Belinda Jensen Bids Farewell to KARE 11 With Surprise Fashion Show

Belinda Jensen, the longtime chief meteorologist and Saturday anchor for KARE 11, marked the conclusion of her regular tenure with a celebratory fashion show during her final Saturday broadcast on May 2, 2026.

The event, held in Edina, Minnesota, served as a farewell to the broadcast veteran who has spent more than three decades with the NBC affiliate. The festivities featured three surprise models, all former co-workers, who showcased pieces from Jensen’s extensive professional wardrobe.

A Legacy of Local Broadcasting

Jensen’s career at KARE 11 began as an intern before she officially appeared on air on September 7, 1993. Joining the station at 25 years old, she initially took over as the weekend meteorologist and Saturday morning co-host.

Over the next 33 years, Jensen expanded her role within the station, eventually ascending to chief meteorologist. Beyond the weather desk, she became a fixture of Minnesota morning television, contributing to various franchises and segments.

One of her most enduring contributions was the creation of Grow With KARE, a gardening franchise developed alongside co-host Bobby Jensen. The segment became one of the longest-running and most popular sponsored franchises in the history of local news, providing gardening advice to viewers for more than 30 years.

Jensen also spent 10 years on Minnesota Bound, where she reported on diverse topics ranging from deep-sea turtle conservation in Hawaii to mountain biking in Moab and skiing in Beaver Creek.

Philanthropy and Public Connection

Known for her distinctive wardrobe, Jensen used her retirement transition to benefit the community. She auctioned off her collection of professional coats, which she had worn throughout the seasons while delivering forecasts at 5, 6, and 10 p.m.

The auction was held to raise funds for the ICA food shelf. According to reporting from KARE 11, the initiative raised $25,000 for the organization.

KARE 11 has been more than a workplace; it has been family. To the loyal viewers who welcomed me into their homes each day, thank you for your trust, loyalty and kindness, and for allowing me to be part of your lives.

Belinda Jensen

Colleagues have noted Jensen’s ability to blend scientific expertise with a personable on-air presence. Longtime colleague Randy Shaver described her as having an authenticity that radiates, noting that her on-air persona is a direct reflection of her personality behind the scenes.

Future Outlook

While May 2, 2026, marked the end of her regular daily and weekly anchoring duties, Jensen will not disappear entirely from the KARE 11 airwaves. The station has announced that she is scheduled to return as a contributor on Saturday mornings in the fall of 2026.