Elizabeth Jean Carroll, commonly known as E. Jean Carroll, is a prominent American journalist, author, and advice columnist. Born on December 12, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, Carroll rose to prominence with her trailblazing Ask E. Jean advice column in Elle magazine, which ran from 1993 to 2019.
The column, one of the longest-running American publishing, made Carroll a recognized voice on women’s issues and personal empowerment. In recent years, she has gained further attention for her high-profile legal battles against Donald Trump and Les Moonves, two powerful figures in American society. These cases and her career achievements have solidified her influence in modern media and feminist advocacy.
This comprehensive review explores Carroll’s life, career, estimated net worth in 2024, and her ongoing impact on media and women’s rights.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Elizabeth Jean Carroll |
| Date of Birth | December 12, 1943 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Education | Indiana University, Bloomington |
| Occupation | Journalist, Author, Advice Columnist |
| Primary Income Sources | Journalism, Books, Legal Settlements |
| Estimated Net Worth (2024) | Estimated in the low millions |
| Notable Works | Ask E. Jean column, What Do We Need Men For? |
| Major Legal Wins | $5 million damages (2023); $83.3 million in 2024 |
Early Life and Education
Carroll was born in Detroit, Michigan, and raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana. She was the oldest of four children, with a father who managed a furniture store and a mother active in politics as a Republican. This family background instilled Carroll with a sense of public engagement and service early on.
Attending Indiana University, Carroll distinguished herself in various fields. In 1964, she won the Miss Cheerleader USA title, representing Indiana University and gaining national attention. That same year, she appeared on the TV show To Tell the Truth, foreshadowing her future in the media spotlight. These achievements not only showcased her charisma but laid the foundation for her future career in journalism.
Career Highlights
Ask E. Jean: The Iconic Column
Carroll’s career took off in 1993 when she launched the Ask E. Jean advice column in Elle magazine. Known for its witty, direct advice, the column encouraged women to embrace independence and to avoid centering their lives around men.
Carroll’s bold approach resonated widely. As Amy Gross, former editor-in-chief of Elle, noted, Carroll’s voice was “fearless” and embodied “a woman having a good time.” The column’s popularity made Carroll one of the most well-known advice columnists in American media.
In 2020, Elle ended her column. According to Carroll, her departure was linked to her public conflict with Donald Trump, who had publicly disparaged her. Elle, however, cited business reasons for discontinuing the column. This marked the end of an era but allowed Carroll to focus on more personal and controversial projects.
Television and Media Contributions
Carroll expanded her media presence beyond print. From 1986 to 1987, she wrote for Saturday Night Live, earning an Emmy nomination for her work. This experience introduced her to television, leading to her own show, Ask E. Jean, which aired from 1994 to 1996 on NBC’s America’s Talking (now MSNBC).
The show was a unique blend of humor, advice, and social commentary, earning Carroll a CableACE Award nomination. Entertainment Weekly praised her as “the most entertaining cable talk show host you will never see,” highlighting her entertaining and unconventional approach.
Unique Writing Style and Notable Works
Carroll is recognized for her gonzo journalism, a style known for immersive, first-person narratives. She explored a range of topics, from the lives of basketball groupies to cultural dynamics across American communities.
One of her most acclaimed works is her 1993 biography, Hunter: The Strange and Savage Life of Hunter S. Thompson. This book underscored her boldness and skill in tackling complex, controversial figures. In 2019, Carroll published What Do We Need Men For? A Modest Proposal, a memoir reflecting on her personal experiences and the systemic issues facing women.
The title was inspired by Jonathan Swift’s famous satire, A Modest Proposal, and it explored themes of gender and power. The New York Times praised her as “feminism’s answer to Hunter S. Thompson,” a nod to her impact on feminist literature.
Legal Battles and Their Impact on Net Worth
High-Profile Cases Against Donald Trump
Carroll’s 2019 memoir led to legal action when she accused Donald Trump of sexual assault. Trump denied the allegations, which resulted in Carroll filing defamation and battery lawsuits.
