Andrew Ross Sorkin: Journalist, Author of “Too Big To Fail,” & CNBC Star

Explore the World of Andrew Ross Sorkin: Author, Journalist, & TV Personality

Andrew Ross Sorkin is a prominent figure in the world of financial journalism. He is a financial columnist for The New York Times and a co-anchor of CNBC’s Squawk Box.

He is also the founder and editor of DealBook, a financial news service published by The New York Times.

Sorkin is a graduate of Cornell University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication.

He began his career as a reporter for The New York Times in 1995, while still in high school. He has since written for a number of other publications, including The Wall Street Journal and The New Republic.

In addition to his work as a journalist, Sorkin is also the author of several books, including Too Big to Fail: The Inside Story of How Wall Street and Washington Fought to Save the Financial System and Themselves, which chronicled the events of the 2008 financial crisis.

He co-produced an HBO adaptation of the book, which was nominated for 11 Emmy Awards. He is also co-creator of Showtime’s drama series Billions.

Sorkin has won numerous journalistic honors, including two Gerald Loeb Awards, the highest honor in business journalism. He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.

Early Life and Education:

Andrew Ross Sorkin was born on February 19, 1977, in New York City.

He is the son of Joan Ross Sorkin, a playwright, and Laurence T. Sorkin, a partner at the law firm Cahill Gordon & Reindel.

Sorkin grew up in Scarsdale, New York, and graduated from Scarsdale High School in 1995.

He went on to attend Cornell University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Communication in 1999.

During his time at Cornell, he was a member of the Sigma Pi fraternity, Mu Chapter.

His early exposure to journalism began during his high school years when he joined The New York Times as a student intern.

He continued to contribute to the paper throughout his college years, publishing 71 articles before graduating.

Career:

Sorkin began his journalism career while still in college, interning at The New York Times.

He joined the paper full-time after graduation, focusing on mergers and acquisitions.

In 2001, he founded DealBook, a newsletter that provides updates and analysis on the financial world, which has since evolved into a comprehensive financial news website.

His 2009 book, Too Big to Fail, received critical acclaim and was adapted into an HBO film in 2011, for which Sorkin served as co-producer.

Additionally, he co-created the Showtime series “Billions,” which explores the dynamics of finance and power in New York.

The New York Times:

Upon joining The New York Times full-time in 1999 after his graduation, Sorkin’s career quickly began to flourish.

He initially worked as a reporter based in London, covering European mergers and acquisitions.

This role provided him with a rich understanding of the global financial landscape and exposed him to significant corporate deals and strategies.

A year later, in 2000, Sorkin returned to New York, where he took on the role of the chief mergers and acquisitions reporter.

His reporting during this period has been credited with breaking major stories about mergers, acquisitions, and corporate bankruptcies.

Notable deals he covered include Chase’s acquisition of J.P. Morgan, Hewlett-Packard’s merger with Compaq, and the sale of IBM’s PC business to Lenovo.

His insight and detailed reporting earned him a reputation as a leading voice in financial journalism.

DealBook:

In 2001, recognizing the growing importance of digital media and the need for timely financial news updates, Sorkin founded DealBook.

This became one of the first financial news services to be published exclusively online, offering readers a mix of original reporting and curated content about major financial news, market trends, and mergers and acquisitions.

DealBook quickly established itself as a trusted source for financial professionals and enthusiasts.

Under Sorkin’s leadership, it has won several awards and accolades for its comprehensive and insightful coverage.

The success of DealBook cemented Sorkin’s reputation not only as a skilled journalist but also as a pioneering editor and media entrepreneur.

CNBC – Squawk Box:

Andrew Ross Sorkin has also made significant contributions to broadcast journalism. He co-anchors CNBC’s morning show, “Squawk Box.”

The program is known for its in-depth analysis of financial markets and interviews with key industry figures.

As a co-anchor, Sorkin brings his extensive knowledge of finance, sharp analytical skills, and engaging interviewing style to the show.

His presence on “Squawk Box” has further expanded his influence and reach in the world of financial journalism.

Here are some of Andrew Ross Sorkin’s notable coverage highlights:

Financial Crises:

• 2008 Financial Meltdown: In-depth coverage of the collapse of Bear Stearns, Lehman Brothers, and subsequent government bailouts.

Major Mergers and Acquisitions:

• Chase’s acquisition of J.P. Morgan

• Hewlett-Packard’s acquisition of Compaq

• IBM’s sale of its PC business to Lenovo

• Vodafone’s $183 billion bid for Mannesmann

• Boston Scientific’s $25 billion acquisition of Guidant

• Symantec’s $13 billion deal for Veritas Software

Investigative Reports:

• Tax Policies & Loopholes: Uncovering tax provisions like the carried interest provision for private equity.

