Christiane Amanpour is a highly respected journalist and television host, known for her extensive coverage of international conflicts and her insightful interviews with world leaders. As the Chief International Anchor for CNN and the host of CNN International’s nightly interview program Amanpour, she has established herself as a prominent figure in the field of journalism. Additionally, Amanpour hosts Amanpour & Company on PBS, further showcasing her expertise and versatility.
Personal Stats
| Full Name | Christiane Amanpour |
| Date of Birth | January 12, 1958 |
| Marital Status | Divorced (was married to James Rubin) |
| Birthplace | Ealing, West London |
| Parents | Mohammad Taghi Amanpour (father) and Anne Patricia Hill (mother) |
| Occupation | Journalist, Television Host |
| Nationality | Dual Nationality (Iranian and British) |
| Alma Mater | University of Rhode Island |
Early Life and Education
Christiane Amanpour was born on January 12, 1958, in Ealing, a suburb of West London. Her father, Mohammad Taghi Amanpour, worked as an airline executive for Iran Air, while her mother, Anne Patricia Hill, was of British descent. Raised in Tehran until the age of eleven, Amanpour experienced a multicultural upbringing with her father being a Shia Muslim and her mother a Roman Catholic.
Due to the Iran Revolution in 1979, Amanpour’s family faced challenging times, and they decided to return to England. Amanpour attended the Convent of the Holy Cross, an all-girls preparatory school in Buckinghamshire, and later moved to New Hall School, a Roman Catholic school in Essex. In pursuit of her passion for journalism, she enrolled at the University of Rhode Island in the United States, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism in 1983.
Career
After completing her education, Christiane Amanpour embarked on a remarkable career in journalism. She gained experience working at WBRU-FM, a radio station in Providence, Rhode Island, and also served as an electronic graphics designer for NBC affiliate WJAR. Her dedication and talent led her to join major news networks, including ABC, CBS, and NBC.
In 1996, Amanpour began working as a reporter for CBS’s 60 Minutes, where she covered significant global events and conducted impactful interviews. Her work was widely recognized and earned her a reputation as a fearless journalist who sought to uncover the truth.
In 2009, Amanpour joined CNN as the Chief International Anchor and started hosting her own program, Amanpour. The show features in-depth interviews with influential figures from politics, entertainment, and various fields. Amanpour’s ability to ask tough questions and provide insightful analysis has made her a trusted source of information for viewers worldwide.
In addition to her role at CNN, Amanpour also hosts Amanpour & Company on PBS. This program offers a diverse range of discussions on current affairs, culture, and global issues. Amanpour’s expertise and engaging interviewing style make her a captivating presence on both CNN and PBS.
Awards and Affiliations
Throughout her career, Christiane Amanpour has been honored with numerous awards and accolades for her exceptional work in journalism. In 2007, she was awarded the Commander badge of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for her contributions to the field.
Amanpour is also actively involved in various organizations dedicated to promoting journalism and protecting journalists. She is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, the Committee to Protect Journalists, the Center for Public Integrity, the International Women’s Media Foundation, and the Institute for War and Peace Reporting. Her commitment to freedom of expression and journalist safety led to her appointment as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador in 2015.
Personal Life and Impact
In her personal life, Christiane Amanpour was married to James Rubin, a former US Assistant Secretary of State, from 1998 to 2018. They have a son together named John Darius Rubin. Amanpour’s multicultural background and experiences have shaped her perspective on global issues, making her a compassionate and insightful journalist.
Amanpour’s impact extends beyond her television career. She has made appearances in popular television shows and films, including Gilmore Girls, Iron Man 2, and Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey. Her portrayal of herself in these productions has inspired aspiring journalists and showcased her versatility as a media personality.
In June 2021, Amanpour shared her personal battle with ovarian cancer, highlighting her resilience and determination. She underwent successful surgery and embarked on chemotherapy, demonstrating her strength in the face of adversity.
