Charlie Kirk established a powerful presence in conservative media. The proud college dropout created an empire while building his net worth, proving that he didn’t need a degree to become a popular right-wing voice — a reputation he upheld until his death. Kirk was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University in September 2025, and a manhunt for the person of interest immediately began.

Amid Kirk’s violent death and the news surrounding his life and legacy, learn about his background, platform and career below.

What Did Charlie Kirk Do for Work? How He Made a Living

Kirk was a published author, radio host, nonprofit organization founder and political activist. He is best known as the founder of Turning Point USA, which advocates for conservatism on college campuses. Once he established himself as a powerful right-wing voice, Kirk became a radio host for his show, “The Charlie Kirk Show,” on Salem Media’s “The Answer” channel — a position he held until his death.

Over time, Kirk also published multiple books, including Campus Battlefield: How Conservatives Can WIN the Battle on Campus and Why It Matters, The MAGA Doctrine: The Only Ideas That Will Win the Future, The College Scam: How America’s Universities Are Bankrupting and Brainwashing Away the Future of America’s Youth and Right Wing Revolution: How to Beat the Woke and Save the West.

How Much Was Charlie Kirk Worth?

Kirk’s net worth has not been verified, but multiple outlets have estimated it to be around $12 million.

Where Did Charlie Kirk Live?

Kirk mainly grew up in the Prospect Heights suburb of Illinois. By the time he reached political stardom, Kirk kept his residence with his wife and children away from the public eye. Therefore, it’s unclear where he and his family lived before he died.

How Did Charlie Kirk Make His Fortune?

Kirk steadily increased his income over time thanks to his fame. With an Instagram following of more than 9 million at the time of his death, the Illinois native’s voice became a force in right-wing media. The Turning Point USA founder started out with a $27,000 annual salary, per multiple outlets. By 2021, Kirk expanded that to around $407,000, per Value Walk via Penn Live.

Who Are Charlie Kirk’s Parents? Inside His Childhood

Kirk kept his parents‘ names out of the spotlight. His father was as an architect for a firm that designed Trump Tower in New York City, per NBC News and People. Kirk’s mother worked as a mental health counselor, according to NBC News and The Guardian.

Who Is Charlie Kirk’s Wife?

Kirk was married to his wife, Erika Frantzve, from 2021 until he died in 2025. She is a former Miss USA Arizona who went on to become a podcaster and founder of various nonprofits, including Every Life Is Worthy.

Did Charlie Kirk Have Children With His Wife?

Yes, Kirk is survived by his two children, a son and a daughter.