Christiane Amanpour Biography: Age, Height, Husband, Son, CNN Career, and Net Worth 2025
Christiane Amanpour stands as one of the most respected and influential journalists of her generation. Renowned for her fearless international reporting and authoritative presence on CNN, Amanpour is celebrated for her in-depth coverage of world affairs, impactful interviews, and commitment to journalistic integrity. Based in London and New York, her work has shaped global perspectives on conflict, politics, and human rights.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Christiane Maria Heideh Amanpour |
| Nickname | Christiane |
| Profession | Journalist, Television Host, Chief International Anchor |
| Birth Date | January 12, 1958 |
| Age | 67 years (as of October 2025) |
| Birth Place | London, England, United Kingdom |
| Nationality | British-Iranian |
| Famous For | International Reporting, War Correspondence |
| Known For | CNN’s “Amanpour”, Global Affairs Coverage |
| Ethnicity | Iranian-British |
| Zodiac Sign | Capricorn |
| Height & Weight | 5 ft 7 in (170 cm), approx. 128 lbs (58 kg) |
| Hair Color | Dark Brown |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Education | University of Rhode Island (BA in Journalism) |
| Religion | Christian (Anglican) |
| Marital Status/Spouse | Divorced / James Rubin |
| Children | 1 (Darius John Rubin) |
| Relatives | Mahmoud Amanpour (father), Patricia Amanpour (mother) |
| Hobbies | Travel, Reading, Advocacy for Press Freedom |
| Employer/Organization | CNN, PBS |
| Years Active | 1983–present |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $18 million (2025 estimate) |
Early Life & Education
Christiane Amanpour was born on January 12, 1958, in London, England, to an Iranian father and British mother. She spent her early childhood in Tehran, Iran, where her father ran a prosperous airline business. Amanpour attended a Catholic girls’ school in Tehran before the family moved to England at the onset of the Iranian Revolution. She later enrolled at New Hall School, a private Catholic school in Essex, and went on to pursue higher education in the United States.
She graduated summa cum laude from the University of Rhode Island with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. During her time at university, Amanpour developed a keen interest in broadcast journalism, setting the stage for her future career.
Career Journey
Beginnings in Journalism
Christiane Amanpour began her journalism career at CNN in 1983 as an entry-level assistant on the international assignment desk. Her determination and skill quickly propelled her into reporting roles.
Breakthrough and War Correspondence
- Rose to prominence during the Gulf War in 1990-91, delivering live reports from Baghdad.
- Covered major international crises including the Bosnian War, Rwandan Genocide, and conflicts in the Middle East, Africa, and the Balkans.
- Known for her fearless approach, Amanpour’s frontline reporting set a new standard for international journalism.
Anchor and Host
- Became the Chief International Anchor for CNN.
- Launched and hosted the global affairs program “Amanpour” on CNN International and PBS.
- Served as Global Affairs Anchor for ABC News from 2010 to 2012.
Recent Activity & Current Position
- Continues to anchor “Amanpour” on CNN and PBS, conducting high-profile interviews with world leaders and influencers.
- Advocates for press freedom and gender equality in journalism.
- Regularly appears as a guest commentator on international news panels.
Career Highlights
- Reported from over 60 countries.
- Interviewed numerous global leaders, including Nelson Mandela, Hillary Clinton, Emmanuel Macron, and more.
- Recognized for her calm under pressure and incisive questioning style.
Personal Life
Amanpour married James Rubin, a former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State and journalist, in 1998. The couple welcomed their son, Darius John Rubin, in 2000. After two decades together, Amanpour and Rubin amicably divorced in 2018 but remain dedicated co-parents to their son.
Outside of journalism, Amanpour is passionate about human rights, press freedom, and women’s empowerment. She enjoys reading, traveling, and participating in global advocacy initiatives. Amanpour is also known for her philanthropic support of education and media literacy projects worldwide.
Awards & Achievements
- 12 News & Documentary Emmy Awards
- 4 Peabody Awards
- Edward R. Murrow Award for Distinguished Achievement in Broadcast Journalism
- Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)
- Inducted into the Cable Hall of Fame
- Honorary degrees from several leading universities
Physical Statistics
- Height: 5 ft 7 in (170 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 128 lbs (58 kg)
- Body Measurements: Not publicly disclosed
- Eye Color: Brown
- Hair Color: Dark Brown
- Shoe Size: 8 (US) (approximate)
- Sexuality: Straight
Quotes
- “Truthful, not neutral, is what journalism must be.”
- “I have always believed that journalism is a force for progress and change.”
- “The world needs credible, fearless reporting more than ever.”
Controversies
While Amanpour is widely respected, she has occasionally faced criticism for her frank interviewing style and strong opinions on international affairs. Some critics have accused her of bias in certain geopolitical conflicts, but she has consistently defended her commitment to factual, balanced reporting. In 2020, her comparison of contemporary political events to historic atrocities sparked debate, but she later clarified her remarks, emphasizing the importance of historical context in journalism.
Favorites
- Favorite Book: “The Grapes of Wrath” by John Steinbeck
- Favorite Travel Destination: Paris, France
- Favorite Cuisine: Persian and French
- Favorite Journalist: Christiane Amanpour admires Christiane Amanpour’s own mentors like Peter Jennings and Barbara Walters.
Salary & Net Worth
As of 2025, Christiane Amanpour’s net worth is estimated at $18 million. Her annual salary from CNN and PBS is believed to be in the range of $2 million–$3 million, reflecting her status as one of the world’s leading broadcast journalists. Additional income sources include speaking engagements, book royalties, and consulting for international media organizations.
Interesting Facts
- Fluent in English, Persian (Farsi), and conversational French.
- Named UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Freedom of Expression and Journalist Safety.
- Survived dangerous assignments in war zones, including Bosnia, Iraq, and Rwanda.
- One of the first journalists to interview Iranian President Hassan Rouhani after the 2013 elections.
- Advocate for women in media and diversity in journalism.
Social Media Links
Frequently Asked Questions
- How old is Christiane Amanpour in 2025?
Christiane Amanpour is 67 years old as of October 2025. - What is Christiane Amanpour’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth is around $18 million, thanks to her long-standing career at CNN and PBS. - Who is Christiane Amanpour’s husband?
She was married to James Rubin, a former U.S. diplomat, but they divorced in 2018. - Does Christiane Amanpour have children?
Yes, she has one son named Darius John Rubin. - What is Christiane Amanpour known for?
She is known for her fearless international reporting, especially from conflict zones, and her role as Chief International Anchor at CNN. - Where was Christiane Amanpour born?
She was born in London, England, United Kingdom.
Conclusion
Christiane Amanpour has left an indelible mark on global journalism through her unwavering dedication to truth, fearless reporting, and advocacy for press freedom. Her influential career continues to inspire journalists and audiences worldwide. If you found this biography insightful, please share it with others who admire impactful journalism and world affairs.
Sources: CNN, BBC, The Guardian, The New York Times, PBS, University of Rhode Island, UNESCO, Reuters, Associated Press.
