Who Is Charlie Kirk? MAGA Influencer, Conservative Trump Ally Targeted In Campus Shooting

Last Updated:September 11, 2025, 01:38 IST

At just 31, Charlie Kirk has become a leading figure in right-wing politics and a staunch supporter of President Trump.

He hosts The Charlie Kirk Show, a popular right-wing podcast and media platform (AFP)

Political activist and conservative commentator Charlie Kirk was shot at during an event at Utah Valley University on September 10, prompting widespread reactions from political leaders and the public. The incident occurred as Kirk was launching his national speaking series, “The American Comeback Tour."

A video clip of the shooting quickly circulated on social media, sparking concern and calls for investigation.

In the aftermath, President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to send his well wishes for Kirk’s recovery, praising him as a “great guy from top to bottom." FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed that agents would arrive on the scene to support the investigation. Meanwhile, US Attorney General Pam Bondi and Vice President JD Vance expressed sympathy over the incident, commending Kirk for his activism and influence within the conservative movement.

At just 31, Charlie Kirk has become a leading figure in right-wing politics and a staunch supporter of President Trump. He is widely known for his controversial “Prove Me Wrong" campus events, where he debates students and audience members on political and cultural issues. These events often draw significant crowds with both vocal supporters and critics in attendance, reported Reuters.

Kirk’s political journey began early. Growing up in the Chicago suburbs, he developed an interest in politics during high school, volunteering for a US Senate campaign and even organising a student protest over cafeteria prices. He briefly attended Harper College before dropping out to pursue political activism full-time.

In 2012, at the age of 18, Kirk co-founded Turning Point USA, a conservative student organisation where he still serves as executive director. He also hosts The Charlie Kirk Show, a popular right-wing podcast and media platform, reported BBC.

A key figure in the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement, Kirk spoke at the 2024 Republican National Convention, just days after an assassination attempt on Trump, reported NBC. The then-presidential candidate Trump has repeatedly praised Kirk in public appearances, once saying during a rally, “Charlie Kirk is fantastic. I mean, this guy."

On the personal front, Kirk married Erika Frantzve in 2021. The couple, who met in 2019, now have two children: a daughter, Sarah Rose, born in 2021, and a son, born in 2023.

The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing, with authorities yet to release further details on potential suspects or motives. Kirk’s health, however, remains critical.

News world Who Is Charlie Kirk? MAGA Influencer, Conservative Trump Ally Targeted In Campus Shooting

Read More