Lawrence O’Donnell, MSNBC, Biography, Age, Wife, Salary and Net Worth
Lawrence O’Donnell Biography | Wiki
Lawrence O’Donnell is a prominent American political commentator, television anchor, actor, and writer, best known as the host of MSNBC’s nightly news and opinion program, The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell. A seasoned figure in political media, O’Donnell has built a reputation for his sharp analysis, incisive interviews, and bold commentary on American politics.
Before his rise as a television host, O’Donnell made significant contributions to Hollywood and political journalism. He served as a writer and producer for the acclaimed NBC drama The West Wing, where his political expertise helped shape the show’s realistic portrayal of Washington, D.C. He also created and executive produced the short-lived NBC political drama Mister Sterling (2003), further cementing his influence in both entertainment and political discourse.
Lawrence O’Donnell Age and Birthday
As of 2025, Lawrence O’Donnell is 73 years old. He was born on November 7, 1951, in Boston, Massachusetts, USA, and celebrates his birthday annually on that date.
Education
O’Donnell attended Saint Sebastian’s School, a prestigious Catholic preparatory school in Massachusetts, where he graduated in 1970. During his time there, he was an accomplished athlete, serving as captain of the baseball team and playing as a wide receiver on the school’s undefeated football team.
He later enrolled at Harvard College, graduating in 1976 with a degree in Economics. While at Harvard, he contributed to the famed Harvard Lampoon, a humor magazine known for launching the careers of many writers and comedians. In recognition of his contributions to journalism and public discourse, Suffolk University awarded him an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters.
Nationality and Ethnicity
O’Donnell holds American nationality and was born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts. Ethnically, he is of Irish descent and was raised in the Catholic faith, which has influenced his perspectives on social and political issues.
How tall is Lawrence O’Donnell? Height and Measurements
O’Donnell stands at 5 feet 11 inches (1.8 meters), an average height for a man. While he has not publicly disclosed other body measurements, his commanding presence on television reflects his confident and authoritative demeanor.
Family | Parents and Early Life
Born into a working-class Irish-American family, O’Donnell was raised by his father, Lawrence Francis O’Donnell Sr., an attorney, and his mother, Frances Marie O’Donnell, an office manager. His parents instilled in him a strong work ethic and an early interest in politics and law.
Though O’Donnell has not publicly discussed having siblings, his upbringing in Boston’s tight-knit Irish-Catholic community played a significant role in shaping his worldview. His father’s legal career may have influenced his later transition into political analysis and commentary.
Lawrence O’Donnell Wife | Wedding
O’Donnell was previously married to Kathryn Harrold, an actress known for her roles in films like The Pursuit of D.B. Cooper (1981) and TV shows like MacGyver. The couple tied the knot on February 14, 1994 (Valentine’s Day), in an intimate ceremony surrounded by family and friends. They welcomed a daughter, Elizabeth Buckley Harrold, before their marriage ended in 2013 due to personal differences.
In 2011, rumors surfaced that O’Donnell was dating Tamron Hall, then an MSNBC correspondent, though neither party confirmed the relationship. As of now, O’Donnell keeps his personal life private and has not remarried.
Salary
As the host of one of MSNBC’s flagship programs, O’Donnell earns a substantial salary. Reports estimate his annual income at around $250,000 (as of 2025), though this figure may be higher given his long tenure and prominent role at the network.
Lawrence O’Donnell Net Worth
With decades of experience in television, writing, and political commentary, O’Donnell has built a successful career. His estimated net worth is $16 million (as of 2025), accumulated through his MSNBC salary, book deals, and past work in Hollywood.
Lawrence O’Donnell MSNBC News
O’Donnell joined MSNBC in 2009 as a frequent contributor to Morning Joe, where his combative debate style led to several heated on-air exchanges. His sharp analysis caught the network’s attention, and he soon became a regular substitute host for Keith Olbermann’s Countdown, particularly during Olbermann’s absences due to his father’s illness.
On September 27, 2010, O’Donnell launched The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell, taking over the 10 PM ET time slot. Following Keith Olbermann’s abrupt departure from MSNBC in 2011, O’Donnell briefly moved to the 8 PM slot before settling back at 10 PM, where his show remains a staple of MSNBC’s primetime lineup.
Known for his unapologetically progressive stance, O’Donnell’s show features hard-hitting interviews, panel discussions, and monologues on the day’s biggest political stories. His background as a Senate staffer and Hollywood writer gives him a unique perspective, making The Last Word a must-watch for political enthusiasts.
