Jim Cantore Recalls Missing Kids’ Birthdays, Christmases to Cover Storms, Says Ex-Wife Deserves ‘Tremendous Amount of Credit’ (Exclusive)

**Veteran Meteorologist Jim Cantore Reflects on Career and Family Legacy**

Renowned American meteorologist Jim Cantore has amassed a memorable 40-year career at The Weather Channel, marked by breathtaking storm chases and life-altering weather events. Now aged 62, he looks back on his journey with a sense of gratitude, particularly for the unwavering support he received from his ex-wife, Tamra Zinn, during both their marriage and beyond. The pair were married from 1990 until their divorce in 2009 and share two children together.

In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Cantore acknowledged the critical role that Zinn played in his success. He highlighted her dedication in managing the household while he pursued his career, saying, “The credit goes back to Tamra, because a lot of times it would fall on her when we were married and even afterward.” The couple remains committed to co-parenting their children, Ben and Christina, both of whom have been diagnosed with Fragile X syndrome—a genetic disorder associated with developmental delays and intellectual disabilities.

Cantore met Zinn while they both worked at The Weather Channel, a connection that flourished into marriage. Emphasising the demands of his profession, he recalled, “I’ve left on Christmas days, I’ve left on birthdays, I’ve missed Christmases, and you can’t ever have those times back.” Despite his extensive time spent chasing storms, Cantore takes strength in the fact that he can now spend quality moments with his children, who are now adults navigating life with Fragile X syndrome. “In a really weird kind of way, it’s nice that my kids are still kids with Fragile X, so I still get a chance to be dad to them,” he expressed.

As his career has progressed, Cantore has made a conscious decision to prioritise family time. Now selective about the weather events he covers, he shares, “I don’t go out on everything. It’s the big stuff now for me, so I get to do a lot more with them.” This shift underscores his commitment to providing emotional and physical support to his children, even as they continue to grow and face their own set of challenges.

Reflecting on their shared parenting journey, Cantore emphasised that he could not have managed the complexities of raising children with special needs without Zinn by his side. She was not only his partner but also a formidable player at The Weather Channel during their marriage. “I couldn’t have done it without my ex-wife, who, if she hadn’t gotten Parkinson’s, she would’ve been the president of The Weather Channel back in the day, because she was a player,” he remarked, honouring her significant contributions to the network.

Tamra Zinn, who held the role of Director of Operations at The Weather Channel, was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s disease more than 35 years ago. In a heartfelt Mother’s Day tribute on Instagram, Cantore shared an image of Zinn alongside their children, labelling her the “rock” of their family. He praised her extraordinary qualities, calling her “an incredible wife, tennis player, skier, and VP for Weather Channel,” and acknowledged her selflessness in choosing to focus on raising their children while managing her own health issues.

Cantore’s reflections do not shy away from the realities that life has taught him. He pointed out how basic tasks have become daunting for Zinn due to her condition, yet her resilience has shone through, as she continues to approach each day with positivity and purpose. Their journey together has evidently been one of both struggle and triumph, illustrating the vital importance of support systems in the face of adversity.

As he speaks about his career, Cantore displays a mix of nostalgia and pride. “It’s been a hell of a ride,” he said, looking back on the years spent tracking storms and informing the public. He expressed a willingness to relive the experience, stating, “I’d do it again if I could. Probably the same way.” In the end, Cantore concludes that the most significant role in his life is that of a father. “I’m blessed to be able to still be a dad because that’s more important to me than anything is being a dad. That is the big mission.”

In summarising his journey, Jim Cantore not only highlights his accomplishments as a meteorologist but also sheds light on the profound impact of family and the relationships that helped shape his career. Through challenges and success, he remains committed to being an active presence in his children’s lives, underscoring the values of family, support, and understanding.