Glenn Beck (born February 10, 1964) is an American [[conservative]] political commentator, radio host, television producer, and author. He is best known for his work in radio and television, as well as for founding The Blaze, a conservative news and entertainment network. ## Early life and career Glenn Edward Lee Beck was born in Everett, Washington, and grew up in Mountlake Terrace, Washington. He faced a challenging childhood, with his parents divorcing when he was 13 and his mother passing away two years later. At the age of 8, Beck started working in radio, and by the time he was a teenager, he had secured a job at a local radio station. Beck worked as a morning radio DJ in various markets throughout the United States, such as Provo, Utah; Washington, D.C.; and New Haven, Connecticut. During this time, he struggled with substance abuse and alcoholism. In the late 1990s, Beck shifted his focus from music radio to talk radio. He started his nationally syndicated talk radio show, "The Glenn Beck Program," in 2000. The show became one of the highest-rated radio programs in the United States, reaching millions of listeners. ## TV career Glenn Beck's television career began with his eponymous show on CNN Headline News in 2006. In 2009, he moved to [[Fox News]] Channel on [[Rupert Murdoch]]'s [[conservative media]] network and hosted "Glenn Beck," a daily TV show that focused on politics, culture, and history from a conservative perspective. Despite high ratings, the show generated controversy due to Beck's commentary and views. He left Fox News in 2011. After leaving Fox News, Beck founded The Blaze (originally called GBTV), an independent [[conservative media]]company offering news, opinion, and entertainment content from a [right-wing](https://doctorparadox.net/tag/right-wing/) perspective. The Blaze TV, The Blaze Radio Network, and TheBlaze.com serve as the main outlets for the network. The Blaze has become a prominent platform for conservative voices and has expanded its reach through partnerships with cable and satellite providers. ## Books Glenn Beck is also a prolific author, having written several nonfiction books on politics and history, as well as fiction works. Some of his notable books include "The 7: Seven Wonders That Will Change Your Life," "Arguing with Idiots," "Broke: The Plan to Restore Our Trust, Truth and Treasure," and "The Overton Window." ## Personal life Beck has been open about his struggles with substance abuse and his eventual sobriety, which he achieved in 1994. He has been married twice, first to Claire Beck (1983–1994) and then to Tania Colonna (1999–present). He has four children, two from each marriage. Beck is a convert to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and his faith plays a significant role in his personal life and work. Throughout his career, Glenn Beck has been both praised and criticized for his outspoken conservative views and unique communication style. He remains an influential figure in the conservative media landscape.