For more than two decades, Damali Keith has been a trusted voice in Houston, delivering the news with passion, empathy and an undeniable connection to the community.
But after 25 years, the longtime FOX 26 reporter and anchor is stepping away from television news and into a new chapter of her career.
“I just–I looked at my watch and my watch said it was time,” she says with a laugh. “So, I’m retiring from TV news.”
Keith isn’t leaving the world of storytelling altogether. Instead, she’s taking her talents to the Harris County District Attorney’s Office.
“I’m headed to the communications department at the DA’s office, and I am really looking forward to that,” she explains. “The DA’s office does such important work, and I’m excited about highlighting the stories of justice being served and giving a voice to the people affected by crime in Houston.”
A Legacy of connection and impact
“Oh my goodness, I love connecting with the people,” she says. “It’s always funny to see my daughter’s reaction when we run into someone who hugs me like an old friend and tells me they remember when she was born. She’ll look at me and ask, ‘Is that a distant relative?’ And I’ll say, ‘No, that’s a viewer.’”
Since arriving in Houston in 2000, Keith has left an indelible mark—not just through her reporting but also through the relationships she’s built along the way. Her connection to the city runs deep, and she cherishes it.
Keith has always been more than just a journalist. She’s been a storyteller with heart. And though she’s signing off from TV news, her dedication to telling meaningful stories isn’t going anywhere.
“I’ve literally dreamed of being ‘the news lady’ since I was 8 years old in third grade, and I’m grateful to God that He allowed me to do it for three decades,” she says. “Now, I’m excited about my new chapter.”
The warmth and love Houston has shown her over the years have been the most rewarding part of her career.
A personal story
Melinda Spaulding, former colleague at FOX 26, shared her admiration for Keith’s professionalism and camaraderie.
“Damali Keith is one of the most genuine and empathic people and reporters whom I’ve ever worked with. Her presence on Houston airwaves will be missed as she served as a role model for so many young women with her style and grace, but I’m so excited for her new chapter,” said Spaulding.
Stories that mattered
While Keith has covered a wide range of topics in her career, it’s the stories that made a real difference that stand out the most.
“One story I did actually allowed a number of Houstonians and Texans to have their birth certificates changed,” she recalls. “There was a time in the ’70s when a particular clerk would write ‘Negroid’ on birth certificates, even though that was never an official term for the state of Texas. People were struggling to get it corrected on their own, and when we brought attention to it, the issue was resolved immediately. I’m really proud of that story.”
Embracing change, encouraging others
“I’d say absolutely, positively, go for it,” she advises.
“Over the years, a lot of women have reached out to me, saying they majored in journalism or always wanted to work in TV news but felt like it was too late,” she said. “And I always tell them no, it’s not. Now, as I’m making this transition myself, I’ll admit I’m nervous. I’m excited, but I’m also scared because I’ve never done anything else. But when something really matters to you, you’re going to feel a little nervous. That just means it’s important.”
Her biggest cheerleader through it all? Her daughter, who is currently studying abroad.
“She tells me, ‘Mom, you’ve got this. I’m so proud of you. You’ve set a great example for me,’” Keith says. “That means the world to me.”
What’s next?
As for her future, Keith is keeping an open mind.
“I think it’s one chapter at a time,” she says. “I’m someone who likes to dig my roots in and stay, and that’s what I’m hoping for at the DA’s office. But we’ll see what happens.”
And to her Houston community, her FOX 26 family, and her many viewers over the years, she has one final message:
“I have so much gratitude for all of you who trusted me with your stories, who I’ve had the pleasure of meeting, and to those who welcomed me into your homes for decades—I thank you with all my heart.”
