In a strategic move to engage with the elusive Gen-Z demographic, Fox News has announced the signing of Brett Cooper, a 23-year-old conservative podcaster and social media influencer, as a network contributor. The network made their announcement on Wednesday, emphasizing Cooper's "grounded perspective, sharp wit, and distinctive takes" as key reasons for her inclusion in the Fox News family. Cooper's first appearance as an official contributor was on The Will Cain Show at 4 pm EST, marking her entry into the network's programming.
This move arrives at a crucial time for traditional cable news networks, which have been facing considerable challenges in reaching younger audiences. A Morning Consult poll demonstrated that only about 27 to 30 percent of Gen-Z viewers tune into broadcast or cable news weekly. In contrast, 63 percent of this demographic reportedly get their news from social media platforms, indicating a significant shift in news consumption habits. Cooper, who has built a strong following on social media, represents Fox News' effort to bridge this gap.
Before joining Fox News, Cooper was known for her role as a host at the Daily Wire. Her recent signing is part of a limited but strategic effort by the network to bring in young talent, including Riley Gaines, a former collegiate swimmer and activist for women's sports.
Cooper's journey began in her hometown of Chattanooga, Tennessee, before she relocated to Los Angeles at the tender age of 10 to pursue opportunities in the entertainment industry. In a bold move during her teenage years, Cooper sought and was granted legal emancipation at age 15, which allowed her to navigate her career path with greater independence. Her academic achievements are notable; she holds an English literature degree from UCLA and completed a minor in business at UC Berkeley's Haas School of Business. This blend of liberal arts and business education has contributed to her analytical approach to commentary.
The Post Millennial reported that Cooper's personal life has also seen significant developments. Recently married to Alex Tombul in April 2024, the couple is now expecting their first child. Cooper's announcement of her pregnancy to her followers adds a new dimension to her public persona, as she and her husband currently live on a farm outside Nashville, Tennessee.
Cooper's transition from the Daily Wire to Fox News has not been without controversy. Reports from Resist the Mainstream indicated that her departure from the Daily Wire may have been due to a purported dispute with co-founder Jeremy Boreing. Following Boreing's resignation, Cooper's cryptic social media response and the subsequent reactions from the public and fellow commentators, such as Candace Owens, suggest a complex and potentially tumultuous exit.
