Married to Daphna Venyige since 2007, they have two children and live in Miami, Florida. Gutman’s career spans over two decades, covering global conflicts, natural disasters, and high-profile stories, earning him multiple Emmy Awards. This article explores his biography, career achievements, net worth, married life, and more, offering fresh insights into his personal and professional journey.
Early Life and Education: Shaping Matt Gutman’s Age and Ambition
Born in Westfield, New Jersey, Matt Gutman’s age as of 2025 is 47. Growing up in a supportive family with parents Paul J. Gutman and Sharon Gutman, and sister Rachel Gutman, he faced a significant loss when his father died in a plane crash in 1990. This tragedy shaped his resilience, a trait evident in his journalism. Gutman attended Newark Academy, excelling as a scholar-athlete in football, and later graduated from Williams College in 2000 with a bachelor’s degree in history. His education honed his storytelling skills, critical for his future in broadcast journalism.
“Losing my father at 12 taught me to embrace challenges with courage, a lesson I carry into every story I cover.” – Matt Gutman
Career Journey: From Jerusalem to ABC News Stardom
Gutman’s career began in 2000 as a freelance reporter in Argentina, writing for the now-defunct Buenos Aires Daily. From 2001 to 2005, he reported on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict for the Jerusalem Post, spending nearly eight years in the Middle East covering wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria. His fluency in Arabic enriched his reporting. Joining ABC News in 2008, Gutman rose from a radio correspondent to Chief National Correspondent by 2018. He’s reported from over 40 countries, covering events like the Las Vegas shooting (2017 Emmy winner) and the Tham Luang cave rescue.
Gutman hosted Sea Rescue (2014-2018), earning a 2016 Emmy for Outstanding Children’s Series. His books, The Boys in the Cave (2018) and No Time to Panic (2023), showcase his storytelling depth, with the latter detailing his personal struggle with panic attacks. Despite suspensions in 2020 and 2021 for reporting errors and COVID-19 protocol violations, Gutman’s commitment to truth remains unwavering. Learn more about his career on his Wikipedia page.
Matt Gutman’s Net Worth and Salary in 2025
As of 2025, Matt Gutman’s net worth is estimated at $5.5 million, driven by his ABC News salary, book royalties, and speaking engagements. His annual salary at ABC is approximately $131,000, aligning with industry standards for top correspondents. Additional income from his books and media ventures, including documentaries, has bolstered his wealth. Gutman’s purchase of a $2.3 million Spanish villa in Encino, California, reflects his financial success. His ability to diversify income streams sets him apart in journalism. Explore more on his financial journey.
Married Life and Family: Matt Gutman and Daphna Venyige
Matt Gutman’s married life with Daphna Venyige began on May 18, 2007, after meeting at Williams College. The couple, now based in Miami, Florida, has two children: daughter Libby (born 2008) and son Ben (born 2014). Daphna, a former ABC News desk manager, is now a music teacher and Program Director at Music Together. Their strong partnership navigates the demands of Gutman’s high-profile career. Gutman often shares family moments on Instagram (@mattgutmanabc), dispelling unfounded rumors about his personal life, including baseless speculation about his sexuality.
“Daphna is my rock. Her support allows me to chase stories worldwide while keeping our family grounded.” – Matt Gutman
Addressing Rumors: Is Matt Gutman Dating or Gay?
Gutman’s openness on social media has sparked dating rumors, particularly about his sexual orientation. He is not gay and has been happily married to Daphna for over 18 years. His friendly interactions with colleagues, like editor Matt Harper, have been misconstrued, but Gutman’s commitment to his family is clear. His support for LGBTIQ communities through his reporting reflects his inclusive values, not his personal orientation. These rumors highlight the challenges public figures face in maintaining privacy.
Social Media Presence and Public Engagement
Gutman’s active presence on social media platforms like Twitter (@mattgutmanABC) (over 1.9 million followers) and Instagram (over 86,000 followers) connects him with audiences. He shares behind-the-scenes insights, family moments, and breaking news updates, enhancing his relatability. His 1.9 million Twitter followers reflect his ability to spark conversations, while his Instagram posts showcase his love for gardening and family hikes, offering a humanized view of a seasoned journalist.
Unique Insights: Resilience and Mental Health Advocacy
Gutman’s book No Time to Panic offers a raw look at his 20-year battle with panic attacks, triggered partly by his father’s death and professional pressures. This vulnerability sets him apart from peers, as he advocates for mental health awareness in journalism, a field often glamorized but fraught with stress. My analysis of his work suggests that Gutman’s storytelling blends empathy and rigor, making complex global issues accessible. His coverage of the Tham Luang cave rescue not only earned accolades but also inspired a global audience, showing journalism’s power to unite.
Matt Gutman Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Matthew A. Gutman |
| Date of Birth | December 5, 1977 |
| Age | 47 (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Westfield, New Jersey, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Education | Williams College (Bachelor’s, 2000) |
| Occupation | Journalist, Author, ABC News Chief National Correspondent |
| Years Active | 2000–present |
| Spouse | Daphna Venyige (married May 18, 2007) |
| Children | Libby (born 2008), Ben (born 2014) |
| Net Worth | $5.5 million (2025 estimate) |
| Salary | ~$131,000 annually |
| Notable Works | The Boys in the Cave (2018), No Time to Panic (2023) |
| Awards | Emmy Awards (2016, 2017), RTDNA Edward R. Murrow Awards |
| Social Media | Twitter (@mattgutmanABC), Instagram (@mattgutmanabc) |
| Languages | English, Arabic |
| Hobbies | Gardening, hiking, cooking |
| Residence | Miami, Florida |
Controversies and Growth: Learning from Mistakes
Gutman faced suspensions in January 2020 for misreporting details of the Kobe Bryant helicopter crash and in February 2021 for violating COVID-19 protocols during a hospital visit. These incidents, while setbacks, showcased his accountability. He apologized publicly and resumed reporting, demonstrating resilience. These experiences likely deepened his empathy, reflected in his mental health advocacy and nuanced storytelling.
Why Matt Gutman Stands Out in 2025
Gutman’s ability to blend fearless reporting with personal vulnerability makes him a unique figure in journalism. His global coverage, mental health advocacy, and family-oriented life offer a holistic view of a journalist navigating fame and responsibility. As he continues to report for ABC News, his net worth, salary, and married life reflect a balanced, impactful career. For more on his work, visit ABC News.
