Liz Claman has built an impressive reputation as one of Fox Business Network’s most recognizable faces over the past two decades. The Emmy award-winning journalist hosts “The Claman Countdown,” interviewing top business leaders and breaking down complex financial concepts for everyday viewers. But beyond her on-screen success, many people search for details about Liz Claman’s salary, net worth, and personal life.
Recent developments in early 2025 brought unexpected news when reports surfaced about her separation from MSNBC executive Jeff Kepnes after 24 years of marriage. This revelation sparked renewed interest in the financial journalist’s life, career earnings, and current status at Fox Business Network. With over three decades in broadcast journalism, Claman represents a success story built on dedication, expertise, and authentic connection with audiences.
This comprehensive guide explores everything about Liz Claman—from her early beginnings as a production assistant to becoming “the CEO whisperer” known for landing exclusive interviews with billionaires like Warren Buffett and Bill Gates. We’ll examine her current salary range, accumulated net worth, family background, and what makes her one of the most trusted voices in business news.
Who Is Liz Claman?
Liz Claman is an American broadcast journalist specializing in financial news and business reporting. She currently anchors “The Claman Countdown” on Fox Business Network, airing weekdays from 3-4 PM ET. The show focuses on market trends, economic insights, and in-depth interviews with corporate executives, political figures, and influential business leaders.
Born Elizabeth Kate Claman on December 12, 1963, in Beverly Hills, California, she grew up in a Jewish family with strong professional values. Her father, Dr. Morris Claman, worked as a renowned urologist at UCLA School of Medicine, while her mother, June Beverly Claman, pursued acting in the entertainment industry. This combination of medical excellence and creative expression influenced Claman’s approach to journalism—blending analytical thinking with engaging storytelling.
Claman joined Fox Business Network in October 2007, becoming one of the network’s founding anchors. Her distinctive red hair, warm brown eyes, and commanding 5-foot-7-inch presence make her instantly recognizable. More importantly, her ability to translate complex financial jargon into understandable language has earned her the nickname “the CEO whisperer” among industry insiders.
Throughout her career, Claman has interviewed an impressive roster of business titans including Jamie Dimon, Tim Cook, John Paulson, and Woody Johnson. Her Emmy award for Best Morning Anchor during her Cleveland broadcasting days showcased her talent early. Today, she remains a trusted source for millions of Americans seeking to understand market movements and economic policy.
Liz Claman Salary: How Much Does She Earn at Fox Business?
Liz Claman’s salary at Fox Business Network ranges between $45,500 and $110,500 annually, according to industry reports and salary transparency data. This range reflects base compensation plus potential performance bonuses, special project payments, and ratings-based incentives that major network anchors typically receive.
The salary breakdown shows variation based on several factors. Base annual salary forms the foundation, estimated between $45,500 and $85,000. Performance bonuses can add up to $15,000 depending on show ratings and viewership metrics. Special projects—such as documentary productions, exclusive interviews, or network events—contribute an additional $10,500 at the upper end.
When calculating monthly earnings, Claman makes approximately $3,791 to $9,208 per month. Weekly estimates range from $875 to $2,125. These figures position her in the mid-to-upper range for daytime business news anchors at major cable networks.
Compared to other Fox Business personalities, Claman’s salary appears modest. Maria Bartiromo reportedly commands over $10 million annually, while Neil Cavuto earns approximately $7 million. Stuart Varney brings in around $3 million, and Charles Payne earns between $500,000 and $1 million. The significant difference reflects time slots, show length, contract negotiation history, and overall network positioning.
However, salary alone doesn’t tell the complete financial story. Claman’s three decades in broadcast journalism provided opportunities for smart investments, real estate purchases, and wealth accumulation beyond yearly earnings. Her consistent income stream since the 1990s allowed for financial planning that built substantial net worth over time.
Liz Claman Net Worth in 2026
Liz Claman’s net worth is estimated between $1 million and $5 million as of 2026. This wealth accumulation represents decades of consistent earnings, wise financial management, and strategic investment decisions throughout her broadcasting career.
