Troy Hayden 12 News Phoenix Bio: Age, Wife, Daughters, FOX 10

Troy Hayden Biography: Journalist and Anchor at 12News (KPNX-TV) Phoenix

Troy Hayden is a veteran American journalist and Emmy Award-winning television news anchor, widely recognized for his decades of service in Phoenix, Arizona.

With more than 30 years of broadcasting experience, he currently co-anchors the 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. weekday newscasts at 12News (KPNX-TV, NBC affiliate).

Hayden joined 12News in August 2024, following an accomplished career at FOX 10 Phoenix (KSAZ-TV), where he became one of the most familiar and respected news figures in the Valley.

Early Life and Education

Troy Hayden was born in the United States and grew up in the northern U.S., where he developed a strong interest in storytelling and journalism from a young age.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in journalism from California State University, Sacramento (Sacramento State University) in 1989. Before moving into television news, Hayden gained early newsroom experience as a sports writer for the Sacramento Bee.

Career Path

Early Career

Hayden began his broadcasting career in the late 1980s, holding reporting and anchoring positions in Sacramento, Eureka (California), and Reno (Nevada).

FOX 10 Phoenix (1994–2024)

In 1994, Hayden moved to Phoenix to join FOX 10 (KSAZ-TV), where he would spend three decades shaping his legacy. He anchored the 10 p.m. newscast for nearly 20 years before transitioning to the morning newscast in 2016.

During his tenure, Hayden gained national recognition for his coverage of the Jodi Arias murder trial, including an exclusive post-verdict interview with Arias, which aired internationally.

12News Phoenix (2024–Present)

In August 2024, Hayden brought his experience to 12News (KPNX-TV) as co-anchor of the weekday evening broadcasts alongside Allison Rodriguez and Emily Pritchard. His reporting continues to highlight hard-hitting investigations and immersive storytelling, including:

• Embedding with Phoenix firefighters in 1,100-degree blazes.

• Diving with search-and-rescue teams, including body recovery operations with the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Dive Team.

• Exclusive election-night access to Governor Doug Ducey’s “war room” (2018).

• Military embeds: piloting an F-16 fighter jet, spending three days on the USS Ronald Reagan, and diving 650 feet in the USS Ohio nuclear submarine.

• Witnessing four executions inside Arizona’s “Death House.”

• Investigating the deepest drug tunnel discovered by U.S. Border Patrol.

• Covering high-profile stories such as the Lori Vallow Daybell trial and prison healthcare investigations.

Hayden has also anchored coverage of national and international events, including the Democratic National Convention, space shuttle launches, the World Series, and four Super Bowls.

Awards and Recognition

Troy Hayden has received 11 Emmy Awards, including five consecutive wins for Best Anchor. His additional honors include:

• Anchor of the Year – Associated Press.

• Best 10 p.m. Anchor – Phoenix Magazine.

• Best Live Reporter – Phoenix New Times.

• Media Excellence Award – Phoenix Fire Department.

Volunteer Work and Advocacy

Beyond journalism, Hayden dedicates his time to conservation efforts. He has traveled to Africa, Asia, and Central America with Save Giraffes Now, helping to study and protect endangered species, particularly giraffes.

Personal Life

Outside of the newsroom, Hayden is an avid outdoorsman and certified advanced scuba diver. His hobbies include hiking, camping, reading, playing guitar, and scuba diving. He often describes himself simply as a “husband, dad, hiker, scuba diver” and lives by the personal motto: “No bad days.”

Troy Hayden Age

Troy Hayden was born on December 5, 1970, which makes him about 55 years old as of 2025. His zodiac sign is Sagittarius. He is of White-American (Caucasian) descent and holds American nationality.

Troy Hayden Parents and Siblings

Troy Hayden was born in the northern United States. He developed an interest in journalism early in life, which later shaped his career path in both print and broadcast media. After completing high school (specific details not publicly available), he attended California State University, Sacramento (Sacramento State), where he earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism in 1989.

His professional journey began as a sports writer for the Sacramento Bee, before moving into television roles in Sacramento, Eureka (California), and Reno (Nevada). In 1994, Hayden relocated to Phoenix, Arizona, where he built his reputation over three decades at FOX 10 before joining 12News (KPNX-TV) in 2024.

