Al Allen Biography: Al Allen, born as Andrew Long in Little Rock, Arkansas, was a legendary journalist who spent nearly 50 years reporting in Detroit. His no-nonsense approach and deep connection with the community made him a household name. Al passed away at the age of 79 on February 4, 2025, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in journalism.
Education
Al attended Mumford High School in Detroit, where his passion for journalism first took shape. He participated in the student-run broadcast “Spotlight on Mumford,” showcasing his talent at a young age. After high school, he pursued a journalism degree at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.
Career
Al began his career in 1969 as the news director for KOKY radio in Little Rock. However, his heart was always in Detroit, and he soon returned to work for WCXI-AM and WGPR-FM. His talent and determination led him to become the news and public affairs director at WJLB-FM.
In 1984, Al got his big break when he joined WJBK-TV2 (Fox 2 Detroit). He remained there until his retirement in 2012, becoming one of the most trusted voices in the city. He had a unique ability to connect with people, making his reporting feel personal and relatable.
Awards
Throughout his career, Al received numerous awards for his outstanding journalism. He won recognition from United Press International and the Associated Press for his coverage of significant events, including the slaying of Jimmy Hoffa loyalist Otto Wendell.
His documentaries, including “Merry-Go-Round of Denial: The Black Alcoholic” and “Crime by Color, Black on Black,” won him the prestigious Robert F. Kennedy Journalism Award. His report “Motown: Where Did Our Love Go?” was even nominated for an Emmy, proving his ability to tackle important social issues with depth and clarity.
His book, “We’re Standing By,” came out in 2018 and shared stories from his career and his views on journalism. In 2021, he was honored by being added to the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame, recognizing his hard work and impact.
Wife and Children
Al Allen was married to Alfreda Long, with whom he shared a strong and loving bond. Together, they had one son, Andrew Long Jr., and were proud grandparents to two grandsons.
Death
On February 4, 2025, Al Allen passed away at the age of 79, marking the end of an era in Detroit journalism. His legacy lives on in the city he loved, and his contributions to journalism will never be forgotten.
Al Allen Biography: FAQs
1. How old was Al Allen when he passed away?
Al Allen was 79 years old when he passed away on February 4, 2025.
2. Who was Al Allen’s wife?
Al Allen was married to Alfreda Long, and together they had a son, Andrew Long Jr., and two grandsons.
3. Which news channel did Al Allen work for?
Al Allen was a well-known reporter for WJBK-TV2 (Fox 2 Detroit), where he worked from 1984 until his retirement in 2012.
Al Allen biography will be updated here as new details emerge.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and sources believed to be reliable. This post is for informational purposes only. India Present Info will not be responsible for any wrong information, readers are encouraged to verify the information independently.
