Lawrence O’Donnell is a prominent American television anchor, author, actor, screenwriter, and political commentator. He currently hosts The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell on MSNBC, a weekday evening show that offers in-depth political analysis and insightful opinions.
Lawrence O’Donnell Education
O’Donnell was enrolled and graduated from Saint Sebastian’s School in the year 1970. While in school, Lawrence was the captain of the baseball team and wide receiver on the undefeated group. He later on attended and graduated from Harvard College majoring in economics in the year 1976. While at the college, Lawrence authored for the Havard Lampoon. In addition, he was also enrolled at Suffolk University and was awarded the Honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.
Lawrence O’Donnell Nationality
Lawrence O’Donnell is proudly American, having been born and raised in the vibrant city of Boston, Massachusetts. He identifies with white heritage, which adds to the rich tapestry of his background.
Lawrence O’Donnell Age
Lawrence O’Donnell’s age. As of 2026, he’s 74 years old, having been born on November 7, 1951, in Boston, Massachusetts. Every year, he celebrates his birthday on that same date.
Lawrence O’Donnell Height
Standing tall at about 5 feet 11 inches (around 1.80 m), Lawrence is definitely above average in height. However, he hasn’t shared any specifics about his other body measurements with the public.
Lawrence O’Donnell Family
Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Lawrence is the son of Frances Marie and Lawrence Francis Sr. He has Irish roots and was brought up in the Roman Catholic faith. His father worked as an attorney, while his mother was an office manager. Interestingly, he hasn’t disclosed whether he has any siblings.
Lawrence O’Donnell Wife | Divorce
Lawrence was once happily married to Kathryn Harrold, tying the knot on February 14, 1994, surrounded by friends and family. They share a daughter named Elizabeth Buckley Harrold. Unfortunately, the couple divorced in 2013 due to some family disagreements. There were also whispers about Lawrence dating American journalist Tamron Hall back in 2011.
Lawrence O’Donnell MSNOW
Lawrence O’Donnell is best known for hosting The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell on MSNOW. This weekday evening show takes a deep dive into political analysis and opinion.
Before he became a household name, O’Donnell spent years working behind the scenes in the television industry. He was a writer and producer for the critically acclaimed NBC drama The West Wing, where he even made a brief cameo as President Bartlet’s father in some flashback scenes. He later created and executive produced the NBC series Mister Sterling and played a recurring role as Lee Hatcher in the HBO series Big Love.
O’Donnell’s political journey began in 1989 when he became an aide to U.S. Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan. He then served as the staff director for the Senate Finance Committee, gaining invaluable insights into the world of policymaking. He describes his political beliefs as aligning with those of a “practical European socialist.”
In 2009, O’Donnell became a regular contributor on Morning Joe, hosted by Joe Scarborough, where his passionate debate style often ignited intense discussions, including a memorable on-air clash with commentator Marc Thiessen. Around that time, he also frequently filled in as a host for Countdown with Keith Olbermann.
On September 27, 2010, O’Donnell launched The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell on MSNBC. The show briefly moved to the 8 p.m. time slot in 2011 but returned to its 10 p.m. slot later that year, where it has since become a staple of the network’s programming.
In 2017, a leaked off-air video caught O’Donnell expressing his frustration about studio conditions during a break in the broadcast. He later issued a public apology, and the individual who leaked the footage was let go.
Lawrence O’Donnell Salary
As a prominent MSNOW News journalist and the host of “The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell,” he has made quite a name for himself. His estimated annual salary is around $210,000
Lawrence O’Donnell’s Net Worth
Thanks to his successful career as an MSNOW News correspondent and host of “The Last Word,” Lawrence has built a respectable fortune. His estimated net worth stands at about $8 million