MOVERS AND SHAKERS: Kristine Johnson, Co-Anchor of CBS 2 News
Kristine Johnson joined WCBS-TV in 2006. She serves as co-anchor of CBS 2 News at 5 and 11PM weekdays along with Chris Wragge. Kristine has covered various breaking news events, interviewed major newsmakers and hosted live special programming for the tri-state area. She is especially proud of the 5 and 11PM being honored with two Emmy awards as best newscasts in 2008.
Before joining WCBS-TV, Johnson worked at NBC News, where she served as anchor for NBC News’ “Early Today,” alternating anchor for “Weekend Today” and daytime anchor for MSNBC. While at NBC, Johnson interviewed various newsmakers and covered breaking news events around the world.
Previously, Johnson served as weeknight news anchor and field reporter for WPRI/WNAC-TV in Providence, RI where she was responsible for field anchoring from live breaking news events in the Providence market. While there, Johnson also received two Emmy nominations for her part in producing the series “Brendan’s Story” and “Newsmakers.”
Johnson is a graduate of the University of Nebraska and currently resides in New Jersey with her husband and two children. We are so pleased to present her as our latest Mover and Shaker!
Peachy Deegan interviewed Kristine Johnson for Whom You Know.
Peachy Deegan: When did you realize you wanted to be on tv?
Kristine Johnson: Freshman year of college – studying in my dorm room (with the TV on) Dan Rather breaks into programming announcing “Operation Desert Shield” is now “Operation Desert Storm”. The beginning of the Gulf War.
What do you enjoy reporting on the most?
I’m a Gemini…so I love covering various topics. But no matter what the subject matter is, it must make an impact. I want it to be something the viewer still thinks about after I sign off at the end of the broadcast.
Did you work in television in London? What was that like?
I was still in high school when I lived in England….so I didn’t work in television. But I was interviewed for a report on the Today Show while I was there. Bryant Gumbel and Jane Pauley were hosting back then. NBC broadcast a Thanksgiving special live from the military base my family was stationed at.
What does it take to win an Emmy?
Paying an entry fee and a whole lot of luck! (Kidding!) It really is at the discretion of the Emmy judges – but telling a damn good story with compelling video and interviews will certainly make you a front-runner!
What is the funniest thing that has happened to you on air?
Funniest = most embarrassing. What do you get when you slur these two words together: Quinn and here? Yup…it’s on You Tube.
What or who has had the most influence on your pursuit of excellence?
A terrible adolescence. Being made fun of and never “quite” fitting in can really do a number on your self esteem. But in the end – it’s what fuels that fire in my belly to prove those naysayers wrong!
What are you proudest of and why?
My two children. Because I didn’t realize it was possible to love that much – and when I look at them I can’t believe they’re mine.
What is your favorite place to be in Manhattan?
Central Park.
What is your favorite shop in Manhattan?
That’s a tough one, but I do spend a lot of time in Sephora for obvious reasons.
What is your favorite drink?
Water
What is your favorite restaurant in Manhattan?
I make it a point to always try some place new.
What is your favorite Manhattan book?
Real Estate guides. Its fun to dream…………
What has been your best Manhattan athletic experience?
Me athletic? I wish!! But I do help host a few charity runs.
What is your favorite thing to do in Manhattan that you can do nowhere else?
Spotting the rich and famous hailing cabs.
What has been your best Manhattan art or music experience?
Every Broadway musical I’ve seen, Bruce Springsteen at the Garden and Paul McCartney rockin’ it out with his band on top of the Ed Sullivan theatre marquee.
What do you think is most underrated and overrated here?
Underrated: The people. They’re a little rough around the edges, but they sure can pull through for you in a pinch!
Overrated: That “market price” lobster salad I once ordered. Cost me $120 plus tip!
Other than Movers and Shakers of course, what is your favorite Whom You Know column and what do you like about it?
Spa Peachy….always looking for a great place to get pampered. Wish I could do it more often!
Tasty Tidbits….always looking for a new place to please the palate!
What else should Whom You Know readers know about you?
I’m a homebody that prefers to wear sweatpants over suits.
How would you like to be contacted by Whom You Know readers?
