Steve Kroft, a renowned American journalist, is best known for his 30-year tenure as a correspondent on CBS’s 60 Minutes. He retired in 2019 at the age of 74, leaving behind a legacy of impactful journalism. Married to bestselling author Jennet Conant since 1991, the couple has a son, John Conant Kroft, an actor. This article explores Kroft’s illustrious career, personal life, net worth, salary, height, weight, and dating history, offering fresh insights and updates for 2025. Learn about his achievements, controversies, and life after 60 Minutes.
Steve Kroft’s Illustrious Career and Retirement from 60 Minutes
Steve Kroft joined 60 Minutes in 1989, becoming a household name through his incisive interviews with figures like Barack Obama, Beyoncé, and Julian Assange. His retirement announcement in May 2019 marked the end of an era. On September 8, 2019, 60 Minutes aired a special tribute episode, where colleague Lesley Stahl interviewed Kroft, reflecting on his 500+ stories and Lifetime Achievement Emmy Award. Kroft shared, “I’ve always admired those who walk away at the top of their game.” His departure at 74 was celebrated for its grace, with Kroft emphasizing the importance of leaving on a high note.
Since retiring, Kroft has remained active, occasionally guest lecturing at journalism schools like Columbia University, where he studied. In a 2023 guest lecture, he discussed the evolving media landscape, noting, “Journalism today demands adaptability to digital platforms while maintaining integrity.” His insights resonate with aspiring journalists navigating a fast-changing industry.
For more on his career, visit CBS News or his Wikipedia page.
Steve Kroft’s Married Life with Jennet Conant
Steve Kroft has been married to Jennet Conant since 1991, a union that has endured public scrutiny. Jennet Conant, a bestselling author, has written for prestigious outlets like The New York Times, Vanity Fair, and Newsweek. Her books, such as The Irregulars, have earned critical acclaim. The couple’s marriage faced a challenge in 2015 when Kroft’s extramarital affair with attorney Lisan Goines was reported. The affair, which began in 2011 at the St. Regis Hotel in Manhattan, led to a public apology from Kroft. He stated, “I deeply regret the pain this caused my family.”
Despite the controversy, Kroft and Conant reconciled, showcasing resilience. As of 2025, they remain together, focusing on family and personal projects. Their ability to move forward offers a case study in navigating personal crises under public scrutiny. Follow Jennet Conant on Twitter for updates on her work.
Meet John Conant Kroft: Steve’s Son and Rising Actor
Steve Kroft and Jennet Conant welcomed their son, John Conant Kroft, who has carved his own path in the entertainment industry. A Juilliard School graduate, John began acting in 2013, appearing in short films and theater productions. By 2025, he has gained recognition for roles in indie films, with a notable performance in a 2024 short film showcased at the Tribeca Film Festival. While his exact birth date remains private, John is estimated to be in his late 20s to early 30s.
John’s career reflects a blend of his parents’ creative and storytelling talents. In a 2024 interview, he shared, “Growing up with parents in journalism and literature taught me the power of narrative.” His work can be explored on IMDb.
Steve Kroft’s Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Steve Kroft’s net worth is estimated at $25 million, accumulated through his decades-long career at CBS. During his 60 Minutes tenure, his annual salary was reportedly $7 million, reflecting his status as a top-tier journalist. Post-retirement, Kroft has supplemented his income through speaking engagements and media consulting. His financial success underscores the lucrative potential of high-profile journalism, though he remains private about his investments.
Steve Kroft’s Age, Height, and Weight
Born on August 22, 1945, in Kokomo, Indiana, Steve Kroft is 80 years old as of 2025. His height and weight are not publicly documented, a choice that aligns with his preference for privacy regarding personal details. However, his professional demeanor on 60 Minutes—polished and authoritative—suggests a disciplined lifestyle. Kroft’s Leo zodiac sign is often associated with his charismatic on-screen presence.
Early Life and Education
Steve Kroft grew up in Kokomo, Indiana, born to Fred and Margaret Kroft. He graduated from Syracuse University in 1967 with a degree in journalism and later earned a master’s degree from Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism in 1974. His early career included reporting for the Armed Forces Network during the Vietnam War, where he honed his skills under pressure. This experience shaped his investigative style, evident in his later 60 Minutes work.
Steve Kroft’s Biography: Key Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Stephen F. Kroft |
| Date of Birth | August 22, 1945 |
| Age (2025) | 80 years |
| Birthplace | Kokomo, Indiana, USA |
| Zodiac Sign | Leo |
| Education | Syracuse University (1967), Columbia University (1974) |
| Spouse | Jennet Conant (married 1991) |
| Children | John Conant Kroft |
| Net Worth (2025) | $25 million |
| Salary (at 60 Minutes) | $7 million annually |
| Height | Not publicly disclosed |
| Weight | Not publicly disclosed |
| Military Service | United States Army, Vietnam War |
| Career Start | 1980 (CBS News) |
| Retirement | May 2019 (60 Minutes) |
| Awards | Lifetime Achievement Emmy, multiple Peabody Awards |
| Notable Interviews | Barack Obama, Beyoncé, Jon Bon Jovi, Julian Assange |
| Social Media | Limited presence; follow CBS 60 Minutes for updates |
Unique Insights: Kroft’s Legacy and Modern Journalism
Kroft’s career offers lessons for today’s journalists. His ability to secure interviews with elusive figures like Julian Assange highlights the importance of persistence. In a 2023 podcast, Kroft reflected, “The key to a great interview is listening, not just asking.” His work on 60 Minutes set a standard for investigative reporting, blending storytelling with accountability.
Moreover, Kroft’s navigation of the 2015 affair scandal provides a real-world example of personal accountability. Unlike many public figures, he addressed the issue head-on, preserving his professional reputation. This transparency contrasts with the often opaque responses in modern media scandals, offering a model for crisis management.
Conclusion
Steve Kroft’s journey—from a Vietnam War reporter to a 60 Minutes legend—reflects a commitment to journalism’s core values. His marriage to Jennet Conant, their son John Conant Kroft’s rising career, and Kroft’s $25 million net worth paint a picture of a multifaceted life. At 80, Kroft remains a respected figure, contributing to journalism education and public discourse. For the latest updates, follow 60 Minutes on X or visit CBS News.
