Gretchen Carlson: A Trailblazing Journalist and Advocate for Change

A Familiar Face on Television and a Force for Good

Gretchen Carlson is a renowned American television journalist, writer, and personality, best known for her work as a anchor and correspondent on CBS and Fox News. She is also recognized for her courageous stand against sexual harassment, becoming one of the first high-profile cases of the #MeToo movement.

Early Life and Education

Born on June 21, 1966, in Minnesota, Carlson was a talented youth violinist who competed in various music contests. She later became a beauty pageant contestant, winning Miss Minnesota in 1988 and subsequently becoming Miss America in 1989. Carlson graduated from Stanford University in 1990.

Rise to Television Fame

Carlson's television career began as a anchor for several local TV stations in Virginia, Ohio, and Texas. She eventually became a national correspondent and anchor on CBS, hosting the Saturday edition of The Early Show from 2002 to 2005. She then moved to Fox News, where she co-hosted the morning show Fox & Friends from 2005 to 2013, and later hosted her own show, The Real Story with Gretchen Carlson, from 2013 to 2016.

A Brave Stand Against Sexual Harassment

In July 2016, Carlson filed a lawsuit against Fox News chairman and CEO Roger Ailes, accusing him of sexual harassment. Her courageous stand inspired dozens of other women to come forward with similar accusations, leading to Ailes' resignation. In September 2016, Carlson and 21st Century Fox settled the lawsuit for $20 million, with a public apology.

A Champion for Change

Carlson has since become a vocal advocate for women's rights and a leader in the fight against sexual harassment. In 2019, she co-founded Lift Our Voices, an organization dedicated to banning nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) and forced arbitration clauses in employment agreements.

Legislative Victories

Carlson's advocacy has led to significant legislative victories, including the passage of the Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act in 2022, which excludes sexual assault and sexual harassment complaints from arbitration clauses. She has also championed the Speak Out Act, which was signed into law in December 2022.

Awards and Honors

• Miss Minnesota 1988
• Miss America 1989
• Stanford University graduate, 1990

Personal Life and Milestones

Carlson has been married to Casey Close, a sports agent, since 1997. She served as the chairwoman of the board of directors of the Miss America Organization from 2018 to 2019.

Legacy and Impact

Gretchen Carlson's courageous stand against sexual harassment has inspired countless women to speak out against their perpetrators. Her advocacy has led to significant legislative changes, making it easier for victims to seek justice. As a trailblazing journalist and advocate for change, Carlson continues to inspire and empower women across the globe.