Brianna Keilar Biography
Brianna Marie Keilar is a respected American journalist and CNN co‑anchor known for political reporting and live news coverage. She was born on September 21, 1980 in Canberra, Australia, and grew up in the United States. She earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Mass Communications and Psychology from the University of California, Berkeley. Then, she began her journalism career at local TV in Yakima, Washington.
Keilar joined CNN in 2006 as a correspondent for CNN Newsource. She later rose to become White House correspondent and senior political correspondent. In 2023, she began co‑anchoring CNN News Central’s afternoon edition. She won the 2009 National Press Foundation Dirksen Award for Congress reporting.
Also, she received the 2014 White House Correspondents’ Aldo Beckman Award for her coverage of major policy issues. Furthermore, Keilar writes the “Home Front” column highlighting military family stories. In her personal life, she married Fernando Lujan in 2016 and has one son. The blend of journalism excellence and personal commitment makes her a prominent news figure.
Brianna Keilar Age
How old is Brianna Keilar?
Brianna Keilar was born on September 21, 1980, in Canberra, Australia, making her 45 years old as of March 2026. She will celebrate her 46th birthday in September. Over the years, Keilar has built more than 20 years of experience in journalism, reporting on major political events and co-anchoring CNN News Central. Her age reflects both her professional achievements and her growth as a respected news anchor.
Brianna Keilar‘s Height
How tall is Brianna Keilar?
Brianna stands at 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall, giving her a commanding on‑screen presence. Her height often complements her professional role as a CNN anchor and political correspondent. Standing taller than average, she carries confidence and poise during live broadcasts. Along with her height, she maintains a healthy physique that matches her active journalism lifestyle.
Brianna Keilar Husband
Is Brianna Keilar still married?
Keilar married Fernando Lujan on December 31, 2016 in Las Vegas after a long courtship. Lujan is an Army officer and military professional, and Keilar proudly calls herself a military spouse. Before Fernando, she was married to Dave French in 2009, but that marriage ended in divorce. Together, Brianna and Fernando have built a family in Washington, D.C. They welcomed their first son, Antonio Allen Martinez Lujan, in June 2018. Additionally, Keilar is a stepmother to Fernando’s son from a previous relationship. Despite busy careers, they balance journalism and family life with shared commitment. Their relationship highlights strength, partnership, and shared life experiences.
Brianna Keilar Children – Kids & Family Life
Brianna Keilar is a proud mother and stepmother to two boys as of 2026. She and her husband, Fernando Lujan, welcomed their first child, Antonio Allen Martinez Lujan, on June 8, 2018 after years of relationship and marriage. In addition, she lovingly raises Fernando’s older son, Teddy Lujan, from a previous relationship. Keilar shares many family moments across social media, celebrating milestones and quality time with her sons. Moreover, she balances motherhood with her demanding career as a CNN anchor and political correspondent. Overall, Keilar’s children are central to her life, inspiring both personal joy and dedication to work–life harmony.
Brianna Keilar Parents – Family Background & Early Life
Brianna Keilar was born to Glenn Keilar and Miriam Allen Keilar in Canberra, Australia on September 21, 1980. Her father, Glenn, is Australian and worked abroad when she was born. Then, her family moved to Orange County, California when she was two years old. Growing up with her multicultural background shaped both her identity and career interest in journalism. Tragically, Keilar’s mother, Miriam, died from leukemia in May 2016, a loss that deeply affected her personal life. In contrast, details about her father’s career and other family members remain largely private, as Keilar focuses on her professional journey and immediate family. Her upbringing by Glenn and Miriam played a meaningful role in shaping her commitment to journalism and public storytelling.
Brianna Keilar Education – Schooling & Degrees of CNN Anchor
Brianna Keilar began her academic journey at Mission Viejo High School in California, where she graduated in 1998 and earned recognition from classmates. After high school, she enrolled at the University of California, Berkeley to pursue higher education in media and human behavior. There, she worked hard and graduated in 2001 with dual bachelor’s degrees in mass communications and psychology. At Berkeley, she joined the Phi Beta Kappa honor society for academic excellence. Her education equipped her with strong communication and analytical skills for a thriving journalism career at CNN and beyond.
Brianna Keilar CNN Career – Anchor Roles & Journalism Journey
Brianna Keilar began her CNN career in 2006 as a correspondent for CNN Newsource in Washington, D.C. From there, she advanced to general assignment correspondent covering major breaking news stories. Later, she became CNN’s congressional correspondent, reporting on U.S. House and Senate activity. Then, she served as White House correspondent and senior political correspondent, covering presidents and major elections. Eventually, she anchored her own show, CNN Right Now with Brianna Keilar. In 2021, she joined the morning program New Day as a co‑anchor.
Brianna Keilar’s Weight Loss
Brianna Keilar focuses on balanced health and strong routines rather than extreme diets or dramatic weight loss. She emphasizes healthy eating combined with regular physical activity to stay toned. Additionally, she often talks about self‑care and stress management to support overall wellness. Keilar’s busy journalism career at CNN motivates her to maintain good habits like consistent sleep, mindful eating, and daily movement. Moreover, she encourages others to pursue fitness goals safely and sustainably instead of quick fixes.
Brianna Keilar’s Salary – CNN Anchor Income & Earnings
What is Brianna Keilar‘s salary?
Keilar earns an annual salary reported to be around $190,000 – $240,000 for her work at CNN as a co‑anchor and correspondent. Her income reflects years of experience in political reporting and live news coverage at the network. Additionally, her salary may include bonuses from special assignments and media projects.
Brianna Keilar Net Worth – CNN Anchor Wealth & Earnings
Brianna Keilar has an estimated net worth of around $3 million to $4 million from her journalism career. She earned income from her CNN anchor salary, reporting roles, and media appearances. Additionally, Keilar may generate earnings from speaking engagements. Overall, her net worth reflects long‑term success in broadcast journalism.
