Lawrence O’Donnell Biography
Lawrence O’Donnell is a well-known American television anchor, author, actor, screenwriter, and political commentator currently serving as the host The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell on MSNOW, a weekday evening show that dives deep into political analysis and opinion.
Before stepping into the spotlight, O’Donnell spent a lot of time working behind the scenes in the television industry. He was a writer and producer for the acclaimed NBC drama The West Wing, where he even made a brief appearance as President Bartlet’s father in some flashback scenes. He later created and executive produced the NBC series Mister Sterling and took on a recurring role as Lee Hatcher in the HBO series Big Love.
O’Donnell’s journey in politics kicked off in 1989 when he became an aide to U.S. Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan. He then took on the role of staff director for the Senate Finance Committee, which gave him valuable insights into the world of policymaking. He’s described his political beliefs as aligning with those of a “practical European socialist.”
In 2009, O’Donnell became a regular voice on Morning Joe, hosted by Joe Scarborough, where his passionate debate style often sparked intense discussions, including a memorable on-air confrontation with commentator Marc Thiessen. Around that same time, he also frequently filled in as a host for Countdown with Keith Olbermann.
On September 27, 2010, O’Donnell debuted The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell on MSNBC. The show briefly shifted to the 8 p.m. time slot in 2011 but returned to its 10 p.m. slot later that year, where it has become a key part of the network’s programming.
In 2017, a leaked off-air video captured O’Donnell expressing his frustration about studio conditions during a break in the broadcast. He later apologized publicly, and the person who leaked the footage was let go.
Lawrence O’Donnell Age
How old is Lawrence? He is 74 years old as of 2026. Lawrence was born on November 7, 1951, in Boston, Massachusetts, in the United States of America. In addition, Lawrence celebrates his birthday on the 7th of November each year.
Lawrence O’Donnell Education
O’Donnell was enrolled and graduated from Saint Sebastian’s School in the year 1970. While in school, Lawrence was the captain of the baseball team and wide receiver on the undefeated group. He later on attended and graduated from Harvard College majoring in economics in the year 1976. While at the college, Lawrence authored for the Havard Lampoon. In addition, he was also enrolled at Suffolk University and was awarded the Honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters.
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Lawrence O’Donnell Nationality
O’Donnell is of American nationality and citizenship. Besides, he was born and grew up in Boston, Massachusetts, in the United States of America. In addition, Lawrence belongs to the white heritage.
Lawrence O’Donnell Height | Measurements
O’Donnell approximately stands at a height of 5 feet 11 inches ( Approx. 1.80 m) tall, as Lawrence is a man of above-average stature. Nonetheless, he has not mentioned any details about his other body measurements in the public domain.
Lawrence O’Donnell Family | Parents
He was born and grew up in Boston, Massachusetts, in the United States to his mother Frances Marie, and father Lawrence Francis Sr. Besides, O’Donnell is of Irish origin and was raised in the Roman Catholic faith. In addition, his father, Francis Sr, served as an attorney while his mother worked as an office manager. Nevertheless, he has not shared if he has any siblings with the general population.
Lawrence O’Donnell Wife
He was happily married to his beloved ex-wife called Kathryn Harrold. Besides, the pair tied their wedding bunch in front of friends and family members on February 14, 1994. Furthermore, the couple is honored with a daughter called Elizabeth Buckley Harrold. However, the pair divorced in the year 2013 due to family disagreements. Indeed, there were rumors that Lawrence was dating an American journalist Tamron Hall in the year 2011.
Is there a “New Wife”?
There’s no reliable information suggesting that O’Donnell has remarried. He was previously married to actress Kathryn Harrold, but they divorced quite some time ago. Since then, he has kept his personal life mostly under wraps.
Is Lawrence O’Donnell Leaving MSNOW?
As of now, there’s no solid evidence that Lawrence O’Donnell is planning to leave MSNBC. He’s still a key player at the network and continues to host his well-established show. Like many TV personalities, he might take some time off for vacations or breaks, which can sometimes lead to speculation—but there’s no confirmed news of him stepping away.
Is The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell Being Cancelled?
Nope, The Last Word with Lawrence O’Donnell is definitely not cancelled. The show has been airing since 2010 and is still a staple of MSNBC’s primetime schedule. It continues to deliver insightful political analysis, interviews, and commentary.
Lawrence O’Donnell Salary
O’Donnell is well-known for his work as the MSNBC News journalist and the host of an MSNBC opinion and news broadcast called “The Last Word” with Lawrence O’Donnell. Therefore, his estimated annual salary is $110,000
Lawrence O’Donnell’s Net Worth
He has accumulated a decent wealth from his work as an MSNBC News correspondent and the host of an MSNBC opinion and news broadcast called “The Last Word” with Lawrence O’Donnell. Therefore, his estimated net worth is $4 million
Why is Lawrence O’Donnell Not on Tonight?
If you notice he’s missing from an episode, it’s usually for a few common reasons:
– He might be on a scheduled vacation or taking some personal time.
– There could be changes in network programming, like breaking news or special events.
– Sometimes, temporary guest hosts step in for him.
This is pretty standard for long-running news shows and doesn’t suggest anything serious.
Where is Lawrence O’Donnell Now?
Lawrence O’Donnell is still very much involved with MSNBC. When he’s not on-air, you can find him:
– Preparing segments and interviews
– Writing commentary
– Working behind the scenes on political coverage
He’s based in the U.S. and remains heavily engaged in the world of political media.
Does Lawrence O’Donnell Have a Podcast?
Currently, he doesn’t have a major standalone podcast like some of his colleagues. However, you can find clips and full episodes of his show online through MSNOW’s platforms, which serve a similar purpose to podcast-style listening.
Lawrence O’Donnell The Last Word | MSNBC News
O’Donnell became a regular correspondent and contributor on Morning Joe along with Joe Scarborough in the year 2009. Furthermore, his aggressive discussion style on that program and others prompted live confrontations. In the years 2009 and 2010, Lawrence started showing up as a frequent substitute host of Countdown along with Keith Olbermann. Additionally, he did that especially when Keith’s father was sick in the hospital. Later on, Lawrence started hosting The Last Word show on MSNBC News station on September 27, 2010, at 10 PM ET. He additionally took over the 8 PM slot program after Keith Olbermann’s unexpected end of his show known as Countdown with Keith Olbermann. Nevertheless, his show, The Last Word exchanged time slots with The Ed Show on October 24, 2011.