The net worth calculation includes multiple asset categories. Real estate holdings contribute an estimated $800,000 to $2 million, reflecting property ownership in competitive markets. Savings and investment accounts add another $200,000 to $1.5 million through stock portfolios, bonds, and diversified financial instruments. Retirement accounts such as 401(k) plans and IRAs contribute approximately $200,000 to $800,000. Personal property including vehicles, jewelry, and other assets round out the total with $100,000 to $400,000.
Growing up in Beverly Hills exposed Claman to real estate investment principles early in life. This background likely influenced her approach to wealth building beyond salary dependence. Her 2006 book “The Best Investment Advice I Ever Received” demonstrates her financial knowledge and interest in investment strategies, potentially providing additional income through book sales and speaking engagements.
Compared to mega-wealthy television personalities, Claman’s net worth may seem modest. However, it represents genuine success for a working journalist who built wealth through consistent effort rather than viral fame or entertainment stardom. The financial security she achieved allows comfortable living while maintaining journalistic integrity without financial pressure to sensationalize content.
Her net worth also reflects the reality of news anchor compensation versus entertainment personalities. Business news anchors typically earn less than prime-time hosts or entertainment figures, but Claman’s financial literacy likely helped maximize her earnings through smart money management over three decades.
Early Life and Educational Background
Liz Claman was born on December 12, 1963, in the affluent community of Beverly Hills, California. Growing up in this environment provided advantages, but her family emphasized education and hard work over inherited privilege. Her Jewish heritage stems from Russian and Romanian ancestry, creating a rich cultural background that valued achievement and community contribution.
Her father, Dr. Morris Claman, established himself as a respected urologist at UCLA School of Medicine. His medical career demonstrated dedication to helping others while maintaining professional excellence. Her mother, June Beverly Claman, worked as an actress, understanding entertainment industry demands and public presentation skills. This unique combination of medical precision and creative expression influenced young Liz’s development.
Claman’s sister, Danielle Claman, became a producer for Dick Wolf Films, working on popular crime drama series. This family of achievers created an environment where success was expected, not exceptional. The competitive yet supportive household pushed each member toward excellence in their chosen fields.
For high school education, Claman attended Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts, one of America’s most prestigious preparatory schools. The rigorous academic environment prepared her for university-level work while developing critical thinking skills essential for journalism.
She pursued journalism studies at the University of California, Berkeley, learning research methods, ethical reporting standards, and media law. The Berkeley journalism program emphasized factual accuracy and public service aspects of news reporting, principles that guided her entire career.
Additionally, Claman studied at the Sorbonne in Paris, earning a Certificat Supérieur de Français. This international experience broadened her perspective beyond American media culture while demonstrating commitment to continuous learning. The French language skills and European exposure added depth to her worldview as a future business journalist.
Career Journey: From Production Assistant to Prime-Time Anchor
Liz Claman’s broadcasting career began humbly as a production assistant at KCBS-TV in Los Angeles. This entry-level position involved behind-the-scenes work—operating cameras, assisting with editing, managing studio logistics, and supporting on-air talent. The experience taught her television production fundamentals from the ground up, creating respect for every crew member’s contribution.
Her first on-air reporting position came at WSYX-TV in Columbus, Ohio. The smaller market allowed her to develop interviewing skills, practice storytelling techniques, and build confidence in front of cameras. Columbus viewers appreciated her natural warmth and clear communication style, providing positive feedback that encouraged career advancement.
Claman then moved to WEWS-TV in Cleveland for a morning anchor position. Her engaging personality and professional delivery resonated with Cleveland audiences, earning her an Emmy Award for Best Morning Anchor. This recognition validated her talent and opened doors to larger markets and national opportunities.
In 1998, Claman joined CNBC, marking her entry into national business news broadcasting. She hosted several shows including “Market Watch” and “Morning Call,” developing expertise in financial journalism. The CNBC years taught her how to interview corporate executives, analyze market trends, and explain economic concepts to general audiences. Business leaders began requesting her specifically for interviews, recognizing her fairness and preparation.
