Erika Kirk, born Erika Lane Frantzve on November 20, 1988, is an American businesswoman, podcaster, and philanthropist. She is widely recognized for her charitable initiatives, entrepreneurial ventures, and role in the public spotlight as the widow of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. Over the years, Erika has built a profile that blends community service, faith-driven leadership, and media presence.
Early Life and Education
Erika was born in Scottsdale, Arizona, and raised in a Catholic household. Her early years were deeply influenced by her mother, who frequently involved her in volunteer work at soup kitchens, nurturing her desire to serve the community.
She attended Notre Dame Preparatory High School, where she excelled both academically and in athletics, playing basketball and volleyball. She was honored with the Matt Arnold Sportsmanship and Teammate Awards during her time there. Erika later joined Regis University in Denver, Colorado, where she played basketball for two years before pursuing her studies at Arizona State University. At ASU, she focused on political science and international relations, further shaping her interest in leadership and global affairs.
Her academic journey also included advanced studies at Liberty University, where she obtained a Juris Master degree and a doctorate in Christian leadership in 2017.
Beauty Pageants
Erika stepped into the public eye through beauty pageants, which she saw as an avenue to make a difference in her community. In 2012, she won the title of Miss Arizona USA, coincidentally on her 23rd birthday. She went on to represent Arizona in the Miss USA pageant the same year, marking a turning point in her visibility as both a leader and a philanthropist.
Career and Philanthropy
Driven by her commitment to community service, Erika founded Everyday Heroes Like You, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting under-recognized charities. Through this initiative, she sought to highlight individuals making meaningful contributions in society.
In 2019, Erika launched the Midweek Rise Up podcast, a platform where she engages audiences with motivational and faith-based discussions. She is also the CEO of Proclaim Streetwear, a clothing brand, and founder of Bible in 365, a ministry project designed to guide people through scripture in a year.
Expanding her professional portfolio, Erika pursued a career in real estate and currently works as an agent with the Corcoran Group in New York City.
Erika Kirk Marriage to Charlie Kirk
Erika began dating Charlie Kirk, the co-founder of Turning Point USA, in 2019 while in New York City. The couple got engaged in December 2020 and later married on May 8, 2021, in Scottsdale, Arizona. Their wedding was a notable event, partly supported by Turning Point USA, coinciding with the organization’s ninth anniversary.
Throughout their marriage, Erika was a frequent presence at Charlie’s events, often seen supporting his political and advocacy work. Together, they had two children.
Recent Events
On September 10, 2025, Erika’s life took a tragic turn when her husband, Charlie Kirk, was shot and killed during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University. The incident occurred at the start of his American Comeback tour and sent shockwaves across the nation. Erika, now widowed, continues to raise their children while balancing her work in business, media, and philanthropy.
