Birth & Early Life
Leeann Velez Tweeden was born on June 13, 1973, in Manassas, Virginia. The daughter of Bill and Catherine Tweeden—her father a retired Air Force chief mechanic—she is partly of Filipino descent on her mother’s side. After graduating from Osbourn Park High School in 1991, Leeann moved to Hollywood to launch a modeling career .
Breakthrough in Modeling & Media
1992: While working at Hooters in Colorado Springs, she won the Venus International Model Search—beginning her rise in modeling . She appeared in the Hooters calendars (1993–94), Frederick’s of Hollywood campaigns, and landed a spot on Fitness Beach in 1996 . Cover features followed: August 1996 Playboy (non-nude), and December 2011 Playboy (nude), plus the final U.S. FHM issue in 2007 .
Rise in Broadcasting & Television
Fox Sports Networks (2001–2007): Co-hosted Bluetorch TV and worked as a correspondent on The Best Damn Sports Show Period . 2008: Became the third hostess of NBC’s late-night Poker After Dark . Made guest appearances on Hannity (2011–12), Red Eye w/ Greg Gutfeld, Fox Sports West Angels baseball coverage, and UFC Tonight .
Radio Career & Current Role
2017: Joined KABC 790 AM in Los Angeles as news anchor for McIntyre in the Morning . 2019–Present: Co-hosts Dr. Drew Midday Live with Dr. Drew Pinsky weekdays (noon–3 pm) on KABC in Los Angeles and KGO 810 in San Francisco .
Personal Life & USO Work
Married Chris Dougherty (California Air National Guard pilot) in 2010; they have two children, Kane and Kaia . Since 2002, participated in 16 USO tours, visiting Afghanistan and Iraq to support deployed troops .
Notable Advocacy: Al Franken Allegations
In November 2017, Tweeden went public alleging that Senator Al Franken forcibly kissed and groped her during a 2006 USO tour rehearsal. The episode had been part of a comedy skit, and a photograph captured Franken appearing to grope her while asleep. Franken acknowledged and apologized, later resigning in early 2018 .
Why She Stands Out Today
For over three decades, Leeann has successfully woven together modeling, television, and radio careers. As co-host of a major daytime talk show, she brings wit, insight, and lightheartedness to Dr. Drew Midday Live, earning praise for her authentic on-air presence . Her USO service and willingness to speak out on sensitive issues reflect her dedication to both community and principles.
Leeann Tweeden remains a multifaceted and prominent voice—from airwaves to advocacy. If you’d like more context on her media moments, USO experiences, or updates on her current work, just let me know!
