When tracking prominent figures in broadcast journalism, public curiosity often extends beyond the anchor desk and into personal lives. Viewers frequently search for details about Kelly O'Donnell's husband, wanting to know who shares a life with the veteran NBC News senior Washington correspondent.
Kelly O'Donnell is married to J. David Ake, an accomplished American photojournalist and media executive. While O'Donnell spends her time reporting from the front lines of American politics, capital hill, and presidential campaigns, Ake spent decades behind the camera lens documenting historic global events as a leading figure in visual journalism. Their union brings together two seasoned professionals who have spent their entire adult lives working within the fast-paced ecosystem of major news organizations.
Who Is J. David Ake?
J. David Ake built a long and highly respected career in photojournalism and newsroom management. Best known for his leadership roles within major wire services, Ake served as the Director of Photography for The Associated Press (AP) before eventually retiring from that post. In that capacity, he managed teams of elite photographers covering global conflicts, elections, natural disasters, and major sporting events.
Before heading the photo department at the AP, Ake worked across the globe for several other prominent news agencies. His career stops included stints with:
- United Press International (UPI)
- Agence France-Presse (AFP)
- Reuters
Throughout his career in the field, Ake traveled to dozens of countries across multiple continents, capturing iconic images of world leaders, historical milestones, and breaking news. His dedication to the craft earned him widespread respect among peers in the National Press Photographers Association and other industry groups.
A Shared Dedication to the News Industry
Both O'Donnell and Ake built their professional identities around the news cycle. Because they both operate at high levels within the Washington, D.C., media landscape, they share a unique understanding of the demands, erratic schedules, and intense pressures inherent in broadcast and print journalism.
O'Donnell has been a fixture on NBC News since the late 1990s, covering multiple presidential cycles, white house administrations, and landmark congressional hearings. Ake spent decades coordinating visual coverage for major national events, meaning both partners understand what it means to drop everything when a major global story breaks. Their shared professional background provides a solid foundation of mutual respect for each other's demanding careers.
Keeping Personal Life Out of the Spotlight
Despite working in high-profile media environments where public attention is constant, the couple maintains a strict boundary between their professional lives and personal privacy. They don't court tabloid attention, and they rarely discuss the inner workings of their marriage in public interviews.
Instead, they keep the focus on their respective professional outputs. This low-key approach has allowed them to sustain a stable, long-term marriage away from the relentless scrutiny that often accompanies high-profile television personalities and journalists. They reside in the Washington, D.C., area, close to the political hubs where both built their careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Kelly O'Donnell married to?
Kelly O'Donnell is married to J. David Ake, a retired photojournalist and former Director of Photography for The Associated Press.
What does J. David Ake do for a living?
Ake is a professional photojournalist and visual news executive. Over his career, he worked for Reuters, AFP, UPI, and led global photo operations for the AP before retiring from full-time corporate news management.
Do Kelly O'Donnell and J. David Ake have children?
The couple keeps their family life private and has not publicly shared details regarding children, choosing instead to focus public attention entirely on their professional achievements.
How long have they been married?
While the exact wedding date is kept private, the couple has been married for many years, supporting each other through decades of demanding assignments in Washington, D.C.
