FOX 26 evening anchor Caroline Collins is more than just a face on the news. She’s a rising star who’s blended traditional journalism with 21st-century charisma, building a massive social media empire while staying grounded in her small-town roots.
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Whether she’s delivering breaking news, sharing beauty tips between broadcasts, or taste-testing Texas BBQ, Collins is redefining what it means to be a modern TV journalist.

From Local Stations to Prime Time in Houston

Originally from West Middlesex, Pennsylvania, Collins always dreamed of becoming a news anchor. Inspired by Oprah and armed with a Barbie camcorder, she was interviewing imaginary celebrities in her childhood bedroom long before she made it to prime time.

She studied broadcasting and earned a master’s in communication technology from Point Park University. There she also starred on the women’s golf team thanks to a full-ride scholarship. Her journalism journey took her from Erie to Youngstown to Fresno, eventually landing her at FOX 26 Houston in 2022. And she hasn’t looked back.

Today, she anchors the evening news in one of America’s most diverse cities. And she’s quickly become a fan favorite. “Houston is so wonderful,” she said shortly after moving. “I’ve never met nicer people.”

A News Anchor for the TikTok Era

Collins isn’t just reaching viewers on TV, she’s going viral daily.

Known on TikTok as @CarolineOnTV, she’s built a following of more than 1.6 million. Her content is a mix of “get ready with me” routines, behind-the-scenes newsroom moments, and authentic personality. It keeps fans coming back for more.

It all started with salad videos at her desk. “People want to see what you do outside the anchor chair,” she said. “So I gave them that.” The gamble paid off. Her playful-yet-professional style resonated with viewers, especially younger audiences who now see her as both a reporter and a relatable internet personality.

Even her FOX 26 coworkers have joined the fun. Anchors like Rashi Vats and Matthew Seedorff hopped on TikTok thanks to Collins’ influence.

Engagement at Pebble Beach: “The Best Day of My Life”

And now? She’s adding fiancée to her list of titles.

In March 2025, Caroline announced her engagement to longtime boyfriend Conner Shayesteh. It’s a relationship she had kept mostly private — until now. The proposal took place at Pebble Beach Golf Links in California, a dream location that combined her love for golf with the perfect romantic surprise.

“The way Conner did everything was so sweet… It was so us,” she said. “I got to golf and now I get to get fancy. That’s my personality.”

Her parents were there to witness the big moment, and she later shared engagement photos and a GRWM TikTok that gave fans an intimate look at the special day. “I’m so thankful I could share it with our families,” she said.

The couple had been dating long-distance before her move to Houston, and the engagement marks a new chapter, both personally and professionally, for Collins.

Houston Life, One Bite at a Time

When she’s not on-air or online, Collins is diving into Houston culture, sometimes literally. Her viral Whataburger review stirred up a lighthearted stir after she admitted to ordering it wrong (don’t worry, she promised a follow-up with spicy ketchup and a patty melt).

From Buc-ee’s to BBQ and her first rodeo, she’s embracing it all. “I want to experience everything,” she said. And Houston’s been welcoming her with open arms — even if she’s still figuring out how to pronounce kolaches.

A Star Still Rising

With a hit news slot, a booming TikTok presence, and a ring on her finger, Caroline Collins is proving that today’s anchors can do it all, and go viral while doing it.