Insider Perspectives:

• Interviews and Behind-the-Scenes: Insightful interviews with CEOs, politicians, and industry leaders, providing a comprehensive understanding of major financial decisions.

Technology and Business:

• Tech Mergers & Acquisitions: Coverage of key deals in the tech industry that shaped the market.

Andrew Ross Sorkin has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout his career:

• Gerald Loeb Awards: Awarded twice for excellence in business journalism.

• Emmy Award: Won for Outstanding Live Interview.

• Cable Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2025 for his significant contributions to journalism.

• World Economic Forum Young Global Leader: Recognized for his influence and leadership in financial journalism.

Andrew Ross Sorkin has been collaborating with several esteemed colleagues at CNBC, particularly on the show “Squawk Box.”

Here are some of his notable colleagues:

• Joe Kernen: Co-anchor of “Squawk Box,” Joe brings his extensive experience in financial journalism and market analysis to the show.

• Becky Quick: Another co-anchor of “Squawk Box,” Becky is renowned for her insightful interviews with leading financial and political figures.

• Scott Wapner: Host of “Fast Money Halftime Report,” he frequently joins the discussion on “Squawk Box” to provide his market insights.

• Melissa Lee: Anchor and reporter, known for her deep knowledge of the financial sector, also appears on “Squawk Box.”

• Jim Cramer: Host of “Mad Money,” he often shares his enthusiastic stock picks and market opinions on the show.

These colleagues help make “Squawk Box” an engaging and informative program for its viewers.

Financial Status:

Andrew Ross Sorkin has an estimated net worth of approximately $12 Million. This substantial net worth is a result of his extensive career in journalism, authorship, and television.

Sources of Income:

• Journalism: Sorkin’s long-standing role at The New York Times, where he serves as a financial columnist and editor-at-large for DealBook, likely contributes significantly to his net worth.

• Television: As a co-anchor on CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Sorkin earns a substantial salary. Although the exact figure is not publicly disclosed, top anchors at CNBC often earn significant salaries, which contributes to his overall wealth.

• Authorship: His bestselling book “Too Big to Fail,” which was also adapted into an HBO film, has added to his financial success. Book sales and related royalties have likely been a considerable source of income.

• Television Production: Sorkin’s role as a co-creator of the Showtime series “Billions” has also contributed to his wealth. The financial success and popularity of the show have provided him with additional income streams.

Salary:

• CNBC – “Squawk Box”: While the exact figures are not publicly the disclosed, top anchors at CNBC, with profiles similar to Sorkin’s, typically earn substantial salaries often estimated at $1 Million or more annually.

• Other Earnings: Additional speaking engagements, consulting roles, and contributions to various media outlets and projects also add to his salary and overall financial status.

These elements combined highlight the diverse and successful nature of Andrew Ross Sorkin’s career, contributing to his impressive financial standing.

Personal Life:

Here are some details about Andrew Ross Sorkin’s personal life:

• Age: Andrew Ross Sorkin was born on February 19, 1977, making him 48 years old as of 2025.

• Zodiac Sign: He was born under the zodiac sign Aquarius.

• Ethnicity: Sorkin is of Jewish descent.

• Nationality: He holds American nationality.

• Relationship Status: Andrew Ross Sorkin is married.

Wife:

Andrew Ross Sorkin married Pilar Jenny Queen, a distinguished literary agent at United Talent Agency (UTA), in 2007.

Pilar, the daughter of prestigious fashion editor Bobbi Queen, has carved out an impressive career of her own.

Together, they have three children: twins Max and Henry, and their youngest, Sydney, who was born on January 4, 2017.

Andrew Ross Sorkin and Pilar Queen have three children:

• Max Sorkin: One of their twin sons.

• Henry Sorkin: The other twin son.

• Sydney Sorkin: Their youngest child, born on January 4, 2017.

Sorkin’s family life adds a personal dimension to his public persona, showcasing his role not only as a prominent journalist but also as a dedicated husband and father.

Physical Attributes:

Here are some details about Andrew Ross Sorkin’s physical description:

• Height: Approximately 6 feet 3 inches (190 cm) tall.

• Weight: Around 132 lbs (60 kg).

• Distinguishing features: Sorkin is known for his dark brown hair and brown eyes. He also often sports a clean-shaven look.

Social Media Activity:

Andrew Ross Sorkin is active on social media:

• Twitter: You can find him on Twitter, where he frequently shares insights on financial news, his latest articles, and commentary on current events.

• Instagram: Although he doesn’t have a verified Instagram account, he occasionally appears in posts related to “Squawk Box” and other professional engagements.