What is Kennedy Montgomery's net worth and salary?
Kennedy Montgomery is an American political commentator, radio personality, and former MTV VJ who has a net worth of $4 million.
Kennedy Montgomery, also known professionally as simply "Kennedy," has established herself as a distinctive voice in American media across multiple decades and platforms. Beginning her career as an alt-rock VJ on MTV in the 1990s, she successfully transformed herself from a Generation X icon into a respected political commentator and libertarian voice. Her trajectory from hosting MTV's "Alternative Nation" to becoming a Fox Business Network anchor and radio personality demonstrates her adaptability and enduring appeal. Known for her quick wit, irreverent humor, and ability to tackle both pop culture and serious political discourse, Kennedy has maintained relevance by evolving with the media landscape while staying true to her iconoclastic personality. Her career spans entertainment, politics, and business news, making her one of the few media personalities to successfully bridge these diverse domains.
Early Life and Education
Born Lisa Kennedy Montgomery on September 8, 1972, in Indianapolis, Indiana, she spent most of her youth in Oregon. Growing up in Lake Oswego, she developed an early interest in both politics and popular culture. Kennedy attended the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she studied Philosophy. During her college years, she began developing her media skills by working at the campus radio station, foreshadowing her future career in broadcasting.
(Photo by Monica Schipper/FilmMagic)
MTV Years and Rise to Fame
Kennedy became a household name in 1992 when she joined MTV as the host of "Alternative Nation." The show aired during the height of the alternative rock movement, and she quickly became one of the most recognizable faces of 1990s music television. Her signature style – complete with thick-rimmed glasses and sardonic humor – made her stand out among her VJ peers. During this period, she interviewed numerous influential musicians and became known for her unfiltered, occasionally controversial interview style.
Political Commentary and Media Evolution
After leaving MTV in 1997, Kennedy began to focus more explicitly on political commentary, drawing on her libertarian beliefs. She contributed to various radio programs and written publications, including serving as a contributor to Reason magazine. Her political evolution included hosting Fox Business Network's "Kennedy" show from 2015 to 2023, where she brought her characteristic wit to discussions of politics, business, and culture. She has also appeared regularly on other Fox News programs, offering commentary on current events and political issues.
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Personal Life and Other Ventures
Beyond her television work, Kennedy has authored multiple books, including "The Kennedy Chronicles: The Golden Age of MTV Through Rose-Colored Glasses" (2013), which provides an insider's perspective on her MTV years. She has maintained a presence in radio, hosting shows on various stations including KFI AM 640 in Los Angeles. She has balanced her media career with personal interests including mountain biking and snowboarding, often incorporating these passions into her public persona.
She has two daughters with ex-husband Dave Lee, a former professional snowboarder. In the 1990s, she dated Goo Goo Dolls frontman John Rzeznik. Rzesnik has said the band's song "Name" was written about her.
