Russell Rhodes’s Husband: A Deeper Look at Enrique Crespo and Their Life Together
Russell Rhodes, the beloved morning anchor of FOX 13’s “Good Day Tampa Bay,” has been a familiar face to viewers across Florida for decades. Known for his warm demeanor, professionalism, and dedication to local journalism, Russell is one of the most respected television personalities in the region. Yet while much is known about his broadcasting career, less is publicly documented about the man who shares his personal life—his husband, Enrique Crespo.
Over the years, viewers and fans have developed a growing curiosity about the private life of the ever-charming anchor. Who is the man behind the scenes? What is the story of their relationship? In this article, we explore the life Russell shares with Enrique Crespo, their values, contributions to the community, and how they represent a modern, supportive, and grounded partnership in the public eye.
Who Is Enrique Crespo?
Enrique Crespo is a communications professional and consultant based in Tampa, Florida. He is best known for co-founding and leading Crespo & Associates, a boutique public relations and marketing firm that serves corporate and nonprofit clients across the Tampa Bay area. His firm has earned respect for crafting strategic messages and elevating local campaigns, especially for causes related to diversity, inclusion, and community development.
Enrique’s career trajectory is not in front of the camera like Russell’s, but rather behind the scenes—shaping stories, guiding narratives, and helping organizations communicate authentically. With a strong background in public relations and event planning, he has been involved in numerous high-profile fundraisers, social campaigns, and civic initiatives across the region. His professional work complements Russell’s own passion for storytelling and human interest pieces.
A Life Together: How They Met and Grew
Although Russell and Enrique have kept the early details of their relationship largely private, it is known that the couple has been together for over two decades—a testament to their enduring commitment. Their bond began before same-sex marriage was legalized nationwide, and like many LGBTQ+ couples of their generation, they navigated societal changes together, growing stronger over time.
They married in 2014 following the legalization of same-sex marriage in Florida. It was a quiet celebration, shared with close friends and family. Russell later mentioned the significance of that moment in a brief televised acknowledgment, noting how meaningful it was to be able to share his life legally and publicly with the person he loved most.
Home Life in Tampa Bay
Russell and Enrique reside in Tampa, where they live a full but grounded life. Their home is shared with their two cherished French Bulldogs, Coco and Josephine, who often make appearances in Russell’s social media posts. The dogs are more than pets—they’re family, and Russell frequently jokes that Coco and Josephine rule the house with equal parts sass and snuggles.
The couple enjoys spending quiet weekends at home, cooking, gardening, or taking day trips to nearby beaches and Florida towns. Their shared love for animals, arts, and culture has helped build a household that’s equal parts serene retreat and community hub. Friends describe their home as warm, welcoming, and full of joy—a reflection of their personalities.
Balancing Public and Private
Despite Russell’s very public role, both he and Enrique are known for keeping their personal life out of the media spotlight. Russell has always maintained a strong boundary between his professional presence on camera and his personal relationships. Enrique, too, rarely seeks the limelight. This shared commitment to privacy has strengthened their relationship and allowed them to live authentically without the pressure of constant visibility.
That said, they are not hidden—they are simply selective. Russell has occasionally spoken about Enrique during on-air moments, always with affection and gratitude. For Pride Month events, charity galas, and community fundraisers, the couple appears together, supporting causes they care about while still maintaining their comfort level with public exposure.
Community Engagement and Advocacy
Both Russell and Enrique are deeply engaged in their community. Russell’s years of volunteer work and Enrique’s leadership in organizing nonprofit events have made them a well-respected duo in local philanthropic circles. They’ve supported LGBTQ+ youth centers, animal welfare organizations, and HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns, often leveraging their visibility to raise awareness and funding.
Enrique has also been recognized for his efforts in promoting Latinx representation in local media and leadership. As a Latino professional, he often speaks on the importance of inclusive communication, especially in civic spaces. His firm has worked with cultural festivals, Hispanic chambers of commerce, and neighborhood initiatives designed to uplift underrepresented voices.
Relationship Values: Mutual Support and Trust
What makes Russell and Enrique’s relationship resonate so deeply with people who know them is their mutual support and quiet strength. In a career filled with early mornings, high-pressure live broadcasts, and public expectations, Russell has long credited Enrique as his anchor behind the scenes. Friends say their relationship is built on deep trust, shared humor, and an unwavering belief in one another’s purpose.
Enrique, on his part, has always remained a calming presence. He provides counsel when Russell faces career stress, lends a listening ear when stories hit too close to home, and celebrates the highs with genuine pride. The couple has weathered health scares, societal changes, and the ever-shifting media landscape—but they’ve done it as a team.
LGBTQ+ Representation in Broadcast Journalism
As one of the few openly gay anchors in his region, Russell Rhodes plays an important role in LGBTQ+ visibility in mainstream media. His authenticity on screen and openness about his marriage challenge outdated norms and offer viewers a more inclusive view of the world. In many ways, Enrique’s quiet presence reinforces this visibility—demonstrating that successful, loving LGBTQ+ partnerships exist at the core of every community.
Their visibility, though not loud or headline-seeking, contributes to a larger cultural shift. For young viewers, aspiring journalists, and LGBTQ+ individuals navigating identity in public-facing roles, Russell and Enrique represent stability, dignity, and a future full of possibility.
Conclusion
Russell Rhodes and Enrique Crespo embody a modern love story—one shaped by commitment, mutual growth, shared values, and a genuine affection that stands the test of time. While their lives are touched by fame and public service, they remain grounded in what truly matters: loyalty, laughter, and love. As Russell continues to brighten Tampa Bay’s mornings, Enrique remains the quiet force behind the scenes—proving that some of the most influential partnerships are the ones built in private, sustained by trust, and strengthened by time.
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