Steve Kroft is an American journalist, television correspondent, and investigative reporter who has an estimated net worth of $30 million. Best known for his three-decade tenure on the iconic TV news magazine 60 Minutes, Kroft built his wealth through a highly successful broadcast journalism career, lucrative television contracts, and decades of reporting some of the world’s most important stories.
At the height of his career with CBS News, Kroft reportedly earned an annual salary of approximately $7 million, making him one of the highest-paid television journalists in the United States. Over the years, he became one of the most recognizable faces on American television, earning widespread respect for his investigative reporting, in-depth interviews, and international coverage.
| Steve Kroft Net Worth | $30 Million |
| Date of Birth | August 22, 1945 |
| Place of Birth | Kokomo, Indiana |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Journalist, Television Correspondent, and Investigative Reporter |
Early Life
Steve Kroft was born on August 22, 1945, in Kokomo, Indiana. He attended S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in 1967.
While in college, Kroft worked at the student newspaper and campus radio station, gaining valuable journalism experience that would help shape his future career. His passion for storytelling and reporting emerged early, laying the groundwork for a lifetime in news.
Military Service and Journalism Training
Shortly after graduating, Kroft was drafted into the U.S. Army and served during the Vietnam War. He worked as a military reporter for the Armed Forces Network and later became a correspondent and photographer for Stars and Stripes.
His reporting skills earned him several Army journalism awards as well as a Bronze Star for Meritorious Achievement.
Following his military service, Kroft returned to journalism and later earned a master’s degree from the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism in 1975.
Joining CBS News
After working as a reporter in Florida, Kroft attracted the attention of CBS News, which hired him in 1980.
Over the next several years, he covered some of the most significant stories of the era, including:
- The civil war in El Salvador
- The U.S. invasion of Grenada
- The Lebanese Civil War
- Terrorism in Northern Ireland
- The assassination of Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi
- The hijacking of TWA Flight 847
His international reporting earned him critical acclaim and his first Emmy Award.
Becoming a Star on 60 Minutes
In 1989, Kroft joined 60 Minutes, a move that transformed him into one of America’s most respected television journalists.
Over the next 30 years, he became known for:
- Investigative reporting
- High-profile political interviews
- International affairs coverage
- Corporate and government investigations
- Exclusive interviews with world leaders and celebrities
One of his most notable assignments came in 1990 when he became the first American journalist granted extensive access to the Chernobyl disaster nuclear facility following the catastrophe.
His reporting won multiple Emmy Awards and further elevated his profile within CBS News.
Presidential
Throughout his career, Kroft interviewed numerous influential figures, including presidents, politicians, business leaders, and celebrities.
Among his most talked-about interviews was a 1992 conversation with Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton during the presidential campaign.
He also conducted memorable interviews with actors, entertainers, and public figures. One particularly famous moment occurred during an interview with Clint Eastwood when Kroft asked a personal question about the actor’s family life, leading to a lengthy silence that became television lore.
Awards
Steve Kroft’s reporting career earned him some of journalism’s highest honors.
His accolades include:
- 11 Emmy Awards
- Emmy Lifetime Achievement Award
- Five Peabody Awards
- Two Alfred I. duPont–Columbia Awards
- Multiple honorary doctorate degrees
In 2003, Kroft and the entire 60 Minutes team received recognition for their lifetime contributions to investigative journalism.
His work helped establish 60 Minutes as one of the most trusted and influential television news programs in history.
Steve Kroft Salary
During his peak years at CBS News and 60 Minutes, Kroft reportedly earned approximately $7 million annually.
His compensation reflected his status as one of the network’s most valuable journalists and one of the leading figures in television news.
Combined with decades of steady earnings, syndication revenue, investments, and real estate holdings, these contracts contributed significantly to his estimated $30 million net worth.
Personal Life
Steve Kroft married journalist and author Jennet Conant in 1991.
Conant is known for writing bestselling historical nonfiction books, particularly those focused on World War II.
The couple has one son, John, who studied at Juilliard School.
In 2015, Kroft received media attention after reports surfaced regarding an extramarital affair. He publicly acknowledged the relationship and apologized. Despite the controversy, his marriage endured.
Real Estate
Over the years, Kroft accumulated substantial real estate assets.
He and Jennet Conant have owned residences in:
- New York City
- Sag Harbor, New York
These properties have contributed to the family’s overall wealth and financial portfolio.
Also Read: Richard Marx Net Worth
Email your news TIPS to Editor@Kahawatungu.com — this is our only official communication channel
