Jessica Tarlov has become a household name for viewers of Fox News, particularly as a co-host of the network’s highly rated show, The Five. Known for her sharp wit, articulate arguments, and unapologetic liberal perspective in a predominantly conservative environment, Tarlov has carved out a unique space in the world of political commentary. Her ability to hold her own against her conservative co-hosts while maintaining a respectful and engaging demeanor has earned her both admiration and criticism. However, while her on-air persona is well-known, few are aware of the fascinating background of her family, particularly the surprising professions of her parents, which have left audiences stunned. This article delves into Jessica Tarlov’s rise to prominence, her career trajectory, her personal life, and the unexpected legacy of her parents’ professional lives that has shaped her into the powerhouse she is today.

Early Life and Education

Jessica Tarlov was born on March 9, 1984, in Manhattan, New York, and raised in the trendy Tribeca neighborhood. Growing up in a vibrant, culturally rich environment, Tarlov was exposed to a world of creativity and intellectual rigor from a young age. Her parents, Mark Tarlov and Judith Roberts, were not your average Manhattan couple, and their professions played a significant role in shaping Jessica’s worldview and career aspirations.

Tarlov’s academic journey is as impressive as her on-screen presence. She graduated from Bryn Mawr College with a Bachelor of Arts in History in 2006. Her passion for understanding political systems and public policy led her to The London School of Economics and Political Science, where she earned a Master of Science in Public Policy and Administration, a Master of Research in Political Science, and a Ph.D. in Political Science and Government. This rigorous academic background equipped her with the analytical skills and deep knowledge of political systems that she brings to her commentary on Fox News.

Her time in London also included a stint working on Boris Johnson’s 2008 London mayoral campaign, where she served as a communications and digital strategist. This experience gave her early exposure to high-stakes political environments, honing her ability to craft messaging and engage with diverse audiences.

Rise to Prominence at Fox News

Jessica Tarlov’s career in media began to take shape when she returned to the United States and joined political analyst Douglas Schoen as a research assistant in 2008. Schoen, a regular Fox News contributor, recognized Tarlov’s talent and encouraged the network to bring her on air. Her first appearance on Fox News came in 2014 on Huckabee, and she quickly became a frequent guest on shows like Hannity, Your World with Neil Cavuto, Fox & Friends, and Outnumbered. In 2017, she was officially named a Fox News contributor, and by January 2022, she became a rotating co-host on The Five, the most-watched show in cable news.

As a liberal voice on a conservative-leaning network, Tarlov’s role is both challenging and essential. She provides a counterpoint to her co-hosts, including Jesse Watters, Jeanine Pirro, and Dana Perino, engaging in spirited debates while maintaining a collegial atmosphere. Her ability to articulate Democratic perspectives while navigating the often combative environment of The Five has made her a standout figure. Tarlov has said her goal is to represent the majority of American voters—pointing to the 81 million votes Democrats received in the 2020 election—and to show that ideological differences don’t have to preclude civility.

Her presence has not been without controversy. In March 2024, Tarlov faced a $30 million defamation lawsuit from Tony Bobulinski after comments she made on The Five about a Trump Super PAC allegedly paying his legal fees. She issued an on-air correction the following day, and the lawsuit was dismissed in July 2025, with Bobulinski ordered to pay her legal fees. Despite such challenges, Tarlov has remained a steadfast presence, earning praise for her resilience and professionalism.

The Surprising Professions of Jessica Tarlov’s Parents

While Jessica Tarlov’s achievements are impressive, the professions of her parents, Mark Tarlov and Judith Roberts, have shocked audiences for their unexpected ties to Hollywood and the entertainment industry, a far cry from the political arena where Jessica has made her mark.

