Emily Rose Compagno has emerged as one of the most captivating figures in conservative media, blending sharp legal acumen with charismatic on-screen presence. Born on November 9, 1979, at Oak Knoll Naval Hospital in Oakland, California, Compagno’s life story is a testament to resilience, ambition, and multifaceted talent.
As a co-host on Fox News’ “Outnumbered,” she delivers incisive commentary on politics, law, and current events, earning a devoted following for her wit and unapologetic perspective. In a media landscape often dominated by soundbites, Compagno stands out as a voice of reason, drawing from her diverse background in law, sports, and philanthropy to foster meaningful dialogue.
Raised in El Cerrito, California, by parents Katherine and John Compagno, Emily grew up in a family steeped in military tradition and cultural heritage. Her father, of Italian descent from Sicily, served as a Commander in the U.S. Navy Medical Service Corps, while her mother boasted English, Bohemian, and German roots. With two sisters, Natalie and Julietta, Compagno was immersed in a household that valued service and adventure—several relatives served in the U.S. Army, Navy, and even World War I. This upbringing instilled in her a deep respect for veterans, which later fueled her philanthropic efforts. From a young age, she exhibited leadership, captaining her high school dance team and excelling in academics.
Compagno’s educational journey laid the foundation for her illustrious career. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Washington, where she was honored with the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps’ Cadet of the Quarter Award, though she did not complete ROTC training. Pursuing her passion for justice, she obtained a Juris Doctor from the University of San Francisco School of Law in 2006. During law school, she served as president of the Federalist Society and articles editor for the Intellectual Property Bulletin, honing her analytical skills.
Post-graduation, Compagno passed the California bar and dove into criminal defense work in San Francisco. Her legal path was eclectic: she served as a Senior Judge Judicial Extern for Judge John T. Noonan at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit and as a federal attorney at the Social Security Administration, rising to Acting Director. She also gained international experience, holding legal positions in Cape Town, South Africa, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and passing the Washington bar. Beyond the courtroom, Compagno’s athletic side shone as captain of the Oakland Raiders cheerleading squad, the Raiderettes. Selected by the NFL as an ambassador, she promoted the league in Beijing and Shanghai and joined USO tours to visit troops in Iraq and Kuwait, blending her love for sports with her commitment to service.
Compagno’s transition to television began in 2018 when she joined Fox News as a contributor and legal analyst. Her expertise quickly made her a staple on shows like “The Five” and “Gutfeld!,” where she offered balanced, insightful takes on legal and political issues. In March 2020, she launched “Crimes That Changed America” on Fox Nation, exploring pivotal cases. By January 2021, she became a permanent co-host on “Outnumbered” alongside Harris Faulkner and Kayleigh McEnany, solidifying her status as a prominent conservative voice. In February 2023, she debuted “The FOX True Crime Podcast” on Fox News Radio, delving into gripping stories. As of 2025, Compagno continues to thrive, recently commenting on political “stunts masquerading as statesmanship” and promoting her New York Times bestselling book, “Under His Wings,” a faith-inspired work sharing untold stories of hope.
On a personal note, Compagno resides in New York City, embracing her Roman Catholic faith. Married to real estate agent Peter Riley since 2017—the couple tied the knot in a romantic Italian ceremony—she often highlights her role as a wife on social media. With over 500,000 Instagram followers, she shares glimpses of her life, from TV appearances to family moments. Philanthropy remains central: she’s active with nonprofits supporting U.S. veterans, law enforcement, and K9 units, reflecting her family’s military legacy.
Through her career, Compagno inspires with her intellect and empathy. In 2025, she’s on a national tour for her book, engaging audiences with themes of faith and perseverance. Whether dissecting Supreme Court rulings or advocating for veterans’ rights, she champions meaningful discourse in today’s polarized media. Emily Compagno isn’t just a TV personality—she’s a powerhouse proving that passion, preparation, and purpose can conquer any arena.
