PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRE’ANN WHITE
If you live in metro Detroit, chances are that you recognize Jason Carr and Taryn Asher and have regularly witnessed their dedication to the community from the comfort of your own home. What may be less familiar, though, is that these two Emmy Award-winning broad-cast journalists also share a longstanding commitment to one another, one which began and blossomed many years ago at a TV station in Flint.
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“We can actually thank our beloved former news director Jim Bleicher at ABC 12 in Flint, who put us together as the Sunday morning anchor team,” Asher says. “We had instant chemistry. In fact, many people thought we were a couple before it even happened.”
Carr chimes in, “I would only add the metaphysical asterisk that if Jim Bleicher hadn’t made the genius decision to hire Taryn, we likely would not be married today, and we would not have the perfect kid. So kudos to Jim.”
Asher describes Carr as charming, handsome, cerebral, funny, and sometimes aloof. “Working the same shift and sitting in neighboring cubicles, it wasn’t hard to fall in love,” she says.
The next step, Asher says, wasn’t easy because they wanted to make sure that they each had the opportunity to pursue their individual career goals. “Jason was hired first at Fox 2 in Detroit. Three years later, I was hired, but we were hired on our own ability and experience,” Asher says. “If anyone has watched, it makes sense. I was more of an investigative, hard news reporter and news anchor, and Jason was the entertaining host and feature reporter although he can handle any breaking news or story thrown his way.”
Today, Carr hosts “Live in the D” and “Jason Carr Live” on Local 4 WDIV Detroit. In June, he launched his first column exclusively for ClickonDetroit, which he characterizes as an extension of the personal pieces he had been sharing on his Facebook page for more than a decade. “I know nostalgia is a cheap currency, but I have a particular almost savant-like memory of my metro Detroit childhood, and I like to write about it,” he says. “And viewers/followers have been after me to turn my memories into a book — not quite there yet, but I love to name-check Great Scott, Kinney Shoes, Hot Sam’s, Quo Vadis cinemas, and all the rest we all treasure.”
Asher was recently promoted to nightly news anchor at FOX 2 News Detroit, replacing longtime anchor, Monica Gayle. She co-anchors the 5 p.m., 6 p.m., 10 p.m., and 11 p.m. newscasts with Roop Raj, Huel Perkins’ replacement who Asher describes as “such a solid journalist and great friend.” “I feel grateful to have him [Raj] as my co-anchor along with Dan Miller and Rich Luterman. They are pros!” Asher says. “I have worked toward becoming the main evening anchor in Detroit my entire career. It felt so good signing my new contract and realizing that after three news markets and 25 years in the business, the hard work and sacrifice had paid off.”
Asher and Carr will celebrate their 15th wedding anniversary in October. When they are not on set or on the air, they enjoy golfing, skiing, and traveling with Gia, their 11-year-old daughter.
Tell us a little about you and your career journey. Did you always envision having a career in broadcast journalism? Who or what inspired your professional path? How did you end up here, in Detroit?
Jason: I had the weirdest career journey, which culminated in meeting my now wife. I started out post-college trying to get hired at newspapers. I still have all the rejection letters in a binder. Long story short a friend dropped my name and got me into radio and the same year a different friend dropped my name and I got a weekly sports show in Lansing on Fox 47.
Those gigs led to Alpena and my first full-time job in TV news. I was anchor/producer/weather guy at WBKB, or as it is known locally, We Barely Know Broadcasting. I think my starting salary was $12,000 a year. And it was an absolute blast. Love Alpena to this day.
After a brief cup of coffee in Traverse City/Cadillac I found my way to Flint, where I would eventually meet Taryn. The chemistry was evident to viewers almost immediately but after a minute it became apparent to each other as well. Thanks to Taryn’s belief in me I moved on to FOX 2 in Detroit, we got married, and she joined me there shortly after.
15 years later my career has taken me to Local 4 but I am very proud to say my wife remains at WJBK and has recently assumed the main anchor duties with Roop Raj in place of the retiring Huel Perkins and Monica Gayle. She is every bit the lean-in rock star; taking care of hearth and home and also the news.
I used to see Taryn on the midday news on Lansing’s CBS WLNS. Years before I met her. I would point out to my college roommate that I thought she was a stunner and he agreed. Little did I know we would one day be married and have a child together. It’s funny how fate operates.
Taryn: I loved watching Detroit news growing up – the urgency – the impact – the presence of those who told stories or anchored the news. My passion for broadcast journalism started in 2nd grade and there was no looking back. You can ask my family, friends and teachers.
I studied Journalism and Political Science at MSU, while interning, working at a government access station and a local affiliate. I started turning in my tv news stories, that had already aired as homework. It was a big deal back then. My experience got me a job offer as weekend anchor/reporter at WLNS Ch 6 in Lansing right after I graduated from college. I was thrilled and so were my parents, who were 1000% supportive, even though my first job earned me $19,000 a year!
I soon made my way to a larger market ABC 12 in Flint working my way to 5pm anchor and reporter. It’s the station where I co-anchored and eventually fell in love with Jason – it will always be a station near and dear to my heart.
