Richard Engel’s estimated net worth in 2024 is $5 million. As NBC News’ chief foreign correspondent, Engel has built a successful career covering major international events and conflicts over the past two decades. Known for his courageous reporting from war zones and areas of unrest, Engel has become one of America’s most prominent foreign correspondents. His work has earned him numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Emmy Awards. Beyond his journalism career, Engel is also an accomplished author, having written books about his experiences reporting from the Middle East. His expertise and dedication to bringing important global stories to light have contributed significantly to his professional success and financial standing.
Richard Engel Biography Key Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Richard Engel |
| Net Worth 2024 | $5 million |
| Profession | Journalist, Author |
| Date of Birth | September 16, 1973 |
| Age in 2024 | 50 years |
| Birthplace | New York City, New York, USA |
| Gender | Male |
| Height | 6 feet (183 cm) |
| Ethnicity | Mixed (Jewish and Swedish) |
| Nationality | American |
| Parents’ Names | Nina and Peter Engel |
| Wife | Mary Forrest |
Early Life
Richard Engel was born on September 16, 1973, in New York City. Growing up on the Upper East Side, he faced challenges due to dyslexia, which initially impacted his academic performance. However, Engel’s determination and support from his family helped him overcome these obstacles. He attended Riverdale Country School and later spent his junior year of high school in Italy, where he developed fluency in Italian. This experience sparked his interest in international affairs and different cultures, setting the stage for his future career in global journalism.
Career
Engel’s journalism career began after graduating from Stanford University in 1996 with a degree in international relations. He moved to Cairo, Egypt, where he worked as a freelance reporter, learning Arabic and immersing himself in Middle Eastern culture. His big break came during the Iraq War in 2003 when he reported for ABC News as a freelance journalist in Baghdad. In May 2003, Engel joined NBC News, where he quickly rose through the ranks. He was named NBC’s Middle East correspondent and Beirut bureau chief before being promoted to chief foreign correspondent in 2008. Engel has covered major events including the Arab Spring, the Syrian Civil War, and conflicts in Afghanistan and Libya.
Richard Engel Net Worth 2024
Richard Engel’s net worth of $5 million in 2024 is primarily derived from his successful career in journalism. As NBC News’ chief foreign correspondent, Engel commands a substantial salary, estimated to be in the high six figures annually. His income is supplemented by book royalties from his published works, including “A Fist in the Hornet’s Nest” and “And Then All Hell Broke Loose.” Additionally, Engel’s speaking engagements and appearances on various news programs contribute to his overall earnings. His expertise and reputation in international reporting have made him a valuable asset to NBC, reflected in his compensation and overall net worth.
Awards and Achievements
Richard Engel’s exceptional journalism has earned him numerous prestigious awards. He has received eight News & Documentary Emmy Awards for his outstanding reporting. In 2008 and 2014, Engel was honored with Peabody Awards for his coverage of the U.S. Army’s “Viper Company” in Afghanistan and the rise of ISIS, respectively. The Medill Medal for Courage in Journalism was awarded to Engel in 2007 for his “War Zone Diary” report, making him the first broadcast journalist to receive this honor. Additionally, he received the Edward R. Murrow Award for his continuous coverage of the Syrian conflict.
Personal Life
Richard Engel’s personal life has been marked by both joy and challenges. He married Mary Forrest in May 2015, and the couple has two sons. Their first son, Henry, was born in September 2015 but was diagnosed with Rett syndrome, a rare genetic neurological disorder. Tragically, Henry passed away in August 2022 at the age of 6. Their second son, Theodore, was born in August 2019. Engel’s parents, Nina and Peter Engel have been supportive throughout his career. His father was a former Goldman Sachs financier, while his mother ran an antique store. Engel has been open about his family’s experiences, using his platform to raise awareness about Rett syndrome.
Favorite Quotes from Richard Engel
- “I think it’s a gift. I mean, who wants to think like everybody else?”
- “If you don’t take any risks, you risk losing out on life.”
- “Confidence is everything. Once you start having success, you build on success.”
- “The more I was coddled and made to feel like a person with a defect, the more angry I’d feel.”
- “Allow them to get into environments where they are on their own. Don’t coddle your kids. Let them respect their own fear. Help them find something they are good at.”
FAQs
How did Richard Engel start his journalism career?
Richard Engel began his journalism career by moving to Cairo, Egypt, after graduating from Stanford University. He worked as a freelance reporter, learning Arabic and covering Middle Eastern affairs.
What is Richard Engel’s most notable coverage?
Engel is known for his extensive coverage of the Iraq War, the Arab Spring, and the Syrian Civil War. His reporting from conflict zones has earned him numerous awards and recognition.
How many languages does Richard Engel speak?
Richard Engel is fluent in several languages, including Arabic, Italian, and Spanish. His language skills have been crucial in his work as a foreign correspondent.
What books has Richard Engel written?
Engel has authored several books, including “A Fist in the Hornet’s Nest” (2004), “War Journal: My Five Years in Iraq” (2008), and “And Then All Hell Broke Loose” (2016).
What is Richard Engel’s role at NBC News?
Richard Engel serves as the chief foreign correspondent for NBC News, a position he has held since 2008. He reports across all NBC News platforms, including NBC Nightly News, TODAY, and MSNBC.
Conclusion
Richard Engel’s net worth of $5 million in 2024 reflects his successful career as a prominent foreign correspondent and author. His journey from a young journalist in Cairo to NBC News’ chief foreign correspondent showcases his dedication, courage, and expertise in international reporting. Engel’s ability to provide insightful coverage from some of the world’s most dangerous conflict zones has not only earned him numerous awards but also a respected position in the field of journalism. Despite personal challenges, including his son’s battle with Rett syndrome, Engel continues to make significant contributions to global news coverage and raise awareness about important issues.