Parents

Hayden has not publicly shared details about his parents, including their names or professions. Out of respect for his family’s privacy, he has kept this part of his personal life separate from his career.

Siblings

There is no publicly available information about whether Hayden has siblings. He has not spoken about brothers, sisters, or extended family members in media interviews or professional profiles.

Troy Hayden Wife

Hayden is married to Kristy Morcom Hayden, who serves as Director of Media Relations at Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park in Arizona. The couple wed in a private ceremony, and Hayden has shared glimpses of their life on social media.

Marriage and Relationship

The couple tied the knot in a private ceremony, believed to have taken place in late 2021 in Midtown Phoenix. Hayden announced the marriage on social media with the caption, “When you know, you know.”

Since then, he has occasionally shared glimpses of their life together on Instagram and Facebook, highlighting travel moments, outdoor activities, and behind-the-scenes snapshots from their careers.

Although they maintain a relatively private relationship, their posts reflect a strong partnership built on shared values, including community involvement and animal conservation.

Kristy Morcom Hayden’s Background

Kristy Morcom Hayden is the Director of Media Relations at Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park in Litchfield Park, Arizona.

In this role, she oversees media outreach, public relations, and community engagement, while promoting the zoo’s conservation efforts and educational programs.

Her career reflects a deep passion for wildlife preservation and animal welfare, which aligns with Troy Hayden’s own volunteer work with organizations like Save Giraffes Now.

Family Life

Hayden has two daughters, Ashley and Lexi, from his previous marriage to Stephanie Angelo, a former news anchor. While Troy and Kristy do not have children together, she plays a meaningful role in his blended family life.

The couple resides in the Phoenix area, where they enjoy an active lifestyle. Hayden is an avid outdoorsman and advanced scuba diver, often spending free time hiking, camping, or diving. Kristy shares his love for nature and animals, making conservation and outdoor activities an important part of their life together.

Troy Hayden First Wife

Troy Hayden was previously married to Stephanie Angelo, a media professional with a background in broadcasting and consulting. The couple wed in September 1997 and were together for more than two decades before separating around mid-2019. While the exact date and reasons for their divorce have not been publicly confirmed, their long marriage was marked by both professional and family milestones.

Children

Together, Troy and Stephanie have two daughters:

• Ashley, born on February 22

• Lexi, born on December 7

Hayden maintains a close relationship with his daughters and often highlights the importance of family time in his life.

Stephanie Angelo – Career and Background

• Profession: Former news anchor, producer, and consultant

• Current Roles: Works with Cox Communications and Spa Advisors, Inc.

• Public Presence: Maintains a low profile since the divorce and is no longer active in media.

Troy Hayden Daughters

Troy Hayden is a proud father of two daughters, Lexi Hayden and Ashley Hayden, from his first marriage to Stephanie Angelo. Though he keeps their lives relatively private, he often shares milestones and expresses pride in their achievements.

Lexi Hayden

• Full Name: Lexi Hayden

• Date of Birth: December 7, 1998

• Age (as of 2025): 26 years old

• Education: Earned an Engineering degree from the University of Alberta

• Career: Worked as a Project Coordinator at Tesla’s testing unit

• Public Presence: Keeps a low profile but occasionally appears in Troy’s social media posts

Lexi is recognized for her academic excellence and technical expertise. Her engineering background and experience at Tesla highlight her strong foundation in applied science and innovation.

Ashley Hayden

• Full Name: Ashley Hayden

• Date of Birth: February 2, 2002

• Age (as of 2025): 23 years old

• Education: Student at Boise State University

• Athletics: Member of the Boise State Women’s Volleyball Team

• Public Presence: Occasionally featured in sports coverage and Troy’s social media tributes

Ashley balances academics with athletics, excelling as a standout student-athlete. Her dedication to volleyball reflects discipline, teamwork, and leadership—qualities her father often highlights with pride.

Family Dynamics

Despite his public career, Troy Hayden values privacy when it comes to his daughters. He chooses instead to celebrate their accomplishments—whether Lexi’s path in engineering or Ashley’s growth in athletics. Both daughters reflect Troy’s influence, pursuing their own unique paths with focus, professionalism, and determination.

