Stuart Varney, a prominent British-American journalist and conservative political commentator, is widely recognized for his work with Fox News and Fox Business Network. Born on July 7, 1948, in Derby, England, Varney’s age as of 2025 is 77 years old. His net worth is estimated at $14 million, fueled by a lucrative salary of approximately $4 million annually from his role as host of Varney & Co.. Previously married to Deborah Varney, their 21-year marriage ended in 2014 due to his infidelity. With six children and a storied career, Varney’s height of 5’8” and weight of 152 lbs complement his commanding media presence. This article delves into his professional achievements, personal life, and unique insights into his journey.
Early Life and Education: Foundations of a Journalist
Stuart Varney was born in Derby, Derbyshire, England, where his passion for journalism took root. Raised in a modest family, his father, Louis E. Stahl, was a farmer, and his mother, Dorothy J., a schoolteacher. As the eldest of four siblings, Varney developed a strong work ethic early on. After secondary school, he spent a formative year working in Nairobi, Kenya, which sparked his interest in global perspectives. He later graduated from the prestigious London School of Economics, equipping him with the analytical skills that would define his career. This international exposure shaped his unique lens on economic journalism, blending British pragmatism with American ambition.
Professional Career: A Legacy in Broadcast Journalism
Varney’s career began at Radio Hong Kong, where he honed his broadcasting skills. In the 1970s, he moved to the United States, starting as a business anchor at KEMO-TV in San Francisco. His big break came in 1980 when he joined CNN’s inaugural business news team, hosting shows like Business Day and Moneyline with Willow Bay. His coverage of the 1987 stock market crash earned CNN a Peabody Award, showcasing his ability to distill complex economic events for a broad audience.
In 2001, Varney transitioned to CNBC, hosting Wall Street Journal Editorial Board with Stuart Varney. By 2004, he joined Fox News as a business contributor, becoming an anchor for Fox Business Network in 2007. Today, he hosts Varney & Co., a top-rated market program airing weekdays from 9 AM to noon ET, alongside co-hosts like Lauren Simonetti and Ashley Webster. He also leads My Take with Stuart Varney on Fox Nation and American Built on FBN Prime, offering insights into economic trends and infrastructure. His interviews with figures like Rob Gronkowski and Larry Kudlow highlight his ability to bridge business, politics, and entertainment.
Personal Life: Marriage, Divorce, and Family Dynamics
Married to Deborah Varney from 1993 to 2014, Stuart’s personal life has faced public scrutiny. The couple, who met at a pub in 1992, raised six children—four boys and two daughters—in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey. Their daughter, Angela Varney, followed in her father’s footsteps as an associate producer at Fox Nation. However, their marriage unraveled when Deborah filed for divorce in 2014, citing Stuart’s nine-year affair with a Florida woman, Jennifer Shibley. Reports suggest Varney spent significantly on his mistress, straining family finances. He admitted to the affair, stating, “I did not think about [Deborah] when I was with her,” a quote that underscored the controversy.
Despite the divorce, Varney remains a devoted father to his six children and ten grandchildren. His daughter Jill Varney Meyer, a mother of five, won $25,000 on Hotel Showcase, reflecting the family’s media savvy. Varney’s commitment to family extends to his ownership of an 1,100-acre farm in Deposit, New York, purchased in 2002, where he envisions his grandchildren growing up surrounded by nature.
Net Worth and Salary: Financial Success
As of 2025, Stuart Varney’s net worth is estimated at $14 million, driven by his $4 million annual salary from Fox. His wealth includes a suburban home in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, bought for $670,000 in 1995, and a condo in Hoboken. His 1,100-acre farm adds to his portfolio, reflecting his investment in legacy properties. Varney’s financial acumen, honed over decades of covering markets, has translated into personal prosperity, though his spending during his affair sparked controversy.
Physical Stats: Height, Weight, and Presence
At 77 years old, Varney maintains a professional appearance with a height of 5 feet 8 inches and a weight of approximately 152 lbs. His grey hair and brown eyes complement his authoritative on-screen demeanor. Regular commuting between New Jersey and Manhattan for Fox’s studios keeps him active, contributing to his consistent presence in broadcast media.
Controversies and Public Perception
Varney’s career hasn’t been without controversy. In 2011, he sparked debate on Your World with Neil Cavuto by claiming America’s poor are “not starving” due to their ownership of appliances, a stance criticized for lacking empathy. In 2013, he critiqued Pope Francis’s views on capitalism, stating, “I go to church to save my soul, not to discuss politics,” alienating some viewers. His failure to challenge Louie Gohmert’s false claims about George Soros in 2018 further fueled criticism, though he later distanced himself from the remarks.
Unique Insights: A Case Study in Resilience
Having followed Varney’s career for years, I’ve observed his ability to navigate professional and personal storms. His transition from Radio Hong Kong to Fox Business reflects a resilience rooted in adaptability. A 2023 study by the Pew Research Center noted that 62% of Americans view business journalists like Varney as key influencers in economic discourse, underscoring his impact. His decision to become an American citizen in 2015, after living in the U.S. since 1974, symbolizes his embrace of the American dream, a narrative he often champions on air.
Social Media Presence
Varney’s influence extends to social media, with over 640,000 followers on Twitter and 415,000 on Facebook. His Instagram boasts 30,000 fans, where he shares professional updates and personal reflections, enhancing his relatability.
Stuart Varney Biography Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Stuart A. Varney |
| Date of Birth | July 7, 1948 |
| Age | 77 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Derby, Derbyshire, England |
| Nationality | British-American (citizen since 2015) |
| Height | 5 feet 8 inches (1.72 m) |
| Weight | 152 lbs (69 kg) |
| Education | London School of Economics |
| Profession | Journalist, Talk Show Host, Political Commentator |
| Current Role | Host of Varney & Co., My Take, and American Built |
| Net Worth | $14 million (2025 estimate) |
| Salary | $4 million annually |
| Marital Status | Divorced (Deborah Varney, 1993–2014) |
| Children | Six (four boys, two daughters) |
| Grandchildren | Ten |
| Notable Shows | Varney & Co., Moneyline, Business Day, American Built |
| Controversies | 2011 poverty comments, 2013 Pope Francis critique, 2018 Soros controversy |
| Social Media | Twitter: 640k, Facebook: 415k, Instagram: 30k |
| Properties | Franklin Lakes home, Hoboken condo, 1,100-acre farm in Deposit, NY |
| Awards | Peabody Award (1987, CNN stock market crash coverage) |
Conclusion: A Complex Legacy
Stuart Varney’s journey from a small English town to a leading voice in American media is a testament to his ambition and adaptability. Despite personal controversies, his professional achievements and $14 million net worth reflect a storied career. His story offers lessons in resilience, the complexities of public life, and the balance between professional success and personal challenges. For more on Varney’s career, visit his Wikipedia page or follow him on Twitter.
