John Quiñones was born on May 23, 1952, in San Antonio, Texas. Growing up, he was a participant in the federal Upward Bound program, which aimed to help students from disadvantaged backgrounds prepare for college. This early experience sparked his interest in communication and led him to study speech and communication at St. Mary's University in Texas.
After completing his undergraduate studies, Quiñones went on to earn a graduate degree in journalism from Columbia University in New York. It was during his time at Columbia that he honed his skills as a journalist and began to establish himself in the industry.
During the mid-1970s, Quiñones worked for a Houston, Texas radio station called KTRH. This early experience in radio helped him develop his storytelling abilities and laid the foundation for his future success in broadcasting.
Quiñones's big break came when he started hosting the ABC hidden camera program Primetime: What Would You Do? The show, which aired on the network for many years, showcased Quiñones's ability to tackle tough ethical dilemmas and engage with real people in unexpected situations. His work on the show earned him multiple Emmy Awards and solidified his reputation as a talented and empathetic television host.
In addition to his work on Primetime: What Would You Do?, Quiñones has also appeared on various ABC news programs such as Good Morning America, Nightline, and 20/20. He has covered a wide range of topics, from breaking news stories to feature pieces, demonstrating his versatility as a journalist.
Quiñones was married to Nancy Loftus from 1988 until 2009, and together they have three children. In 2010, he married Deanna White. Family has always been an important part of Quiñones's life, and he is grateful for the love and support of his wife and children.
Throughout his career, Quiñones has maintained a commitment to ethical journalism and storytelling that uplifts and empowers others. He believes in using the power of media to shed light on important issues and spark meaningful conversations. His work on What Would You Do? exemplifies this dedication to creating thought-provoking content that makes a positive impact on society.
As a pioneering journalist and television host, John Quiñones has left an indelible mark on the media industry. His dedication to authenticity and compassion sets him apart, and his influence will continue to be felt for years to come. Quiñones's legacy serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling to connect people and inspire change.