Troy Hayden Height

Troy Hayden FOX 10 News Career

Troy Hayden is a veteran journalist whose career spans over three decades, marked by award-winning anchoring, daring field reporting, and a deep connection with Arizona viewers.

Early Career (Late 1980s – Early 1990s)

Hayden began his journalism journey as a sports writer for the Sacramento Bee in California. He later transitioned into television news, taking on reporting and anchoring roles in Sacramento, Eureka, and Reno.

While exact stations are not fully documented, these early-market positions—likely with outlets such as KCRA or KOVR (Sacramento), KIEM or KAEF (Eureka), and KRNV or KOLO (Reno)—provided the foundation for his broadcasting career.

FOX 10 Phoenix (KSAZ-TV) | 1994 – June 28, 2024

In 1994, Hayden joined FOX 10 Phoenix (KSAZ-TV) as the weeknight anchor for the 10 p.m. newscast. Over the next 30 years, he became one of the most recognized faces in Arizona television.

• Anchoring Roles:

  • 1994–2016: Anchored prime-time newscasts, including the 10 p.m. show, and hosted weekend broadcasts.

  • August 2016: Transitioned to mornings, co-anchoring FOX 10 Arizona Morning (7 a.m.–10 a.m.) and the noon newscast.

• Notable Coverage & Field Reporting:

  • Delivered national coverage during the Jodi Arias trial, including an exclusive post-verdict interview with Arias that aired internationally.

  • Reported live from major events such as the Democratic National Convention, the World Series, four Super Bowls, and the launch of the space shuttle Discovery.

  • Embedded with the Phoenix Fire Department during 1,100-degree fires, scuba-dived with the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Dive Team, and explored a 100-foot-deep drug tunnel with U.S. Border Patrol.

  • Flew in an F-16 fighter jet, reported from the USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier, and covered Arizona prison executions with rare behind-the-scenes access.

• Awards & Recognition:

  • 11 Emmy Awards, including five consecutive for “Best Anchor.”

  • “Anchor of the Year” (Associated Press).

  • “Best 10 p.m. Anchor” (Phoenix Magazine).

  • “Best Live Reporter” (Phoenix New Times).

  • Media Excellence Award from the Phoenix Fire Department.

His farewell on June 28, 2024, was emotional, as Hayden thanked viewers for their decades of support. He confirmed plans to remain in Valley television, later announcing his move to 12News.

12News Phoenix (KPNX-TV) | August 1, 2024 – Present

On August 1, 2024, Hayden joined 12News (KPNX-TV, NBC affiliate), beginning with special coverage on Today in AZ during the Summer Olympics. He soon transitioned to evenings, co-anchoring 12News at 4 with Tram Mai and 12News at 5 with Caribe Devine.

• Coverage & Reports:

  • Investigated Arizona prison healthcare and tested a stun belt during coverage of the Lori Vallow Daybell trial.

  • Conducted exclusive interviews with notable figures, including Sammy “The Bull” Gravano and former Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio.

  • Continued immersive field journalism, reflecting the adventurous reporting style that defined his FOX 10 career.

12News promoted his arrival heavily with billboards and commercials, branding him as part of “the most experienced anchor team in the Valley.”

Troy Hayden New Job (at 12News)

After three decades at FOX 10 Phoenix, Troy Hayden made a high-profile career move in August 2024, joining 12News (KPNX-TV), the NBC affiliate in Phoenix. His departure from FOX 10 became official on June 28, 2024, closing a 30-year chapter as one of the station’s most recognizable anchors.

Transition to 12News

Hayden’s first day at 12News was August 1, 2024, when he debuted as a co-anchor on Today in AZ, the station’s morning show. During NBC’s coverage of the Summer Olympics, he also anchored Olympic Zone at 7:30 p.m., expanding his presence with viewers. After the Games, he transitioned into a permanent evening role, anchoring the 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. newscasts alongside Tram Mai, Caribe Devine, and Mark Curtis—a lineup promoted as “the most experienced anchor team in the Valley.”

Reason for the Move

When asked why he left FOX 10, Hayden explained that the decision was guided by a return to core journalistic values:

“I love how at 12News we’re all about journalism… that’s really the main reason I made the switch.”

