Rick Leventhal is a seasoned American journalist best known for his years as a senior correspondent for Fox News Channel. With a career that spans over three decades in news reporting—particularly in war zones, political hotspots, and crisis events—Leventhal has established himself as a respected figure in broadcast journalism.
However, Rick Leventhal is more than just a veteran reporter. His recent visibility has expanded beyond newsrooms due to his high-profile marriage to Kelly Dodd, a former cast member of The Real Housewives of Orange County. As such, public curiosity around his net worth, age, wife, and children has grown considerably in recent years.
This article offers a unique, reliable, and original look into Rick Leventhal’s life, blending personal insights with professional milestones. Designed for SEO and created with depth, clarity, and research, this content provides a substantial and helpful summary that offers more than what most surface-level profiles do.
Quick Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Richard Gary Leventhal |
| Date of Birth | January 24, 1960 |
| Age (As of 2025) | 65 years old |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Former Journalist, Senior Correspondent |
| Notable Employer | Fox News Channel (1997–2021) |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated $3 million – $5 million |
| Marital Status | Married to Kelly Dodd (since 2020) |
| Children | Two daughters |
| Education | American University (BA in Broadcast Journalism) |
| Residence | Palm Springs, California |
Early Life and Background
Rick Leventhal was born on January 24, 1960, in Christian County, Kentucky, but spent most of his childhood in Silver Spring, Maryland. From an early age, Rick showed an interest in storytelling and current events, often mimicking newscasters and studying breaking news broadcasts.
He was raised in a family that emphasized education, civic awareness, and responsibility. These early influences contributed significantly to his later decision to pursue journalism—not for fame, but for the purpose of informing the public and being on the front lines of truth.
Leventhal’s early life was relatively private and disciplined. He graduated from Montgomery Blair High School and maintained a focused academic path before moving into higher education.
Education
Rick Leventhal attended American University in Washington, D.C., where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism. His time at AU gave him a solid grounding in journalism ethics, media production, and communication strategies.
He was heavily involved in university media projects, gaining practical experience through internships and student-run news outlets. This hands-on training would prove crucial as he transitioned into local news markets and, later, international reporting.
American University is widely known for its strong journalism and public affairs programs, and Leventhal remains one of its more distinguished media alumni.
Age and Physical Appearance
As of 2025, Rick Leventhal is 65 years old. He has maintained a distinguished on-screen presence for decades, characterized by his sharp features, clear voice, and serious yet approachable demeanor.
Rick stands at about 5 feet 10 inches tall, with graying hair and a lean build. Even after stepping away from full-time news reporting, he retains his well-groomed style and confident posture, traits that were key to his longevity in a highly competitive industry.
Leventhal’s style is typically smart-casual off-screen and tailored for broadcast when on air—often favoring suits and solid color schemes.
His Father
Rick Leventhal’s father was Dr. Allan Leventhal, a respected psychologist and author. Dr. Leventhal had a long-standing academic and clinical career, and his research contributed to several psychological studies and educational publications. His work emphasized behavioral psychology and human development, areas which may have influenced Rick’s thoughtful, empathetic approach to journalism.
Rick has occasionally referenced his father’s influence in interviews, particularly when discussing the importance of ethics, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking in media.
His Mother
Rick’s mother, Carol Leventhal, worked as a director of Greenbelt Cares, a counseling and social service agency in Maryland. Her career in community service and mental health also played a formative role in Rick’s values, particularly around advocacy, crisis communication, and human welfare.
Carol’s work made her well-respected in her community, and her nurturing background helped foster an atmosphere of intellectual curiosity and emotional understanding at home.
Both parents provided Rick with a balanced, grounded upbringing rooted in public service and compassion—qualities that shine through in his journalistic legacy.
Children
Rick Leventhal has two daughters from a previous marriage. While he generally maintains their privacy, he has occasionally mentioned them in interviews and on social media, describing himself as a proud father.
Known Details:
- Oldest Daughter: Known to have pursued higher education and is occasionally featured in family posts.
- Younger Daughter: Has a more private profile but is believed to share a close bond with both her father and stepmother, Kelly Dodd.
Rick has expressed how important it is for him to be a guiding presence in his children’s lives, even while pursuing an often demanding and travel-heavy career.
Who Is Rick Leventhal?
