Sharyl Attkisson stands as one of America’s most influential and fearless investigative journalists, celebrated for her uncompromising pursuit of truth and government accountability. Over a career spanning four decades, she has built an impressive legacy through award-winning reporting, bestselling books, and her long-running program, Full Measure with Sharyl Attkisson. Her journey reflects determination, independence, and resilience—qualities that define her remarkable lifestyle, professional identity, and success story.
Quick Bio
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sharyl Thompson Attkisson |
| Birth Date | January 26, 1961 |
| Age (2026) | 65 years old |
| Birthplace | Sarasota, Florida |
| Height | 5 ft 8 in (173 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 60–62 kg |
| Profession | Investigative Journalist, Author, Host |
| Known For | Full Measure, CBS News, CNN |
| Net Worth (2026) | $3–5 million |
| Ethnicity | White American |
| Nationality | American |
| Spouse | James Attkisson |
| Children | 1 daughter |
| Awards | 5 Emmy Awards, Edward R. Murrow Award |
Early Background and Childhood Foundations
Sharyl Attkisson’s story begins on January 26, 1961, in Sarasota, Florida, where she grew up in a large blended household of seven siblings. Her upbringing was shaped by a lawyer father and an orthopedic-surgeon stepfather, exposing her early to structured thinking, discipline, and a deep appreciation for truth and accountability. These early experiences fueled the curiosity that would later define her journalistic success.
She attended Wilkinson Elementary and Riverview High School, where teachers recognized her precision with language, her detail-driven writing style, and her natural leadership. Long before the world knew her name, Attkisson was already developing the traits that would shape her career — persistence, fearlessness, and a drive to challenge narratives rather than accept them unquestioningly.
Education and Journalism Training at the University of Florida
Attkisson’s formal journey into journalism took shape at the University of Florida’s College of Journalism and Communications, where she graduated in 1982 with a degree in broadcast journalism. During her college years, she worked at WUFT-TV, the PBS station in Gainesville, and at WRUF radio. These roles taught her how to interview under pressure, build stories from the ground up, and understand the responsibility of reporting.
Her academic excellence earned her a place on the University of Florida Journalism College Advisory Council, eventually serving as chair in 1996. In 1997, she received the Alumnae of Outstanding Achievement Award, proving she was already on the road to industry recognition.
Early Career and First Breakthroughs in Local News
After college, Attkisson joined WUFT-TV in Gainesville as a reporter in 1982. Her straightforward reporting style and dedication quickly earned her promotions. She moved to WTVX-TV in Fort Pierce and West Palm Beach, where she worked from 1982 to 1985 as an anchor and reporter.
From there, she joined WBNS-TV in Columbus, Ohio (1985–1986), followed by a four-year position at WTVT in Tampa (1986–1990). These early roles sharpened her investigative instincts and exposed her to the complex world of politics, public spending, and government accountability — areas that would soon become her professional signature.
CNN Years and Transition to National Visibility
In 1990, Sharyl Attkisson landed her first national platform at CNN, anchoring from 1990 to 1993. This role gave her national visibility and broadened her reporting reach. She covered breaking news, live political events, and large-scale government stories — all experiences that built her credibility in the competitive world of Washington, D.C. journalism.
Her poise, composure under pressure, and clear delivery helped her transition seamlessly to the role that would define the next two decades of her life.
Joining CBS News: A Defining Chapter in Her Success Story
Attkisson joined CBS News in 1993 as a space and science correspondent before transitioning to investigative reporting. Her position at CBS placed her at the center of some of the most important political and national stories of the 1990s and 2000s.
She became a substitute anchor for CBS Evening News and hosted the PBS medical program “HealthWeek” from 1996 to 2001. But it was her investigative work that earned her widespread respect. Attkisson’s willingness to scrutinize powerful individuals and institutions made her one of the most recognized investigative journalists of her era.
Major Investigations and Award-Winning Work
Over her career at CBS News, Attkisson became known for high-stakes investigations that demanded courage and persistence. Among her most notable work:
- Fast and Furious gun-walking scandal
Her reporting earned an Emmy and the prestigious Edward R. Murrow Award. - TARP bank bailout
Her coverage in 2009 won an Emmy for exposing government waste and lack of transparency. - American Red Cross investigation
She earned another Emmy for exposing organizational inefficiencies. - Benghazi attacks
She provided early reporting and analysis on government decisions in the aftermath of the 2012 attack. - Hillary Clinton’s Bosnia trip
Her reporting refuted the widely publicized claim of “sniper fire,” earning national attention.
These investigations positioned her as a fearless journalist who refused to bend to political pressure. They also helped shape her public image as a truth-seeker, a trait that would heavily influence her later career.
Controversial Departure From CBS News
In 2014, after 21 years, Attkisson resigned from CBS News. She publicly cited increasing editorial interference, lack of support for investigative pieces critical of the Obama administration, and concerns about institutional bias. Her departure sparked debates across the media landscape.
Attkisson became a national symbol for discussions on journalistic independence, press freedom, and the blurring lines between politics and media. This period of controversy also significantly shaped her public success narrative — transforming her from an internal newsroom powerhouse into a national voice for media accountability.
