Introduction
In the fast-paced world of broadcast journalism, CB Cotton has emerged as a formidable force. Known for her incisive reporting and commanding presence, Cotton’s journey from local newsrooms to the national stage at Fox News captivates audiences and aspiring journalists alike. While her age—32 years old as of 2024—places her among a new generation of media leaders, her accomplishments reveal a veteran’s expertise. This article explores her background, career milestones, and the principles driving her success, offering a comprehensive portrait of a journalist reshaping how America consumes news 18.
Early Life and Background
Full Name and Roots
Born Caresse Bathsheba Cotton on August 15, 1992, in North Carolina, she adopted the professional moniker “CB Cotton” for its brevity and memorability. Raised in a supportive family environment, her Southern upbringing instilled a strong work ethic and a passion for storytelling. Cotton’s early exposure to community dynamics in North Carolina profoundly influenced her journalistic approach, emphasizing human-centered narratives and accountability 1.
Educational Foundation
Cotton pursued broadcast journalism at Elon University, immersing herself in student media and internships. Here, she mastered technical skills—from filming to editing—and developed a flair for investigative reporting. Notably, she also attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, earning a Bachelor of Arts in broadcast and electronic journalism. Her academic rigor, combined with fluency in Spanish, positioned her for a versatile career 18.
Career Journey: From Local News to National Spotlight
Early Roles and Investigative Grit
Cotton began as a multimedia journalist at WKRN-TV (Nashville) and later served as bureau chief for WITN-TV in Jacksonville, North Carolina. In these roles, she covered high-impact events:
- Natural disasters like Hurricane Matthew and Tennessee’s 2020 tornadoes.
- Social justice stories, including the police shooting of Daniel Hambrick and protests following Elijah McClain’s death.
Her Emmy-nominated coverage of 2020’s racial justice demonstrations highlighted her ability to navigate complex, emotionally charged stories 813.
Breakthrough in Denver
As lead nightside reporter for Denver’s KMGH-TV (2020–2023), Cotton tackled crime, law enforcement, and breaking news. Key assignments included:
- The Boulder supermarket shooting (2021), delivering real-time updates amid chaos.
- The Marshall Fire (2021), Colorado’s most destructive wildfire.
- Investigations into police misconduct, such as the violent arrest of Karen Garner.
Her fearless reporting earned accolades for balancing empathy with hard-hitting analysis 813.
Fox News Era and National Influence
Correspondent Role
In February 2023, Cotton joined Fox News as a New York-based correspondent. Tasked with covering national breaking news, she quickly became a fixture during major events, blending live reporting with in-depth interviews. Her segments on flagship programs showcase her skill in distilling complex issues into accessible narratives 813.
Awards and Recognition
Beyond her 2020 Emmy nomination, Cotton’s accolades underscore her versatility. She is praised for:
- Journalistic integrity: Maintaining neutrality in polarized stories.
- Technical prowess: Handling scripting, editing, and live broadcasting seamlessly.
- Community impact: Amplifying marginalized voices in law enforcement and disaster coverage 113.
Personal Life: Privacy and Principles
Guarding Privacy
Cotton deliberately shields her personal life from public scrutiny. No verified information exists about her marital status or relationships, reflecting her belief that journalism should focus on stories—not storytellers. She resides in New York City, channeling energy into her career and mentorship roles 1.
Salary and Professional Value
While her exact salary is undisclosed, industry standards suggest an estimated $100,000–$200,000 annually for Fox News correspondents. This reflects her experience, the network’s prominence, and the demands of national news coverage 1.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is CB Cotton’s real name and age?
Born Caresse Bathsheba Cotton on August 15, 1992, she is 32 years old as of 2024 and will turn 33 in August 2025 1. - Where did CB Cotton study journalism?
She attended Elon University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, earning degrees in broadcast journalism 18. - What is her role at Fox News?
As a correspondent since February 2023, she covers breaking news from the network’s New York headquarters 8. - Is CB Cotton married?
She keeps her personal life private; no information about a husband or marital status is publicly available 1. - What awards has she won?
She received an Emmy nomination for her 2020 social justice protest coverage and has been recognized for investigative reporting 813.
Conclusion
CB Cotton represents a new era in journalism—one where authenticity, versatility, and ethical rigor converge. At just 32, her trajectory from local crime beats to Fox News’ national desk illustrates the power of relentless curiosity and community-centered storytelling. As she continues to inform millions, Cotton’s work reminds us that impactful journalism isn’t just about reporting events; it’s about illuminating the human stories within them. Her journey inspires not only viewers but also future journalists eager to make their mark with integrity and innovation.
For further details on CB Cotton’s reporting, visit FOX News Press or follow her segments on Fox News Channel.