October 2007 represented a pivotal moment when Claman joined Fox Business Network as one of its founding anchors. She launched “The Claman Countdown,” securing the 3-4 PM ET afternoon time slot. The show quickly gained popularity for market analysis during the critical final trading hour and exclusive interviews with business titans.
Throughout her Fox Business tenure, Claman interviewed countless influential figures including Warren Buffett, Jamie Dimon, Tim Cook, Bill Gates, John Paulson, and Woody Johnson. Her preparation, research depth, and respectful questioning style earned her the industry nickname “the CEO whisperer.” Executives trust her to ask tough questions fairly while presenting their perspectives accurately.
The career progression from production assistant to respected national anchor demonstrates the value of starting at the bottom, learning comprehensively, and consistently improving craft. Claman’s journey inspires aspiring journalists who wonder whether hard work and dedication still create opportunities in competitive media industries.
Personal Life: Marriage, Family, and Recent Separation
Liz Claman married Jeff Kepnes in 1999 at the Beverly Hills Hotel in California. Kepnes worked as a senior executive producer in television news, bringing his own impressive credentials to the relationship. At the time of their marriage, he served as a line producer for “The News With Brian Williams” while Claman anchored business programming at CNBC.
Jeff Kepnes built his career across multiple major networks. He worked at MSNBC before joining CNN in 2003, where he spent 14 years as a senior producer heading special events coverage. In 2017, he returned to MSNBC as managing editor, eventually overseeing production for “Morning Joe” hosted by Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski. Interestingly, Kepnes briefly worked at Fox News around 2003, creating an unusual situation where both spouses understood rival network cultures.
The couple began their careers together at WHDH-TV in Boston, Massachusetts, creating a foundation built on shared professional understanding. Their partnership worked well for over two decades because both understood broadcast journalism’s demanding schedules, breaking news pressures, and public scrutiny.
Together, Claman and Kepnes raised two children—daughter Gabrielle Kepnes and son Julian Kepnes. They balanced demanding television careers with family responsibilities, demonstrating that media power couples can successfully manage work-life integration with planning and mutual support.
However, in February 2026, Page Six exclusively reported that Claman and Kepnes had separated after 24 years of marriage. Sources described the split as amicable, noting the couple “quietly separated in 2023” according to close friends. The separation apparently occurred two years before public knowledge, suggesting both parties handled the situation privately and respectfully.
Observant Fox Business viewers noticed Claman stopped wearing her wedding ring during “The Claman Countdown” broadcasts. This subtle change sparked speculation before the official confirmation. Friends told media outlets that the couple “drifted apart” rather than experiencing dramatic conflict, a common pattern in long marriages where careers and personal growth lead different directions.
Despite their networks being heated rivals—Fox Business versus MSNBC—both maintained professionalism throughout their marriage and separation. The split demonstrates that even successful partnerships sometimes evolve beyond romantic relationships while preserving mutual respect and co-parenting responsibilities.
As of early 2026, Claman continues hosting her Fox Business show while Kepnes remains managing editor at MSNBC. Their two teenage children navigate this transition with support from both parents. The situation illustrates the complexity of maintaining high-profile careers while managing personal life changes under public attention.
Physical Appearance and On-Screen Presence
Liz Claman stands 5 feet 7 inches (1.72 meters) tall, giving her a commanding presence both on camera and in person. Her height works perfectly for television broadcasting, allowing comfortable eye contact with interview guests without significant height differences creating awkward camera angles.
Her most distinctive feature is vibrant red hair that makes her instantly recognizable to Fox Business viewers. The striking hair color catches attention immediately when channel surfing, helping build brand recognition in competitive cable news environments. Complementing her red hair are warm brown eyes that convey trustworthiness and approachability—essential qualities for financial journalists seeking to connect with audiences.
