Laila Ali, a world-class athlete and champion of health and fitness, has been named a contributing correspondent for THE EARLY SHOW, it was announced by Shelley Ross, Senior Executive Producer of the broadcast. The appointment is effective immediately.
“Laila has one of the most unique skill sets that I’ve come across in broadcast news.” says Ross. “She has been a dedicated educator and author in areas of heath and fitness. She has a spiritual side, while being a fearless competitor. She's a great addition to the THE EARLY SHOW team.”
Before joining CBS News, Ali made it to the final round of the fourth season of ABC's, "Dancing with the Stars" (2007). She authored a motivational book for young women titled "Reach!" (Hyperion, 2003). Ali has also appeared in cooking segments on the Food Network’s “Emeril” and “Rachael Ray,” with recipes geared towards a healthy, active lifestyle.
She serves as co-host of "American Gladiators," which premiered on NBC in January 2008, and will host the upcoming Nickelodeon broadcast, “The N’s Student Body,” which follows a group of teens as they attempt to change their lives through diet, exercise, volunteer work and academics.
Ali, the daughter of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, made her professional boxing debut in 1999. She is the current undefeated Super Middleweight Boxing Champion of the world with a 24-0 record and 21 knockouts.
Ali was born in Miami, Fla. She was graduated from Santa Monica College with a degree in business management. Ali and her husband, former NFL star Curtis Conway, live in Los Angeles.
SCHEDULE:
Thursday, January 10 at 8am ET - Laila makes her "Early Show" Premiere!!