The Government Surveillance Allegations and Lawsuit
A major turning point came when Attkisson alleged that federal agents had illegally accessed her home computers during her time at CBS. She pursued legal action for several years, claiming surveillance and digital intrusion. Although her lawsuits were ultimately dismissed in 2021, the incident amplified national debates about government overreach, privacy, and press freedom.
It also reinforced her image as a journalist unafraid to take on institutions far larger than herself — a core part of her success reputation.
Launching Full Measure With Sharyl Attkisson
In October 2015, Attkisson debuted her syndicated investigative program Full Measure with Sharyl Attkisson, produced by Sinclair Broadcast Group. As of late 2025, the show entered its 11th season, a testament to its popularity and impact.
The show emphasizes government accountability, underreported stories, and what Attkisson describes as “untouchable topics.” In March 2025, she conducted a high-profile interview with Donald Trump, demonstrating the program’s continued relevance in political discourse.
Full Measure’s format allows Attkisson full editorial independence, aligning perfectly with her long-established values. It also showcases the lifestyle she thrives in — one built on autonomy, investigative depth, and fearless reporting.
Books, Authorship, and Continued Influence
Attkisson is also a celebrated author, with several New York Times bestsellers including:
- Stonewalled (2014)
- The Smear (2017)
- Slanted (2020)
- Follow the Science (recent release)
These works dissect media systems, political narratives, misinformation campaigns, and censorship. Her books have become widely referenced in discussions surrounding media bias, federal agencies, and public trust.
Writing has become a major part of her success and contributes significantly to her net worth.
Podcasting and New Media Expansion
Attkisson hosts The Sharyl Attkisson Podcast, with more than 300 episodes covering topics such as:
- Election integrity
- Government spending
- Medical side effects
- Media manipulation
She also produces Full Measure After Hours, expanding her reach into the digital social media space.
Her pivot into podcasts demonstrates how well she adapts to evolving media landscapes — an essential skill for long-term success in journalism.
Lifestyle, Personality, and Public Image
Behind the public persona, Attkisson maintains a disciplined and structured lifestyle, shaped by her background in martial arts. She is a fifth-degree black belt master in taekwondo, a rare distinction that reflects her mental rigor and commitment.
Her lifestyle is centered around fitness, intellectual growth, and independence. Despite her national visibility, she keeps her personal life low-key, preferring privacy over spotlight. This balance between public career and grounded personal life is a cornerstone of her longevity.
Family Life, Marriage, and Family Tree Overview
Attkisson married James Attkisson, a sheriff’s deputy, in 1984. Together they have one daughter, forming a close and supportive family tree that has stood by her through every major chapter of her journey.
Although she leads a public career, her family remains largely private — a deliberate choice to protect them from the volatile world of national journalism. Her daughter has occasionally been referenced in interviews but maintains a life outside the media.
The strength of her family tree also plays into her grounded lifestyle, allowing her to remain focused amid public controversies and professional pressures.
Net Worth, Financial Growth, and Income Sources
As of 2026, Sharyl Attkisson’s estimated net worth ranges between $3 million and $5 million.
Her income sources include:
- Television hosting (Full Measure)
- Book royalties from multiple bestsellers
- Paid speaking engagements
- Podcast revenue
- Media consulting
- Appearances and interviews
Her decades-long career at major networks like CBS and CNN also contributed significantly to her financial stability.
Attkisson’s net worth reflects consistent output, adaptability, and her ability to remain relevant in a rapidly changing media world. Her financial success has never relied on sensationalism but on the quality and impact of her work.
Awards, Honors, and Professional Recognition
Attkisson’s work has earned her:
- Five Emmy Awards
- Edward R. Murrow Awards
- Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE) honors
- National journalism recognition
She also founded the ION Awards and supports investigative journalism students at the University of Florida. Her contributions extend beyond reporting — she is actively shaping the next generation of journalists.
Legacy and Long-Term Impact
Sharyl Attkisson’s legacy is defined by her fierce independence, investigative courage, and refusal to compromise truth for comfort. In an era of polarized media, she stands out as a voice calling for transparency and accountability.
Her success story is one of resilience, intellectual integrity, and lifelong dedication to uncovering facts, even when they are unpopular. Her influence now extends across television, books, academia, podcasting, and social media — making her one of the most enduring figures in American investigative journalism.
Conclusion
Sharyl Attkisson’s story is one of conviction, courage, and unwavering dedication to independent journalism. Her career—from local newsrooms to the national spotlight—shows how integrity and resilience can shape a powerful legacy in an era where truth is often contested. Through Full Measure, her bestselling books, and her growing social media presence, she continues to challenge narratives, inspire new journalists, and elevate conversations about transparency and accountability. Her disciplined lifestyle, supportive family tree, and meaningful professional impact all contribute to a well-earned success story. As she moves further into the 2026 landscape, Sharyl Attkisson remains a defining voice in American journalism.
FAQs
What is Sharyl Attkisson’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is between $3 million and $5 million, earned from journalism, books, podcasts, and speaking.
What is Sharyl Attkisson known for?
She is best known for investigative reporting, her books, and hosting Full Measure.
How old is Sharyl Attkisson?
She is 65 years old as of 2026.
Who is Sharyl Attkisson’s husband?
She is married to James Attkisson, a longtime law-enforcement officer.
What awards has she won?
She has earned five Emmy Awards, Edward R. Murrow Awards, and multiple national journalism recognitions.
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