At 62 years old in 2026, Claman maintains youthful energy that surprises people learning her actual age. Her enthusiasm for journalism remains evident in every broadcast, demonstrating that passion for one’s work transcends chronological years. The combination of experience wisdom and energetic presentation creates unique appeal across different viewer demographics.
Physical appearance matters in television broadcasting, whether fair or not. Claman’s professional wardrobe choices generate enough interest that “blouse Liz Claman net worth” became a search term, indicating fans notice and appreciate her fashion sense. Her clothing selections balance professionalism with personal style, avoiding both overly conservative and attention-seeking extremes.
Beyond physical attributes, Claman’s on-screen presence stems from genuine curiosity, thorough preparation, and authentic engagement with subjects. She listens actively during interviews rather than simply waiting to ask the next question. This quality makes business leaders comfortable opening up during conversations, providing insights they might withhold from less skilled interviewers.
Social Media Presence and Digital Engagement
Liz Claman maintains active social media presence across multiple platforms, understanding modern journalism extends beyond traditional television broadcasts. Her digital footprint helps build audience connections, share market insights, and promote “The Claman Countdown” episodes.
On Twitter (now X), she uses the handle @LizClaman to share breaking business news, market commentary, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of upcoming interviews. The platform’s real-time nature suits financial journalism perfectly, allowing her to provide context during market volatility or breaking economic news. She occasionally responds to followers, building community around business news discussion.
Her Facebook profile reaches viewers who prefer that social platform’s format. Facebook allows longer-form posts compared to Twitter, letting her share more detailed analysis or personal reflections on industry trends. The platform also helps reach older demographics who may not engage with Twitter or Instagram regularly.
LinkedIn presence maintains her professional network within journalism and business communities. The platform connects her with executives, public relations professionals, and industry contacts who may become future interview subjects. LinkedIn also establishes thought leadership through articles and professional commentary on business trends.
Instagram provides behind-the-scenes content from “The Claman Countdown” tapings, showing the human side of financial journalism. Photos of her preparing for interviews, interacting with guests, and working with production teams give audiences insider perspectives on television news creation.
The multi-platform approach demonstrates understanding that modern journalists must meet audiences where they consume content. Younger viewers might discover Claman through Instagram clips, while professional contacts engage via LinkedIn. Traditional television viewers might follow her Twitter for additional market commentary between broadcasts.
Her social media success proves valuable to Fox Business Network by extending content reach beyond live broadcast hours. Networks increasingly value anchors who build personal brands that drive viewership across digital platforms, making Claman’s social engagement a career asset beyond on-air skills.
Awards and Professional Recognition
Liz Claman’s broadcasting excellence earned her an Emmy Award for Best Morning Anchor during her tenure at WEWS-TV in Cleveland. This prestigious recognition validated her talent early in her career, opening doors to larger markets and national opportunities. Emmy Awards represent peer recognition within the television industry, making the honor particularly meaningful.
Beyond formal awards, Claman earned the industry nickname “the CEO whisperer” for her ability to secure exclusive interviews with notoriously media-shy business leaders. This informal title represents perhaps greater recognition than any trophy—professional respect from the executives she covers and the journalists she works alongside.
Her 2006 book “The Best Investment Advice I Ever Received” established her as a financial thought leader beyond daily news coverage. The publication compiled wisdom from successful investors, demonstrating her ability to extract valuable insights and present them accessibly. The book created additional credibility with audiences seeking investment guidance from trusted sources.
Professional recognition also comes through interview access. When Warren Buffett, Bill Gates, or Jamie Dimon agree to interviews, they choose journalists they respect and trust. Claman’s consistent ability to land these exclusive conversations represents industry acknowledgment of her professionalism, preparation, and fair representation.
Liz Claman vs Other Fox Business Anchors: Salary Comparison
Understanding Liz Claman’s financial compensation requires context within Fox Business Network’s broader salary structure. Anchor earnings vary dramatically based on time slots, experience, contract negotiations, and overall network positioning.
Maria Bartiromo stands as Fox Business’s highest-paid personality, reportedly earning over $10 million annually. She hosts morning programming and prime-time shows, commanding top-tier compensation for her extensive career and high-profile status. Her salary reflects decades of business journalism experience and strong viewer loyalty.