Jason, you host Live with Jason Carr and Live in the D on weekday mornings, and Taryn, you anchor Fox 2 News in the evenings. Working opposite schedules must be pretty demanding. How do you juggle those day-to-day demands at work and at home?
Jason: Honestly without my wife the house would probably catch on fire and there would be an inter-dimensional portal that let loose angry gnomes (that’s a Gravity Falls reference—look it up).
But seriously my amazement at how my wife manages the work-life balance is off the charts. She is a main anchor but without her as main anchor at home I don’t know how we would manage.
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We work opposite schedules, which obviously isn’t ideal. But she keeps the calendar, does the dishes, reminds me Gia has karate. She’s nothing short of a dynamo. All I have to do is come home and ask my daughter if she wants to see some obscure Eighties movie she’s never seen before. Taryn is a superwoman and saint.
Taryn: Honestly, it is not easy. At all. I was recently promoted and anchor the 5, 6, 10 & 11, but I have always worked nights. I am not going to sugar coat it. It’s extremely challenging personally and professionally.
Jason works M-F 7am to 3pm and I work 3pm until 11:30pm. I love lists (which Jason does not😊) I cook dinner before I go to work, do laundry, clean and make sure Gia has everything she needs for the evening. Jason often drives her to the activities. Sometimes I get to go home between shows to see them. Since we really only get 48 hours on the weekend to be together, we try to balance family time and friends and make every minute count.
What is your greatest professional accomplishment?
Jason: I don’t know how to answer this because it is going to come across as the kids these days call a humblebrag. I helped lead two different talk shows on two different stations to No.1 in the all-important female demographic inside of three years. I think that is my career epitaph. That is how I want to be remembered professionally.
Taryn: I love my new position anchoring the nightly news, but my investigative stories over the years that exposed corruption, abuse or fraud and brought real change or criminal charges against the bad guys have really meant the most to me. I have won several awards for my work, but it’s being a voice for those who need to be heard or getting to the root of the problem and pushing for change that has made me feel so good about my profession.
What is your thought process for choosing your attire before each broadcast? What are your tips and tricks for looking good on-screen?
Taryn: My mom always taught me to go to the mirror and take one accessory or piece off. She always says “more is not better,” and she’s right, especially on camera. I really try to avoid patterns and anything floral or flowing. For some reason, for me and my body type, fitted is better. It really is important to realize what looks good on you and what works against you. Just because it is cute on the hanger, doesn’t mean it is cute on you.
Jason: Make sure the belt matches the shoes and nothing is wrinkled. I prefer sport coats and jeans and shirts that have a collar that pops rather than lays down. I vehemently do not like short collars that lay down. Being that style also includes facial hair, I like when my beard grows out. Our viewers have strong opinions with only some being on the short beard front. When I am clean-shaven, I don’t like it. Most viewers prefer when I’ve got some scruff.
What best describes your off-camera look or everyday style?
Jason: I will wear what I wore to work to weed-whack the yard. This is true. I hate changing.
Taryn: I try to be stylish and follow new trends appropriate for me. I love to try new looks or create new outfits, but I try not to break the bank to do so. High-low is a great way to go. I like to pair an expensive pair of jeans with a basic top and boyfriend blazer or vegan leather with fun affordable shoes or booties. I look forward to dressing up for a night out or an event. That’s when I get to be more edgy. And I love wearing hats, always have. When it comes to downtime, you’ll see me in jean shorts and a T-shirt or yoga clothes. I do not dress up to run errands.
Who is/are your style icon(s)?
Jason: Rat Pack. Blues Brothers. George Clooney and Brad Pitt in Oceans 11. I had a brand in London that specialized in tall collared shirts. I believe they have since gone out of business but I love the look of a tall, broad collar. Like Roger Moore as James Bond in the 1970’s. Or Hart to Hart.
Taryn: I really have so many! First and foremost, my mom Toni Asher. She had an incredible career in the fashion and retail industry working as a buyer to a boss at Hudson’s AND always knew how to wear the latest styles in a professional way, always with a pair of high heels! We love talking about the latest trends together – Still!
When it comes to glamor, JLO always nails it.
I have always loved the look of Halston – with the elegant and sexy dresses he designed in the 70’s during the disco era. Gianni Versace’s runway looks of the 90’s – especially the leather and harness dresses that are now back in style. I really like to take a little from all designers and price points depending on what is in style for the season and what I can afford…
You’re both recognizable figures … How does your notoriety come into play when you’re out and about doing normal life stuff? How does your child react to your celebrity status?
Taryn: It really doesn’t. Jason and I love talking to viewers! Think about it, without them, we wouldn’t have jobs! For me, I love my job, but being on TV doesn’t define me. It seems our daughter is use to it. It’s all she knows. She also knows how hard we work. Jason and I have always told her, just because our jobs are on TV, it doesn’t make us different than anyone else. My grandpa always said, “we all put our pants on, one leg at a time.”
Jason: Again, going to defer to Taryn on this question. I would only add that I will prank viewers who know I’m the TV guy but can’t remember my name. I tell them I’m Huel Perkins. And they almost always say “that’s right—Huel Perkins! I love you!” Gia is a champ about us being locally “famous.” Could not be more proud how chill she is about it.