- May 2023: A New York jury awarded Carroll $5 million in damages, finding Trump liable for defamation and sexual abuse. According to CBS News, this award marked a significant win for Carroll, setting a precedent for public figures seeking justice.
- July 2023: Judge Lewis Kaplan ruled that while Trump’s actions didn’t meet New York’s narrow legal definition of rape, they aligned with the common understanding of the term.
- January 2024: Carroll was awarded an additional $83.3 million in damages for reputational harm. This total includes compensation for emotional and reputational harm caused by Trump’s statements. Trump’s legal team appealed immediately, posting a $91.6 million bond as the case continued.
These rulings have had a significant financial impact on Carroll’s net worth, while reinforcing her public role as an advocate for women’s rights.
Allegations Against Les Moonves
In her memoir, Carroll also accused Les Moonves, former CBS CEO, of sexual assault. Although Moonves denied the allegations, Carroll’s decision to name powerful figures underscored the pervasive issue of abuse in high-ranking circles. According to The New York Times, Carroll’s courage helped to further spotlight #MeToo issues within media and politics.
Sources of Income
Journalism and Writing
Carroll’s income primarily comes from her journalism career, particularly from her Ask E. Jean column, and contributions to publications like The Atlantic, Vanity Fair, Esquire, and Playboy. Her books continue to earn royalties, offering her steady revenue.
Books and Publications
Her literary works, such as What Do We Need Men For? and her Hunter S. Thompson biography, reach a broad audience, with royalties providing a consistent income stream. According to Penguin Random House, Carroll’s books enjoy enduring popularity, reinforcing her reputation in literary circles.
Speaking Engagements and Media Appearances
As a public figure and women’s rights advocate, Carroll frequently appears in interviews and at public events. Her recent legal victories have increased her visibility, making her a sought-after speaker. According to Forbes, public speaking engagements can yield substantial fees for prominent figures like Carroll.
Legal Settlements
The damages awarded in Carroll’s lawsuits, including $5 million in 2023 and $83.3 million in 2024, have substantially contributed to her net worth. These legal victories not only mark personal vindication but have significantly boosted her financial standing.
Estimated Net Worth in 2024
While Carroll’s exact net worth remains undisclosed, recent awards have likely placed her wealth in the low millions. The $5 million award from 2023 and $83.3 million in 2024 represent a substantial increase in her financial position. However, the ongoing appeals may delay the full realization of these amounts.
Future Financial Prospects
Ongoing Appeals
Trump’s appeals could impact Carroll’s financial standing, depending on the outcome and timeline. A favorable decision would reinforce her financial position and ensure payment of the awarded amounts.
New Writing and Media Opportunities
Carroll’s heightened public profile may lead to new opportunities in writing or media. With her established audience and literary reputation, any new projects would likely perform well and contribute financially.
Public Appearances and Advocacy
Carroll’s advocacy for women’s rights aligns her with modern feminist movements, potentially leading to further public engagements. These appearances provide additional revenue while strengthening her influence.
FAQs
What is E. Jean Carroll’s net worth in 2024?
Her exact net worth is undisclosed, but legal awards and royalties likely place her wealth in the low millions.
How much has E. Jean Carroll received in legal awards?
In 2023, she received $5 million in damages, followed by $83.3 million in 2024 for defamation and sexual abuse claims against Trump.
What are E. Jean Carroll’s primary sources of income?
Her income stems from journalism, book royalties, public engagements, and recent legal awards.
What books has E. Jean Carroll written?
Her books include Hunter: The Strange and Savage Life of Hunter S. Thompson and What Do We Need Men For? A Modest Proposal.
Will E. Jean Carroll release any new projects in 2024?
There is no confirmed information on new projects, but her increased profile may lead to further publishing opportunities.
Conclusion
E. Jean Carroll’s net worth and influence in 2024 reflect her resilience, career achievements, and significant legal victories. Her contributions to journalism, feminism, and the #MeToo movement have made her a central figure in American media.
While her exact net worth is speculative, Carroll’s ongoing advocacy, public engagements, and legal successes underscore her importance in both media and social justice. Her legacy as a pioneering journalist and advocate for women’s rights is firmly established, with her influence likely to endure in American culture.
