Ted Chen, longtime NBC4 News reporter, trades journalism for a future as a Christian pastor

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Forget reporter Ted. Call him Pastor Ted now.

After 28 years as a news anchor for NBC4 in Los Angeles, Ted Chen said goodbye on Wednesday. He’s leaving his career to become a Christian minister.

Television

Fritz Coleman, a well-known TV news personality in the local area for nearly 40 years at NBC4, is marking two years of performing his comedy show about life, aging, and relationships after turning 70.

As many of you know, I’ve been studying at seminary for several years. I recently earned my master’s degree in Christian studies, and I’m currently working on my doctorate in ministry. Tomorrow, I’ll be transitioning to full-time ministry work after completing my studies.

After working at a fast pace for over 30 years, he may need a short break to adjust. However, Chen is excited about slowing down, focusing more intently on his work, and finally having the freedom to spend more time with his wife without last-minute work commitments.

He said he’ll really miss it. He explained that being involved in this line of work is a rush, and he felt a significant weight of responsibility over the years.

My film journey took me all over the West Coast – starting in Reno, then Fresno, then San Diego – before finally landing me in L.A. But honestly, the absolute highlight of everything I’ve shot? Definitely the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. That was a dream project.

Hollywood Inc.

The 83rd annual awards show, hosted by Nikki Glaser, drew an average of 8.66 million viewers on TV and streaming platforms.

He recalled it being China’s first time hosting the Olympics and how proud his parents were. ‘They were incredibly excited,’ he said. ‘It was really powerful to witness that moment for China, and I was glad I got to travel to rural areas and report on the challenges faced by farmers.’

Chen loved working at awards shows – after all, reporters are allowed to have fun sometimes! – and he especially cherished interviewing Leonard Nimoy, a personal hero as a lifelong Star Trek fan.

“I normally don’t get starstruck,” Chen said, “but — him. Mr. Spock.” Whoo-ee.

In a farewell video, NBC4 reporter Hetty Chang shared a memory of when she first understood how much Los Angeles residents cared for Chen.

Hollywood Inc.

A veteran team member unexpectedly left the show just three days after Tony Dokoupil became the new anchor.

She recalled the first time she rode with him in the Golden Dragon Chinese New Year parade, saying she was struck by how famous he seemed. “People were stopping our car, the float we were on, and shouting things like, ‘Stop! I need a picture with Ted Chen!'” she remembered, adding that he looked like a movie star.

Chen’s wife, Ariell, shared her support on Instagram, encouraging people to watch his farewell message on TV. They met through a matchmaking service after Ariell, who was then Ariell Kirylo, had relocated from Los Angeles. They bonded over their shared faith and community at Vintage Church in Santa Monica.

It was so funny to hear her say that! Apparently, she and her now-husband were actually living near each other for a long time, but it took a really roundabout way for them to finally connect. She had to move all the way to D.C. and use a Florida-based matchmaker to finally meet him – at her church back in L.A.! It just goes to show, even when you’re in a place known for dating like L.A., finding the right person can be totally unexpected.

NBCLA didn’t initially respond to a request for comment from The Times. However, Ted Chen offered his own perspective, echoing the sentiments of many athletes he’s admired. After Brownlee and Williams shared their kind words, Chen said he appreciated their support and wanted to give credit to God.

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2026-01-16 02:01