Neil Cavuto earns approximately $7 million annually, hosting shows in afternoon and evening slots. His long tenure at Fox News and Fox Business, combined with his distinctive presentation style, justify his significant compensation. Cavuto’s health challenges and continued dedication also factor into his value to the network.
Stuart Varney makes around $3 million yearly for his morning business programming. His energetic style and market opening coverage attract dedicated viewership, particularly among active traders seeking pre-market analysis. Morning time slots traditionally command strong advertising rates, supporting higher anchor salaries.
Charles Payne earns between $500,000 and $1 million annually, hosting the 2-3 PM ET time slot immediately before Claman’s show. His compensation places him in similar range to Claman, reflecting comparable afternoon positioning and audience demographics.
Claman’s $45,500 to $110,500 salary range appears modest compared to top Fox Business earners. Several factors explain this difference. First, afternoon time slots (3-4 PM ET) typically generate lower advertising revenue than morning or prime-time programming. Market closing coverage attracts specific audiences but smaller overall viewership than broader business shows.
Second, contract negotiation timing affects compensation. Anchors who negotiated during network launch or growth phases may have secured more favorable long-term deals. Claman joined Fox Business at its 2007 founding, and her current contract terms may reflect that original agreement structure rather than recent market rates.
Third, salary doesn’t reflect total compensation. Stock options, retirement contributions, health benefits, expense accounts, and other perks add significant value beyond base salary figures. Networks structure compensation packages differently for various personalities based on individual circumstances and negotiation priorities.
Despite earning less than top Fox Business personalities, Claman’s salary provides comfortable living while her accumulated net worth over three decades creates financial security. The comparison illustrates that television news compensation varies widely based on factors beyond pure talent or viewer popularity.
The Claman Countdown: Show Format and Impact
“The Claman Countdown” airs weekdays from 3-4 PM ET on Fox Business Network, covering the final trading hour when market volatility often increases. This strategic time slot allows Claman to analyze closing market movements, breaking news impact on stock prices, and last-minute trading decisions.
The show format balances live market coverage with in-depth interviews. Trading floor reporters provide real-time updates from the New York Stock Exchange and NASDAQ, while Claman anchors from the studio. Graphics display major indices, sector performance, and notable stock movements throughout the hour.
Interview segments feature corporate executives, economic analysts, political figures, and industry experts. Claman’s preparation shines during these conversations—she asks informed questions based on company filings, recent news, and broader industry trends. Guests appreciate her understanding of their business contexts, creating more substantive conversations than generic financial interviews.
The show’s impact extends beyond daily broadcasts. Exclusive interviews often generate headlines picked up by other media outlets, expanding Fox Business’s influence within business journalism. When Claman interviews major CEOs or gets first reactions to economic policy announcements, those moments become reference points for market analysis.
Her ability to explain complex financial concepts in accessible language makes “The Claman Countdown” valuable for both sophisticated investors and general audiences seeking to understand market movements. This inclusive approach broadens the show’s appeal beyond hardcore finance enthusiasts, attracting viewers who want business knowledge without drowning in technical jargon.
Book Publication and Financial Expertise
In 2006, Liz Claman published “The Best Investment Advice I Ever Received,” establishing herself as a financial thought leader beyond daily news coverage. The book compiles investment wisdom from successful investors, business leaders, and financial experts she interviewed throughout her career.
The publication demonstrates Claman’s ability to extract valuable insights from conversations and present them in accessible formats. Rather than writing a personal finance guide, she curated expert advice, allowing readers to learn from multiple perspectives on wealth building, risk management, and investment strategy.
Book sales provided additional income beyond her television salary, diversifying her revenue streams. More importantly, the publication enhanced her credibility with business audiences who might dismiss television personalities as mere talking heads without genuine financial knowledge.
