Community Corner

Woodbury Grad Kristine Zell: From 'Whatever' to Morning Show TV Host in Charlotte

The Woodbury High School graduate started out in television as a teenager at KARE 11.

Kristine Zell’s alarm is set for 1:30 a.m. each day.

“It’s a lifestyle adjustment,” she said.

A 2002 graduate of Woodbury High School, Zell recently began her new job as co-host on Rising, a WCCB morning show in Charlotte.

Zell, 30, started out in television as a teenager on the KARE 11 show Whatever, learning the ropes of TV news before she went on to Pepperdine University.

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She recalled the support of family, friends and teachers from her time in Woodbury, notably a New Life Academy cheerleading coach who helped her with college applications.

Zell (nee Sward) transferred to Woodbury High School for her junior and senior years because she could get out earlier for tapings of Whatever.

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“I’m really thankful to the Woodbury community,” she said.

Zell had always been interested in television, and her time at KARE 11, where she continued interning after her time on the teen show, “kind of solidified it.”

On Rising, Zell discusses the day’s news and lifestyle features, but she still remembers covering the Woodbury football team for Whatever.

She said she enjoys the “watchdog” aspect of her job and informing the Charlotte community. And she doesn’t mind getting up early.

“It’s fun,” Zell said. “It never feels like work.”

Zell’s parents and brother live in Woodbury.

“I still love Woodbury. I love going back to visit,” Zell said.

People can keep in touch with Zell on Twitter and Facebook.

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