You both work so hard. What do you like to do in your spare time? What are your hobbies and interests?
Jason: In my spare time I am an avid golfer and bowler. Humblebrag: our Local 4 team took home the trophy in our league! Shout out to my colleague and teammate Paul Gross. You can catch us tearing up the lanes weekly at Hartfield Lanes in Berkley. I’m also into super nerdy stuff like Mystery Science Theater 3000 and re-runs of Seinfeld and Curb.
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Taryn: I really love to practice Vinyasa, hot yoga. After working late, it’s tough to get the motivation to get up in the morning and go, but I am always glad I did. I still try to run, but sometimes it’s just walking the dog.
It’s always fun to golf with Jason and snow ski or with our daughter Gia. Traveling is a MUST. It’s also quality time we can get as a family. We do like to host and spend time with friends and family at our house. And here’s a bonus: Jason and I are often asked to host charity events together. We love it – it’s a date night for us.
What do you love the most about the metro Detroit community?
Taryn: Honestly, the people. We live in such a diverse area filled with so much culture and so many things to do. I am 50% Syrian and 50% Italian, so there is no shortage of markets or delicious restaurants when I am craving mom and dad’s cooking! It’s important to us to raise our daughter with kids of all different ethnicities and backgrounds. She will be a better person because of it.
Jason: If you have been following my Facebook page for the last decade, you would know this automatically: I love this town. I grew up watching Bill Bonds and Mort Crim. I love that my father was an autoworker at the Ford Rouge Plant. I ‘ship Detroit-style pizza and coney dogs (‘ship is current speak for worship). What is not to like about metro Detroit? From Wyandotte to Royal Oak, from Rochester to Novi? From downtown to Corktown — what is not to like?
Where are your favorite places to shop in metro Detroit?
Taryn: Because I don’t have a lot of time to shop, I do a lot of online shopping! When I do shop locally, I like SHE, Caruso Caruso, Rear Ends, Jaus and Evereve. At the mall, Zara is my go to.
Who are some of your favorite local brands or designers?
Jason: Valia Design absolutely nailed our house remodel back in 2019. We spent TWO YEARS trying to find our forever house and ultimately decided to stay right where we still are. Dana the designer was simply genius at managing both the project and us.
Have you ever had a spousal argument in front of a remodeler mid-project? She handled like a champ. We have a running joke that I was really the creator of CarrBar (I was) but Dana deserves credit for the wallpaper and the cabinets. Just kidding, Dana. Couldn’t have done it without you. Appreciate you.
What is your favorite local coffee/tea shop? What is your drink of choice?
Taryn: Detroit Bold Coffee, but when I need caffeine, I’ll have anything. A Spanish coffee on a cold day is always great too!
Jason: I would tell you if I had a local favorite coffee shop. I don’t know if it was Covid but after 35 years I lost my taste for coffee. The second part of the question is my drink of choice. I would say if I was just having a beer it would be Miller High Life, the champagne of beers. Or a house cab. Or a Moscow Mule.
What is your favorite metro Detroit restaurant?
Jason: This is dangerous territory because I am at risk of offending 42 places if I pick one. I’m going to hedge. For fish ‘n’ chips it is obviously Scotty Simpson’s. For a burger it’s Peanut Barrel in East Lansing. For goat cheese ravioli it’s Ocean Prime. For sliders it’s Comet Burger in Royal Oak. For a burrito it’s Carnival Market in Pontiac, for a sub it’s Ricky’s Sub Shop in Dearborn, for a gyro it’s a place in Flint called Coney Grill. I could go on all day.
Taryn: There are so many! Bill’s in Bloomfield Hills for brunch, and Sylvan Table, Leila’s and Joe Muer Seafood for Dinner.
Is there a hidden gem in Metro Detroit that you swear by?
Taryn: I love old school Italian restaurants like Trattoria De Luigi in Royal Oak, Café’ Cortina or Dearborn’s Alcomo’s Italian Market because they remind me of my grandmother’s cooking and house. I recently discovered Café D’Mongo’s Speakeasy in Detroit. That was a fun find!
Jason: Since we just did food I would go with Solo Records in Royal Oak. Imagine a place with thousands of records, tapes and CD’s and then imagine if that place also had VHS tapes and DVD’s and vintage audio equipment. And the staff was really super nice. And you could try before you buy. This is the place.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Taryn: I think COVID-19, the pandemic, and all we are dealing with in the world shows us how tough our days can be, but there is always tomorrow.
Jason: Yes. If you were a young lady — let’s say college age. And you were looking for a role model, you could do much worse than Taryn Asher. We recently had the privilege of doing a fashion shoot for a magazine. Perhaps you have heard of it because you are reading it right now. Taryn was the very picture of style and grace as we changed clothes over three hours of studio time. Not a diva bone in her body. Even if you don’t go into broadcasting, my wife’s ability to be real and disarm a room is without equal. She could teach a master class on how to be grateful and humble. You should look her up. But watch Local 4.
Check out Taryn and Jason in our Fall Fashion 2022 spread here.
Source: https://t-tees.com
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