Emily Compagno is a multifaceted American television host, attorney, and former NFL cheerleader, best known for her role as co-host of Outnumbered on Fox News Channel. Her diverse career trajectory—from the NFL sidelines to federal courtrooms and national television—has made her a prominent figure in conservative media.

Early Life and Education

Born on November 9, 1979, in Oak Knoll Naval Hospital, Oakland, California, Emily Rose Compagno was raised in El Cerrito, California.

Her father, John Compagno, served as a commander in the U.S. Navy Medical Corps, while her mother, Katherine Bertsch, has English, Bohemian, and German ancestry. Emily is the younger of two sisters, Natalie and Julietta. Her family’s military background deeply influenced her values and career choices.

Compagno graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Washington, where she was awarded the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps’ Cadet of the Quarter Award. She then earned her Juris Doctor from the University of San Francisco School of Law in 2006, where she served as president of the Federalist Society and articles editor of the Intellectual Property Law Bulletin.

Legal Career

After passing the California bar, Compagno began her legal career as a criminal defense attorney in San Francisco. She later worked as a Senior Judge Judicial Extern for the late Hon. John T. Noonan at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Compagno also served as a federal managing attorney and acting director at the Social Security Administration, handling complex legal issues and managing large teams. Her legal experience extended internationally, with positions in Cape Town, South Africa, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

NFL Cheerleading

In a unique blend of athleticism and legal expertise, Compagno also pursued a career as a cheerleader for the Oakland Raiders. She captained the Raiderettes and was selected as one of five NFL cheerleaders to represent the league on international tours, including visits to U.S. military bases in Iraq and Kuwait as part of a USO tour. Her role as an NFL ambassador took her to Beijing and Shanghai, promoting the NFL brand abroad.

Transition to Media

Compagno transitioned into media in 2018, joining Fox News Channel as a contributor and legal analyst. She appeared on various programs, including The Five and Gutfeld!, offering legal insights and commentary on current events. In March 2020, she began hosting Crimes That Changed America on Fox Nation, a true crime series that delves into high-profile criminal cases and their societal impact.

In January 2021, Compagno became a co-host of Outnumbered, alongside Harris Faulkner and Kayleigh McEnany. In February 2023, she was named host of The FOX True Crime Podcast with Emily Compagno on Fox News Radio.

Personal Life

Emily Compagno married Peter Riley, a real estate agent, in a private ceremony at Hotel Villa Cimbrone in Ravello, Italy, on September 13, 2017. The couple had known each other since their teenage years but reconnected years later in Seattle. Their wedding was an intimate elopement with no guests, reflecting their preference for privacy.

Advocacy and Personal Interests

Beyond her professional endeavors, Compagno is actively involved in charitable work, supporting causes related to U.S. veterans, law enforcement, and K9 units. She is a Roman Catholic and maintains a strong connection to her family’s military heritage. Compagno’s diverse background and experiences have shaped her into a versatile media personality, blending legal acumen with a unique blend of athleticism and advocacy.

Conclusion

Emily Compagno’s journey from NFL cheerleader to federal attorney and Fox News co-host exemplifies a dynamic and multifaceted career. Her ability to seamlessly transition between diverse fields—law, sports, and media—has solidified her status as a prominent figure in conservative media. With her legal expertise, engaging personality, and commitment to advocacy, Compagno continues to make a significant impact in her various roles.