Joe Kernen Bio
Joe Kernen is a veteran American financial journalist currently serving as the co-anchor of CNBC’s signature morning program, “Squawk Box.” Based at the network’s global headquarters in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, he is famously known by the nicknames “The Kahuna” and “The Hair.” Kernen has been a cornerstone of the network since 1991, joining through CNBC’s merger with the Financial News Network (FNN). In early 2026, he remains one of the longest-tenured and most recognizable figures in business news.
Kernen’s path to journalism was unconventional. Before entering television, he spent ten years as a successful stockbroker, rising to Vice President at both EF Hutton and Smith Barney after initial training at Merrill Lynch. He shifted to broadcasting in 1990 as a writer for FNN. When “Squawk Box” launched in 1995, Kernen was one of its original co-hosts, helping to pioneer the show’s fast-paced, irreverent style.
Beyond his anchoring, Joe is a published author. He co-wrote the 2011 book Your Teacher Said What?!: Defending Our Kids from the Liberal Assault on Capitalism with his daughter, Blake. In early 2025, he briefly stepped away from the anchor desk to undergo a gallbladder removal surgery, returning shortly after to resume his hosting duties.
Born and raised in the Western Hills of Cincinnati, Ohio, Kernen graduated from St. Xavier High School in 1974. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology from the University of Colorado and a Master’s degree in molecular biology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he specialized in cancer research.
Joe Kernen Age
How old is Joe Kernen? Kernen was born on January 6, 1956, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He is 70 years old as of early 2026. He celebrates his birthday on the 6th of January every year.
Joe Kernen Family
Joe is the son of the late Joe Blake Kernen. He often credits his upbringing in Cincinnati for his professional drive. He is an avid golfer and introduced the game to his family, often spending time on the course with his wife and children.
Joe Kernen’s Wife
Joe is married to Penelope Scott, a former commodities trader who later worked as a CNBC producer. The couple met at the network in 1996 and were married on a golf course at the Four Seasons Hualalai in Hawaii on August 26, 1998. They have one daughter, Blake, who was born in 2000. The family resides in a historic Tudor home in Short Hills, New Jersey.
Joe Kernen’s Height
Kernen stands at an approximate height of 5 feet 11 inches.
Joe Kernen Net Worth
Kernen has an estimated net worth of approximately $16 million as of 2026. His wealth is largely attributed to his 35-year tenure at CNBC, his previous decade-long career as a high-level stockbroker, and also book royalties.
Joe Kernen’s Salary
Kernen receives an estimated annual salary of approximately $3 million.
