Ed Drantch
About Ed Drantch
Ed Drantch: The Trusted Voice of Buffalo Mornings
If you live in Buffalo, NY, and tune in to morning television, the name Ed Drantch likely rings a familiar bell. An engaging anchor and dedicated investigative journalist, Ed has become a trusted figure for bringing news and transparency to Western New York. Whether he’s helping you start your day on “Good Morning Buffalo” or conducting in-depth investigations, Ed Drantch is a shining example of journalistic integrity and community connection.
The Voice of Mornings
Ed Drantch is the morning anchor for WKBW-TV’s “Good Morning Buffalo” and a member of the station’s I-Team, where he applies his investigative prowess to tackle significant issues. A steady presence on Buffalo’s airwaves since 2014, he has earned viewers’ trust with his approachable demeanor and ability to cover both hard-hitting news and light-hearted moments.
His efforts have not gone unnoticed. Ed is a two-time New York State Regional Emmy award winner. His accolades include coverage of deadly tornadoes that swept through Western New York in 2017 and the race-related protests and their societal impacts during 2020. Beyond anchoring, Ed’s work consistently sparks conversations and brings hidden stories to light.
Investigating for Change
One of Ed’s most notable qualities is his dedication to investigative journalism. He doesn’t just report the news—he investigates it. A prime example of his commitment was his Emmy-nominated exposé on an Erie County Department of Health worker falsifying restaurant inspections, a story that called for accountability and changes in public safety protocols.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ed took viewers behind the doors of an intensive care unit. His work shed light on the strain and resilience of local healthcare workers, putting human faces to the struggles the region endured. These moments of raw reporting connected with viewers, providing insight into how deeply the pandemic affected Buffalo.
A Lifetime of Memorable Stories
Ed’s journalism career has taken him far and wide, but the city of Buffalo holds a special place in his storytelling. Western New Yorkers may remember his integral coverage of Nik Wallenda’s historic 2012 walk across Niagara Falls, which marked an iconic moment for the region.
Ed also reported on the critical 2016 presidential debate between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, showing his range in handling both local and national events with equal care and precision.
Prior to joining WKBW-TV, Ed worked at News 4 WIVB-TV in Buffalo, where he was nominated for a story on race relations. He began his career in Virginia at WHSV-TV and previously worked as an online correspondent for FOX 5 in New York City, where he honed his skills in social media and digital reporting.
Connecting with the Community
Community engagement is at the heart of Ed’s career. Serving on the Board of Directors for GLYS WNY, Ed has been instrumental in improving the lives of LGBTQ+ youth in the region. His work with this organization exemplifies his commitment to using his platform to elevate meaningful causes and create real impact.
Ed also owns a business called Reel Talent, through which he mentors student journalists and guides young professionals starting their careers in smaller media markets. This kind of mentorship showcases his investment in building the next generation of ethical and talented reporters.
Buffalo Proud
Although he grew up on Long Island, Ed Drantch has embraced Buffalo as his home. He often highlights the “Buffalo Strong” spirit, a term that encapsulates the resilience and camaraderie of the community he proudly serves. Ed’s work is a reflection of this spirit, particularly in how he interacts with viewers and profiles stories that matter most to Western New Yorkers.
From the historic blizzards to stories of hope and resilience, Ed’s reporting is woven into the narrative of Buffalo itself. His genuine care for the community shines through every piece he delivers on-air and behind the scenes.
A Familiar Face You Can Trust
Ed Drantch isn’t just a TV personality you wake up with—he’s a Buffalo resident, advocate, and storyteller. Whether breaking down complex issues as an investigative reporter or keeping mornings entertaining and informative, he helps make Buffalo a connected and informed community.