Eva Pilgrim: From Local Reporter to National Anchor - A Journey in Broadcast Journalism
Eva Pilgrim's career trajectory is a compelling narrative of dedication, versatility, and a deep-seated passion for journalism. From her early days as a local reporter in West Virginia to her current role as the anchor of "Inside Edition," Pilgrim's journey showcases the power of hard work, adaptability, and a genuine connection with people. This article explores Pilgrim's education, career milestones, and the values that have guided her success.
Early Life and Education: Roots in South Carolina
Born in Seoul, South Korea, to a Korean mother and an American father with military service, Eva Pilgrim's upbringing instilled in her a global perspective and an appreciation for diverse cultures. Her family eventually settled in Lexington, South Carolina, where she attended Airport High School. Pilgrim has spoken about the lack of representation of half-Asian women on television during her childhood, highlighting the importance of diversity in media.
Pilgrim pursued her higher education at the University of South Carolina. She also earned a degree from the University of Florida.
Early Career: Honing Skills in Local News
Pilgrim's career began by writing web content for WIS. After graduating from the University of South Carolina, Pilgrim embarked on her broadcast journalism career at WVVA in Bluefield, West Virginia, in 2004. She served as both a reporter and an anchor, gaining invaluable experience in covering local news and connecting with the community. Pilgrim fondly recalls her time at WVVA, emphasizing the crucial role of experienced colleagues in mentoring and training young journalists. "There is really this sort of like built in, like schooling that happens with the older staff that’s already there teaching the younger staff how to do this job,” Pilgrim noted. She credits WVVA for providing her with a strong foundation in journalism, stating, “So much of what I learned and the sort of core of what I hold close to me that I think really matters, I learned working there.” She even recalls that WVVA was the only station to offer her a "yes" after sending out hundreds of resume tapes.
From 2004 to 2006 she worked at WVVA as a reporter.
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Following her time in West Virginia, Pilgrim expanded her experience by working at television stations in Columbia, South Carolina, and Charlotte, North Carolina. She further honed her skills as an anchor/reporter at WXIN-TV in Indianapolis, Indiana, before moving to WPVI-TV in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. These experiences in various local markets allowed her to develop a versatile skill set and a deep understanding of the issues facing different communities.
Transition to National News: ABC News and "GMA3"
In January 2016, Pilgrim joined ABC News as a correspondent, marking a significant step in her career. She covered numerous breaking news stories, including major events such as the mass shooting in Nashville, Tennessee, and Hurricanes Matthew, Harvey, Irma, Maria, and Michael. As a correspondent for ABC News, Pilgrim, 41, has reported on breaking news stories including the mass shooting in Nashville, Tenn., as well as Hurricanes Matthew, Harvey, Irma, Maria and Michael. Her reporting often highlighted stories of courage and resilience, such as the story of a 12-year-old boy who saved his therapist from drowning. “I’ve learned there’s a lot of good in the world,” she says.
In May 2023, Pilgrim's career reached another milestone when she and DeMarco Morgan were named co-anchors of "GMA3: What You Need to Know." On “GMA3: What You Need to Know,” Pilgrim, Morgan and Ashton cover news, health and lifestyle information. The show covers a range of topics, including news, health, and lifestyle, and Pilgrim played a key role in delivering impactful interviews and information to viewers. “Knowing we only have between two and six minutes for each interview segment on the show, we work to ensure the questions we ask are impactful,” Pilgrim says. She and Morgan hosted the show for two years up to June 2025 before going through a format change where both Morgan and Pilgrim departed ABC News.
"Inside Edition": A New Chapter
In July 2025, Pilgrim embarked on a new chapter in her career, joining "Inside Edition" as the new anchor. She took over the anchor chair from longtime host Debrah Norville, who announced her departure earlier in the year. Pilgrim expressed her excitement about joining the show, stating, “Anchoring Inside Edition is truly a dream job. I have been an avid viewer and fan of the show for many years. I’m pinching myself that I get to work with this amazing team. It’s truly an honor to join a show with such a long, rich history.”
Pilgrim announced the promotion Sept. 29. “Today is a day I never dreamed was possible,” Pilgrim posted on Instagram.
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Values and Personal Life: Staying Grounded
Despite her success in the fast-paced world of national news, Pilgrim remains grounded and connected to her roots. She emphasizes the importance of kindness, listening, and paying attention to others. “My mom always says kindness is a look that never goes out of style,” Pilgrim says with a smile. “Being kind seems like a small act, but when you add it all up it can really make a big impact on you and those around you,” she says. Pilgrim believes practicing kindness involves listening and paying attention to those around you. It’s a philosophy she’s carried with her throughout her broadcasting career. She also values family time and makes an effort to disconnect from work during weekends. “I think it’s healthy to have that downtime when you’re not in work mode and you just recharge and live your life,” she says.
Pilgrim's upbringing in the South has also shaped her identity. “Where you’re raised is an intrinsic part of who you are. Baptist preacher. I was sitting in church every Sunday,” she says. She embraces her Southern roots and appreciates the sense of community she experienced growing up. She’s not knocking her adopted city. wants to be. what you choose to make it,” she says.
Advice and Reflections: Overcoming Obstacles
Pilgrim's journey has not been without its challenges. She recalls facing numerous rejections early in her career, stating, “I can’t tell you how many people told me no when I was applying for my first job. I think I sent out hundreds of resume tapes and WVVA was the only one that gave me a ‘yes.’ So without them, it wouldn’t have been possible." Her perseverance and determination ultimately led her to success.
She started her career working as a web producer in Columbia, according to the statement.
Eva’s success is a testament to her hard work and her passion for journalism,” said Andrea Tanner, the director of the School of Journalism and Mass Communications. “Eva is a smart, kind, down-to-earth person with a great sense of humor - someone you want as a colleague in your news organization and on the air, connecting with viewers. I can’t wait to watch her.”
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