Darren Sweeney on Weathering Life, Love, a Second Act, and Living Authentically

Darren Sweeney on Weathering Life, Love, a Second Act, and Living Authentically

To many in Connecticut, Darren Sweeney has long been more than a meteorologist. As a respected voice on NBC Connecticut for many years, and WFSB prior to that, he has helped guide viewers through everything from snowstorms to spring sunshine—always with warmth, clarity, and a deep connection to the community he grew up in. But while Darren is no longer full time on the green screen, his presence is still as strong as ever—not only as a tenured professor at Central Connecticut State University but as someone who has embraced his full identity and inspired others to do the same.

Coming Out in the Public Eye

As a public figure in local news, coming out as gay meant stepping into the somewhat unknown. “It wasn’t just about personal acceptance,” he says. “It was also about wondering how others—bosses, colleagues, viewers, even strangers—would respond.”
What he found was unexpected: “I was met with so much love. Not just tolerance, but genuine support. It was humbling.”
That support began at home. “I’ve always had the unwavering love of my family, which I don’t take for granted,” Darren says. “I know many in the LGBTQ+ community don’t have that foundation. That’s why visibility matters. If I can be someone they see living happily and authentically, maybe it makes their path a little easier.”

A New Year’s Wedding with a Heartfelt Tribute

On New Year’s Eve, Darren married his longtime partner of nearly 20 years, Dan Urlage, in a huge celebration that brought together friends, TV colleagues, local public figures, and family. The evening was filled with surprises like pink ponies (not kidding), lots of emotion, an incredible live band and lots of dancing, and a powerful tribute to someone whose presence was deeply felt—his late mother, Patricia.
“Everything about that night was a reflection of love—but most specifically, I wanted to honor my mom,” Darren shares. “She was my biggest fan, my rock, and my fiercest advocate. Though she passed years ago, she was there, I carried her with me down the aisle.”
The couple thoughtfully wove Patricia’s memory into the ceremony and celebration, reminding everyone that love—like weather—can be both unpredictable and deeply beautiful.

Educator and Mentor

Darren continues shaping lives as he always has on camera, but in the classroom, too. At Central Connecticut State University, he teaches journalism and media studies to the next generation of communicators. His approach to teaching is hands-on and heart-forward.
“I want students—especially those who might be questioning where they fit—to know there is room for everyone in this industry,” Darren says. “There’s space to be both successful and authentic.”
For LGBTQ+ students in particular, Darren’s visibility and mentorship have been invaluable. He both teaches skills and models what it means to lead with integrity and pride.

From Storms to Sunshine

Darren’s story is not about a single moment of revelation. It’s about the quiet, consistent courage of living truthfully and finding happiness. It’s about letting go of fear, embracing love, and honoring where you’ve come from as you build what’s next.
“I’ve spent a lot of time helping people prepare for storms,” he says with a smile. “Now, I get to wake up every day in the life I once only dreamed of. That’s the forecast I’m most proud of.”

A New Chapter: Real Estate with Heart

And speaking of building what’s next—Darren recently added another title to his ever-evolving resume: licensed realtor. He’s helping people find not just a house but a true sense of home, Darren approaches real estate with the same heart and integrity that have defined his entire career.
“I’ve always been passionate about where people live and how they live,” he says. “Being able to help someone find a place where they can feel safe, grounded, and joyful. It’s incredibly fulfilling.”
Whether in the classroom, in the community, or now showing homes across Connecticut, Darren’s forecast remains the same: authenticity, kindness, and connection are always in season.

– Kerri-Lee Mayland