Melinda Meza, a celebrated journalist, has made a significant mark as a news reporter and San Joaquin County Bureau Chief at KCRA-TV in Sacramento, California. As of 2025, curiosity about Melinda Meza’s age, net worth, salary, married life, and dating rumors continues to captivate audiences. Born on April 11, 1975, she is 50 years old, bringing decades of experience to her dynamic career. With a net worth estimated at $1.5 million and a robust journalism portfolio, Meza’s story is one of resilience and professionalism. This article delves into her life, career, and the rumors surrounding her personal life, offering fresh insights and updates.
Early Life and Education: Shaping Melinda Meza’s Age and Ambition
Born in Stockton, California, Melinda Meza’s age in 2025 places her at 50, with a vibrant career rooted in her early passion for storytelling. Growing up in a large family with seven siblings, Meza was influenced by her parents, Tom and Helen Meza, who instilled values of honesty and perseverance. Her childhood in a tight-knit Mexican-American community, marked by a traditional Quinceañera at 15, shaped her cultural identity. Meza graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and further honed her skills at the Poynter Institute, a prestigious journalism school. Her education laid the foundation for a career spanning over 20 years, blending cultural pride with professional excellence.
Melinda Meza’s Career: A Journey in Journalism and Salary Insights
Melinda Meza’s career is a testament to her versatility, having served as a reporter, anchor, producer, and photographer. Starting at KGTV in San Diego as a producer, she transitioned to on-air roles in Chico and Santa Rosa, where she launched a morning show and earned multiple Emmy Awards. Since joining KCRA-TV in 2012, Meza has covered high-profile stories like the Scott Peterson murder trial and California wildfires, showcasing her ability to handle breaking news under tight deadlines. As San Joaquin County Bureau Chief, she produces compelling human-interest stories, amplifying underrepresented voices.
While exact figures for Melinda Meza’s salary remain undisclosed, industry estimates suggest senior reporters at major affiliates like KCRA earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience and market size. Meza’s 20+ years of experience and leadership role likely place her at the higher end of this spectrum. Her LinkedIn profile highlights her expertise in live reporting and multimedia storytelling, skills that enhance her earning potential in the competitive Sacramento market.
Net Worth: Estimating Melinda Meza’s Financial Success
Melinda Meza’s net worth is estimated at $1.5 million in 2025, accumulated through her long-standing journalism career and entrepreneurial ventures. Beyond her KCRA role, Meza founded a company producing videos for small businesses and medical professionals, diversifying her income streams. Her Emmy-winning work and consistent presence in a top media market contribute significantly to her wealth. Unlike some peers, Meza maintains a low-key lifestyle, focusing on family and community rather than flashy expenditures, which aligns with her grounded persona.
Married Life: Melinda Meza and Mike de Lambert
Melinda Meza’s married life with Mike de Lambert, whom she wed in 2004, is a cornerstone of her personal story. The couple shares a son, Thomas Lambert, and Meza is a stepmother to Mike’s sons, James and Austin. Their 21-year marriage reflects a strong partnership, with Mike supporting Meza’s demanding career. Meza’s decision to keep her maiden name underscores her professional identity, though she once considered adding de Lambert to mark their milestone anniversaries. Living in San Joaquin County, the family values privacy, focusing on raising their children with the same principles Meza learned from her parents.
In a 2014 KCRA feature, Meza shared, “My husband Mike de Lambert has been a wonderful, supportive life partner.” This quote reflects the strength of their bond, which has weathered public scrutiny, including a notable 2020 incident discussed below.
Dating Rumors and the 2020 Controversy
Dating rumors surrounding Melinda Meza are largely unfounded, given her long-standing marriage. However, in April 2020, Meza inadvertently sparked headlines during a KCRA broadcast from her home bathroom. While demonstrating DIY haircut techniques during the COVID-19 lockdown, a mirror reflection accidentally revealed her husband, Mike, in the shower. The clip went viral, prompting mixed reactions on social media, from humor to sympathy. Some speculated about her personal life, but Meza and KCRA clarified that the figure was indeed her husband, dispelling any salacious rumors.
Contrary to some reports, Meza was not fired over the incident. Although her contract with KCRA ended in July 2020, industry insiders suggest this was part of a broader restructuring rather than a direct consequence of the gaffe. Meza’s professionalism and reputation as a Multi-Emmy Award winner helped her rebound, continuing freelance work and multimedia projects. This incident highlights the challenges journalists faced during remote broadcasting, a unique perspective on the pressures of adapting to unprecedented circumstances.
Unique Insights: Meza’s Impact and Community Engagement
Meza’s commitment to giving a voice to the voiceless sets her apart. Her coverage of local issues, such as the COVID-19 impact on San Joaquin County families, resonates deeply. For instance, her 2020 report on a Turlock man’s death from COVID-19 complications humanized the pandemic’s toll, earning praise for its empathy. Meza’s membership in the California Chicano News Media Association reflects her dedication to diversity in journalism, a perspective often underrepresented in mainstream media.
Anecdotally, colleagues describe Meza as a team player with a knack for connecting with communities. Her LinkedIn testimonials highlight her work ethic: “Melinda is thorough in everything she does… a dependable employee in the newsroom.” This reputation underscores her lasting influence, even post-KCRA.
Melinda Meza Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Melinda Meza |
| Date of Birth | April 11, 1975 |
| Age | 50 (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Stockton, California, USA |
| Education | Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, San Diego State University; Poynter Institute |
| Profession | News Reporter, Anchor, San Joaquin County Bureau Chief |
| Employer | KCRA-TV (2012–2020), Freelance Multimedia Reporter |
| Salary (Estimated) | $80,000–$150,000 annually |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $1.5 million |
| Marital Status | Married to Mike de Lambert (since 2004) |
| Children | Son: Thomas Lambert; Stepsons: James and Austin Lambert |
| Parents | Tom Meza (deceased), Helen Meza (deceased) |
| Siblings | Seven siblings (names undisclosed) |
| Awards | Multiple Emmy Awards for Journalism |
| Associations | California Chicano News Media Association |
| Hobbies | Basketball, certified massage therapy, aerobics (former instructor) |
Current Endeavors and Future Prospects
As of 2025, Melinda Meza continues to freelance, producing content for digital platforms and mentoring young journalists. Her video production company thrives, serving local businesses in Stockton and Modesto. Meza’s resilience in navigating the 2020 controversy and her focus on community-driven storytelling position her as a role model. Fans can follow her journey on social media, including LinkedIn (linkedin.com/in/melinda-meza) and Instagram (@melindamezatv), though she maintains a low profile.
For more on her career, visit KCRA’s News Team page or explore her Wikipedia page for updates. Meza’s story is one of grit, talent, and a commitment to truth, making her a standout figure in journalism.
