CNN’s Rahel Solomon has been making headlines as the new anchor for ‘Early Start’. The Sudan-born business reporter is taking the reins of the morning news show, bringing a fresh perspective to CNN’s programming. Here are five key things to know about the talented journalist who is now leading the 5 a.m. time slot on CNN.
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Rahel Solomon has an unconventional career path. Despite studying finance in college and contemplating a career in banking, she had a change of heart before graduating. This led her to take a year off and later pursue a degree in journalism. This decision eventually catapulted her into the world of financial journalism, where she found her true calling.
Having lived in various locations around the world, from Sudan to the United States and even Europe, Solomon has had a diverse upbringing. However, it is Philadelphia where she has spent the most time and proudly refers to herself as a “Philly girl.” Her roots in the city run deep, and she is a passionate fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, showing her loyalty to her hometown team.
During her time as a morning anchor for CBS Philly, Solomon had a viral moment that caught the attention of many viewers. Participating in the “hot chip challenge” on air with her co-anchor, she showcased her love for spicy foods, a trait she attributes to her Ethiopian heritage. The light-hearted moment went viral, and she still gets recognized for it, showcasing her fun and relatable personality.
In a fairy-tale-like setting, Rahel Solomon tied the knot with lawyer Marcel S. Pratt at the Philadelphia Museum of Art in July 2024. The couple’s wedding was a celebration of their diverse backgrounds, blending Solomon’s Ethiopian heritage with Pratt’s affiliation with the historically Black fraternity Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Their love story began at a networking event, proving that fate works in mysterious ways.
Solomon is not just a skilled journalist, but also a fitness enthusiast. Describing herself as an “on-again, off-again” long-distance runner, she has completed marathons and longer runs, including The Broad Street Run in Philadelphia. While she acknowledges her intermittent breaks from running, she aims to maintain consistency in her fitness regime, highlighting her dedication to a healthy lifestyle.
Catch Rahel Solomon on ‘Early Start’ on CNN, CNNi, and CNN Max weekdays at 5 a.m. ET, where she brings her unique background and vibrant personality to viewers worldwide. Her captivating journey from a career switch to viral fame and a picture-perfect wedding reflects her versatility as a journalist and her ability to connect with audiences on a personal level.
As CNN’s programming undergoes a refresh with Solomon leading the charge on ‘Early Start’, viewers can expect a dynamic and engaging start to their mornings. With her blend of journalistic expertise, cultural richness, and infectious enthusiasm, Rahel Solomon is set to make a lasting impression in the world of morning news. Stay tuned to witness her rise and the impact she makes in the realm of broadcast journalism with her new role on CNN.