The book’s timing—published during her CNBC tenure before joining Fox Business—positioned her as an established financial journalist when Fox Business launched. This credibility transfer helped “The Claman Countdown” gain immediate respect rather than building authority from scratch.
For viewers, knowing their anchor authored a well-regarded investment book adds trust to daily market analysis. Claman doesn’t just report financial news—she understands investment principles deeply enough to publish professional work on the subject. This expertise differentiates her from general news anchors assigned to cover business without specialized knowledge.
Key Takeaways
Liz Claman built a successful 30-year broadcasting career from production assistant to Emmy-winning Fox Business anchor, earning between $45,500 and $110,500 annually with accumulated net worth of $1-5 million.
Her strategic education at UC Berkeley and the Sorbonne, combined with progressive experience at KCBS, WSYX, WEWS, CNBC, and Fox Business, demonstrates the value of comprehensive journalism training and career ladder climbing.
Recent separation from MSNBC executive Jeff Kepnes after 24 years of marriage illustrates personal life challenges even successful professionals navigate, handled with dignity and privacy until public disclosure.
As “the CEO whisperer,” Claman’s interview access to business titans like Warren Buffett and Jamie Dimon reflects professional reputation built on thorough preparation, fair questioning, and accurate representation.
Her multi-platform social media presence and 2006 book publication showcase modern journalism requirements—building personal brand beyond traditional broadcasting while establishing subject matter expertise through published work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Liz Claman’s current net worth? Liz Claman’s net worth is estimated between $1 million and $5 million as of 2026, accumulated through three decades of broadcast journalism, smart investments, and book publication income.
How much does Liz Claman earn at Fox Business Network? Liz Claman earns between $45,500 and $110,500 annually at Fox Business, with variation based on base salary, performance bonuses, and special project compensation.
Is Liz Claman still married to Jeff Kepnes? No, Liz Claman and Jeff Kepnes separated in 2023 after 24 years of marriage, though the split wasn’t publicly confirmed until February 2026.
What show does Liz Claman host? Liz Claman anchors “The Claman Countdown” on Fox Business Network, airing weekdays from 3-4 PM ET covering market closing hour and business interviews.
How old is Liz Claman? Liz Claman was born December 12, 1963, making her 62 years old in 2026.
Where did Liz Claman go to college? Liz Claman studied journalism at the University of California, Berkeley, and also studied at the Sorbonne in Paris, earning a French language certification.
What is Liz Claman’s height? Liz Claman stands 5 feet 7 inches (1.72 meters) tall.
Does Liz Claman have children? Yes, Liz Claman has two children with Jeff Kepnes—daughter Gabrielle Kepnes and son Julian Kepnes.
Why is Liz Claman called the CEO whisperer? Liz Claman earned the nickname “the CEO whisperer” for her ability to secure exclusive interviews with media-shy business leaders through her professional reputation and fair interviewing style.
What awards has Liz Claman won? Liz Claman won an Emmy Award for Best Morning Anchor during her tenure at WEWS-TV in Cleveland before joining national business news networks.
Conclusion
Liz Claman represents broadcast journalism success built on dedication, expertise, and authentic audience connection. From production assistant beginnings to becoming Fox Business Network’s “CEO whisperer,” her career demonstrates that consistent excellence creates opportunities in competitive industries. Her $45,500 to $110,500 annual salary and $1-5 million net worth reflect financial success through smart management rather than flashy entertainment stardom.
The recent separation from Jeff Kepnes after 24 years of marriage reminds us that even successful professionals navigate personal challenges. Handling the situation with privacy and dignity until public disclosure shows maturity and respect for family during difficult transitions.
Looking forward, Claman continues anchoring “The Claman Countdown” while adapting to personal life changes. Her established reputation, interview access, and trusted voice in financial journalism suggest continued career success regardless of personal circumstances. For viewers seeking reliable business news analysis, she remains a consistent presence during market closing hours.
Whether you’re interested in financial journalism careers, curious about television anchor compensation, or following business news personalities, Liz Claman’s story offers insights into building lasting success through preparation, professionalism, and genuine expertise.