12News management echoed that sentiment, emphasizing that Hayden’s addition strengthened the station’s credibility and deepened its newsroom experience, with the anchor team collectively representing over 100 years in journalism.

Public Reaction & Promotion

The station teased Hayden’s arrival with billboards and promos across Phoenix, building anticipation before the official announcement. His move was widely celebrated by viewers and welcomed by colleagues, underscoring his enduring popularity and influence in Arizona news.

Troy Hayden Net Worth & Salary

Troy Hayden has built a strong financial profile through his three decades in broadcast journalism, primarily from his long tenure at FOX 10 Phoenix and his current role at 12News (KPNX-TV).

Net Worth

As of 2025, Hayden’s net worth is estimated between $1 million and $5 million. His wealth is largely attributed to his journalism career as a news anchor and field reporter. While specifics about additional assets remain private, it is believed that his income is supplemented by investments, real estate, and possible endorsements.

Salary

Hayden’s annual salary is estimated to range from $70,000 to $110,500, reflecting his seniority, experience, and the high-profile nature of his assignments. At 12News, he continues to anchor flagship evening newscasts and has covered major events such as the Olympic Zone and breaking stories across Arizona. His compensation places him among the more well-paid local news anchors in the United States.

Is Troy Hayden Married?

How Old Is Troy Hayden?

Why did Troy Hayden leave FOX 10?

Troy Hayden left FOX 10 Phoenix in June 2024 after 30 years to pursue a new chapter in his career.

Troy Hayden’s Reason for Leaving FOX 10

In his farewell, Hayden thanked viewers for their loyalty and support, emphasizing that he was not retiring but moving forward in journalism. He described the decision as an opportunity to continue growing while staying in Phoenix TV news.

Viewer Reaction

His exit drew thousands of supportive messages on social media. Colleagues and co-anchors offered heartfelt goodbyes, with one noting: “You will be missed, my friend.”

Soon after, Hayden confirmed he would be joining 12News (KPNX-TV) in August 2024, citing its strong journalism-first values as the key reason for the move.

Why did Troy Hayden move to Channel 12?

roy Hayden joined 12News (KPNX-TV) in August 2024 after 30 years at FOX 10 Phoenix, motivated by a desire to return to journalism-first values.

Why He Made the Move

Hayden explained: “I love how at 12News we’re all about journalism, and that’s important to me. That’s really the main reason I made the switch.” He wanted to be part of a newsroom focused on fairness, accuracy, and community trust.

Career Shift at 12News

• New Role: Started on Today in AZ morning show, then moved to co-anchor the 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. newscasts with Tram Mai and Caribe Devine.

• Olympic Coverage: Anchored NBC’s Olympic Zone during the Summer Games.

• Anchor Team: Joined what 12News calls the most experienced anchor team in the Valley, boasting 100+ years of combined journalism.

Behind the Scenes

12News teased his arrival with billboards and promos but had to keep his identity quiet until his FOX 10 contract ended. Leadership said bringing Hayden on was about strengthening their commitment to quality, community-driven journalism.

What happened to Troy Hayden?

Troy Hayden is doing well and remains a prominent figure in Arizona journalism. In 2024, he made headlines when he left FOX 10 Phoenix after a remarkable 30-year career to join 12News (KPNX-TV), a major NBC affiliate in Phoenix.

Career Transition

• Departure from FOX 10: Signed off in June 2024, marking the end of three decades at the station.

• New Role at 12News: Now co-anchors the 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. newscasts with Tram Mai and Caribe Devine, and hosted NBC’s Olympic Zone during the Summer Games.

• Reason for the Move: Hayden said he wanted to be in a newsroom that prioritizes journalism-first values—accuracy, fairness, and community trust.

Recent Coverage

As of 2025, Hayden continues to produce impactful work. One of his latest reports investigated inmate healthcare in Arizona’s Department of Corrections, exposing systemic failures and sparking public discussion.

Industry Context

His move reflects broader changes in Phoenix’s media landscape, where veteran anchors are being repositioned amid the push for digital-first storytelling. Despite industry shifts, Hayden remains a respected journalist, recognized for his integrity, field reporting, and decades of experience.

Where Is Troy Hayden?

Currently co-anchoring at 12News (KPNX-TV) in Phoenix, handling the 4 PM and 5 PM newscasts

Summary Table