How Old Is Sean Hannity? Sean Hannity is one of the most prominent and polarizing figures in American television, known for his long-running career as a political commentator, author, and talk show host. He has become a household name, particularly as the host of “Hannity” on Fox News, where his sharp commentary and often fiery rhetoric have earned him a dedicated fan base. But just how old is Sean Hannity, and what has shaped his extraordinary career? In this article, we will explore his age, early life, career trajectory, and major milestones that have defined his impact on American media.
Sean Hannity’s Birthdate and Age
Sean Hannity was born on December 30, 1961, in New York City, making him 63 years old as of 2025. Despite his age, Hannity remains one of the most influential voices in American broadcasting, known for his unwavering opinions on politics, media, and culture. His ability to connect with his audience, combined with his assertive commentary, has solidified his place as one of the most watched hosts on cable news.
Early Life and Education
Hannity grew up in the Queens neighborhood of New York City, where he was raised in a working-class Irish Catholic family. His upbringing and environment helped shape his early views on hard work, family values, and politics, which would later become key elements of his on-air persona. After attending St. Pius X Preparatory Seminary for a time, Hannity completed his high school education at Sacred Heart Seminary.
Following high school, Hannity enrolled at University of California, Santa Barbara, but his time there was short-lived. He later transferred to Adelphi University in Garden City, New York, where he pursued a communications degree. While he didn’t graduate with a degree in political science, his interest in politics and media was clearly evident early on.
During his college years, Hannity worked part-time at a radio station, where he started gaining valuable experience in broadcasting. This early exposure to radio would become the foundation for his career in media.
Beginning of a Broadcasting Career
Hannity’s media career began with radio broadcasting in the mid-1980s. He started as a part-time radio host at a small radio station in Santa Barbara, California, before moving on to larger markets. His big break came when he was offered a job at WVNN in Alabama, where he gained recognition for his outspoken conservative views. Hannity’s radio career quickly grew in prominence, and by the early 1990s, he was hosting his own talk radio show.
In 1996, Hannity was offered an opportunity that would change the course of his career: a television contract with Fox News. At the time, Fox News was still in its infancy, but Hannity’s commitment to the station would help it grow into one of the largest and most influential news networks in the country.
Sean Hannity’s Rise at Fox News
In 1996, Sean Hannity became one of the founding figures of Fox News when he joined the network as a co-host for the show “Hannity & Colmes” alongside liberal political commentator Alan Colmes. The show was designed to provide a platform for debate between opposing viewpoints, with Hannity offering conservative opinions and Colmes presenting liberal perspectives.
Although “Hannity & Colmes” was successful, Hannity eventually transitioned into his solo career at Fox News. In 2009, after Colmes left the show, Hannity took on his current role as the host of “Hannity”, a program focused on political commentary, investigative reporting, and interviews with political figures.
His show quickly became one of the highest-rated programs on cable news, consistently drawing millions of viewers. Hannity’s deep alignment with conservative politics and his blunt style of reporting contributed to his growing influence in the media landscape. Through his work at Fox, Hannity built a brand that resonated deeply with right-wing audiences, making him one of the most recognizable political commentators in America.
Major Achievements and Impact
Sean Hannity’s career has been marked by numerous achievements, including the following:
- Consistently High Ratings: “Hannity” remains one of the highest-rated shows on Fox News, with millions of viewers tuning in each night to hear his take on the political landscape. Hannity’s ability to keep his audience engaged with passionate discussions on topics ranging from American politics to global issues has made him one of the most-watched hosts on cable television.
- Influence in Conservative Politics: Over the years, Hannity has become a key figure in conservative politics, using his platform to support right-wing candidates, policies, and ideologies. His show has played a significant role in shaping public discourse on topics like immigration, taxation, healthcare, and foreign policy.
- Author: In addition to his work on television, Hannity has written several best-selling books, including “Let Freedom Ring: Winning the War of Liberty Over Liberalism” and “Live Free or Die: America (and the World) on the Brink”. These books outline his views on American politics, patriotism, and national security.
- Award Recognition: Hannity has received numerous accolades over the years for his work as a journalist and commentator. He has won several Broadcasting Awards and Television Academy Honors and has been named “Talk Radio Host of the Year” multiple times.
- Political Advocacy and Controversy: As a staunch conservative, Hannity has been a strong advocate for several right-wing causes and political candidates, particularly former President Donald Trump. His fervent support of Trump during the 2016 election and his continuous backing of the Trump administration led to significant political influence but also sparked controversy in the media.
Personal Life and Family
Sean Hannity is known for his relatively private personal life. He married Jill Rhodes, a former journalist, in 1993, and the couple had two children together. However, in 2020, Hannity and Rhodes announced their divorce after 26 years of marriage. Hannity has largely kept details of his personal relationships out of the spotlight, but he remains active in various charitable organizations and causes.
Hannity also has a reputation for being a passionate advocate for veterans’ issues, working with numerous organizations to support U.S. military personnel and their families. His support for conservative military policies and his contributions to veteran-related charities have been key parts of his philanthropic work.
The Legacy of Sean Hannity
At 63 years old, Sean Hannity has built a remarkable career in broadcasting. His impact on American media is undeniable—he has influenced political conversations, shaped public opinion, and helped Fox News become a dominant force in cable news. Despite being a polarizing figure, Hannity’s legacy as one of the most successful and influential broadcasters in American history is firmly established.
Whether viewers agree with his views or not, Hannity’s influence on the media landscape has been profound, and his show continues to be a central platform for conservative discourse. As he moves into his 60s, it remains to be seen what new roles and projects Hannity may take on, but one thing is clear: his career is far from over.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sean Hannity, born on December 30, 1961, is 63 years old as of 2025. From his early career in radio to his rise as a key figure at Fox News, Hannity has become one of the most influential figures in American politics and media. His ability to engage audiences and provide passionate commentary has cemented his place as a prominent voice in the media landscape. Whether through his television show, books, or political advocacy, Sean Hannity’s career has shaped the way Americans engage with politics and the media for over two decades.