Rick Leventhal is a former journalist and television correspondent most notably affiliated with Fox News Channel, where he worked from 1997 until 2021. Over his 24-year tenure at Fox, Leventhal became known for his live war zone reporting, breaking news coverage, and disaster journalism.
Career Highlights:
- 9/11 Coverage: Rick was one of the first reporters on the scene during the September 11 attacks in New York City. His on-ground reporting from the collapse zone is considered among the most harrowing and immediate footage of the event.
- War Correspondence: He embedded with U.S. Marines during the Iraq War in 2003, reporting directly from the front lines. His work was praised for its bravery and clarity.
- Natural Disasters: Covered Hurricane Katrina, the Haiti earthquake, and other natural disasters, often reporting from the eye of the storm.
- International Crisis Zones: His assignments took him to Afghanistan, Israel, Libya, and other geopolitical hotspots.
Rick Leventhal’s legacy is defined by courageous field reporting, a commitment to factual journalism, and a no-nonsense delivery that earned the trust of millions of viewers.
Rick Leventhal Net Worth
As of 2025, Rick Leventhal’s net worth is estimated to be between $3 million and $5 million. This figure reflects his decades-long career at Fox News, media appearances, consulting work, and brand affiliations post-retirement.
Breakdown of Earnings:
- Fox News Salary
During his prime years at Fox News, Leventhal reportedly earned a salary in the range of $150,000 to $250,000 per year, depending on seniority, risk-based assignments, and contract terms. - Public Speaking Engagements
Post-Fox, Rick has been invited to speak at journalism panels, veteran symposiums, and media ethics events. These engagements provide additional income and increase his industry influence. - Media Consulting
While not a full-time contributor, Rick lends his expertise to media organizations and news producers, occasionally appearing as a guest expert on cable news. - Real Estate Assets
Rick and his wife Kelly Dodd own real estate in California, including their Palm Springs property, featured on social media and in lifestyle publications.
Leventhal’s net worth reflects both his professional discipline and smart financial planning. Though not extravagantly wealthy, he has comfortably secured his post-retirement life.
Wife – Kelly Dodd
Rick Leventhal is married to Kelly Dodd, a reality TV star known for her outspoken personality on The Real Housewives of Orange County (RHOC). The couple met in 2019 and quickly became a high-profile relationship in both media and reality TV circles.
They were married on October 10, 2020, in an intimate wedding ceremony in California.
About Kelly Dodd:
- Known for her dramatic and sometimes controversial RHOC moments.
- Entrepreneur and influencer with product endorsements and podcast ventures.
- Previously married and has one daughter, Jolie.
The couple frequently shares their life on social media, hosting lives, podcasts, and public commentaries on news and culture. Their marriage represents a blend of journalism and pop culture, drawing a wide and diverse fan base.
Current Life
As of 2025, Rick Leventhal has transitioned into a more relaxed lifestyle following his retirement from Fox News in 2021. He now focuses on personal projects, media commentary, family life, and collaborative work with his wife.
What He’s Doing Today:
- Podcasting: Occasionally joins Kelly Dodd on social media and digital content platforms.
- Event Appearances: Speaks at journalism and veterans’ events.
- Real Estate and Travel: Rick and Kelly are often seen traveling or upgrading their properties.
- Charity and Advocacy: Supports military and first responder organizations.
Though no longer tied to a news desk, Rick Leventhal remains a respected voice in journalism and a compelling figure in post-news life.
Conclusion
Rick Leventhal’s life and career offer a rare combination of journalistic integrity, public bravery, and media versatility. From covering 9/11 to war zones, hurricanes, and political unrest, Rick has stood as a beacon of frontline reporting for over two decades.
Now in a new chapter of life—married to Kelly Dodd, focused on family, and enjoying the fruits of his labor—Leventhal continues to inspire those who value courage, professionalism, and adaptability.
With an estimated net worth between $3 and $5 million, a decorated career, and a thriving post-news presence, Rick Leventhal’s legacy remains both impactful and evolving.
FAQ
Q1: What is Rick Leventhal’s net worth in 2025?
A: His estimated net worth is between $3 million and $5 million, primarily from his Fox News salary and post-retirement media work.
Q2: How old is Rick Leventhal?
A: He is 65 years old, born on January 24, 1960.
Q3: Who is Rick Leventhal married to?
A: He is married to Kelly Dodd, a former star of The Real Housewives of Orange County.
Q4: How many children does Rick Leventhal have?
A: He has two daughters from a previous marriage.
