Avery Haines: Husband, Biography, Children, Career, Net Worth & More
Everything You Need to Know About Avery Haines’ Life On and Off Screen

Avery Haines is a Canadian investigative journalist and television host known for her work on the long-running documentary series W5 and for producing in-depth journalism on complex global issues.
In this article, we delve into her biography, age, career highlights, children, partner/spouse, and estimated net worth.
Quick Facts About Avery Haines
● Full Name: Avery Hayward Haines
● Date of Birth: November 28, 1966
● Age: 58 years
● Nationality: Canadian (American-born)
● Profession: Investigative Journalist & TV Host
● Known For: W5 (CTV)
● Spouse/Partner: Dr. Mel Brecknell
● Children: 3
● Estimated Net Worth: US $800,000
Early Life & Biography
Avery Hayward Haines was born on November 28, 1966, in New Mexico, United States. Her family later spent time living in India for several years before she moved back to North America. She is the daughter of poet and librettist Paul Haines and sister to musician Emily Haines (lead singer of the band Metric).
Avery began her journalism career at CFRB radio in Toronto and later transitioned into television reporting and hosting.
Age
Avery Haines is 58 years old (born in 1966).
Career Highlights
● Avery worked at CTV Newsnet as a fill-in anchor in 1999.
● She served as a general reporter for Citytv Toronto and later hosted the health-focused series Health on the Line for five seasons.
● Beginning in 2016, she shifted into producing her own documentaries; among them were investigations in Liberia and with the Iraqi special forces.
● While hosting W5, her investigation episodes have earned major Canadian Screen Awards and other journalism honours.
Awards & Nominations
Avery Haines has earned widespread recognition for her exceptional investigative journalism and storytelling. Over her career, she has received multiple Canadian Screen Awards (CSA) and other industry honors.
● In 2022, she won the Canadian Screen Award for Best Host or Interviewer, News or Information Program or Series for her work on W5.
● She also received CSA nominations in 2020, 2021, and 2023 for outstanding investigative reporting and documentary features.
● Avery’s reporting on global issues—including her investigations in Iraq, Liberia, and Syria—has been lauded for its depth, empathy, and journalistic courage.
● Her work has also been recognized by the Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) for excellence in broadcast journalism.
These accolades highlight Haines’s continued commitment to uncovering stories that matter and her role as one of Canada’s most respected television journalists.
Avery Haines Husband
Avery Haines is currently married to Dr. Mel Brecknell, a medical doctor. The couple were married in April 2016 at Toronto City Hall, a ceremony Haines later shared publicly in connection with her personal reflections on life and love.
Avery Haines was previously married to Lorne Honickman, a Canadian lawyer, broadcaster, and journalist. Honickman is known for his work as a legal analyst and television host on Canadian networks. Although details about their marriage remain private, the two eventually separated but have continued to maintain professional respect for one another.
After their divorce, Avery focused on raising her family and advancing her journalism career, becoming one of the most recognizable investigative reporters in Canadian television.
Children
Avery Haines is a proud mother of three children (two sons and a daughter). The names and full details of her children aren’t broadly publicised.
Net Worth
Her estimated net worth is often cited around US $800,000. Some sources mention higher figures, though they appear less verified. Avery’s income comes from her long-standing career in broadcast journalism, documentary production, and investigative reporting.
Why Avery Haines Stands Out
● She has demonstrated credible investigative journalism under challenging conditions (e.g., embedded reporting in war zones).
● Her transition from general television reporting to documentaries and long-form investigations shows versatility and depth.
● As one of the prominent women in Canadian journalism, she uses her platform for stories of public interest, justice, and human rights.
● Her personal background (having lived abroad, multicultural upbringing, artistic family) adds a rich dimension to her work and lens.
Conclusion
Avery Haines has carved out a distinguished career in Canadian journalism, moving from radio and general reporting into award-winning investigative work and television hosting. Her personal story, professional dedication, and continued relevance in broadcast news make her a figure worth following.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is Avery Haines married?
Yes. Avery Haines is married to Dr. Mel Brecknell. They tied the knot in 2016 in a private ceremony in Toronto. Haines also has three children from a previous relationship.
2. Why has W5 been cancelled?
W5 concluded its run as a weekly television series in March 2024 due to Bell Media budget cutbacks. The brand was relaunched as a W5 investigative unit producing long-form stories for CTV National News and documentary specials.
3. Who is the female investigative journalist in Canada?
Avery Haines is a prominent female investigative journalist in Canada. She is known for her work on W5 and its successor investigative unit, producing in-depth reports on social justice, crime, and health issues.
4. How did Avery Haines start her career?
Avery Haines began her journalism career as a radio reporter at CFRB 1010 in Toronto before moving into television reporting, anchoring, and documentary production, eventually becoming a lead investigative journalist for CTV’s W5



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