Mark Tarlov: From Speechwriter to Hollywood Producer

Mark Tarlov (1952–2021) was a man of many talents, with a career that spanned law, politics, film production, and even winemaking. Born in 1952, he began his professional life as a speechwriter for U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice Warren Burger while still in college. After graduating, he became an attorney, working in business affairs at Warner Bros. Studios in Los Angeles. This role laid the foundation for his later transition into film production, where he made a significant impact.

Mark Tarlov produced several notable films, including Copycat (1995), The Man Who Knew Too Little (1997), Christine (1983), and Serial Mom (1994), the latter two directed by the provocative filmmaker John Waters. His work with Waters, known for his subversive and boundary-pushing films, was particularly surprising to audiences familiar with Jessica’s polished, intellectual persona. The idea that the daughter of a producer behind such unconventional films would become a leading political commentator on Fox News is a testament to the diverse influences in her life.

Later in life, Mark Tarlov ventured into winemaking, becoming a vineyard owner. His eclectic career, blending legal expertise, political involvement, and creative production, provided Jessica with a unique perspective on the intersection of media, culture, and politics. His death in July 2021 due to a long-term illness was a profound loss for Jessica, who named her first daughter’s middle name, Markie, in his honor.

Judith Roberts: Screenwriter and Entertainment Lawyer

Jessica’s mother, Judith Roberts, is equally accomplished and equally surprising in her professional background. A screenwriter and producer, Roberts is known for her work on films such as Temptation and Simply Irresistible (1999), the latter a romantic comedy starring Sarah Michelle Gellar. Before her screenwriting career, Roberts worked as an entertainment lawyer at Warner Communications, a role that required navigating the complex legal landscape of the media industry.

The couple’s purchase of a former Bazzini Nuts factory in Tribeca, which they converted into a 6,000-square-foot home and office, reflects their creative and entrepreneurial spirit. This unconventional upbringing, where Jessica and her younger sister, actress Molly Tarlov, were exposed to film sets and creative projects, shaped Jessica’s ability to think outside the box and engage with diverse audiences.

The revelation of her parents’ professions has stunned audiences, as many assumed Jessica’s background would be rooted in politics or academia, given her expertise. Instead, her family’s deep ties to Hollywood and the entertainment industry add a layer of intrigue to her story, highlighting the diverse influences that have shaped her career.

Personal Life and Balancing Motherhood

Jessica Tarlov’s personal life has also garnered attention, particularly her journey into motherhood and her marriage to Brian McKenna, a hedge fund executive. The couple met as next-door neighbors during the COVID-19 pandemic and quickly formed a bond. Tarlov announced their engagement on Fox Business’ Kennedy in April 2021, and they married shortly after. Their first daughter, Cleo Markie McKenna, was born in December 2021, followed by their second daughter, Teddy Tarlov McKenna, in April 2024.

Tarlov has been open about the challenges of balancing her demanding career with motherhood. In a 2022 interview with CARRY Media, she discussed the emotional rollercoaster of postpartum life, compounded by the grief of losing her father during her pregnancy with Cleo. She spoke of the support she found in other working mothers at Fox News and the importance of a family-oriented workplace. Her experiences resonate with many women navigating the complexities of professional and personal life, and her candor has endeared her to audiences.

Despite her public role, Tarlov and McKenna maintain a relatively private family life, sharing only occasional glimpses on social media. Her ability to juggle motherhood, a high-profile career, and public scrutiny is a testament to her resilience and determination.

Controversies and Public Perception

As a liberal commentator on Fox News, Tarlov is no stranger to controversy. Her outspoken support for Democratic figures like Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden has made her a target for criticism from conservative viewers. Social media platforms, particularly X, are filled with polarized opinions about her, with some praising her as a “national treasure” for her courage in representing liberal views, while others criticize her as a “lying Democrat.” Tarlov has acknowledged the harsh online feedback but remains undeterred, emphasizing the importance of engaging with opposing viewpoints.

In June 2025, former President Donald Trump publicly criticized Tarlov on Truth Social, calling her a “disgrace to television broadcasting” and blaming her for declining Fox News ratings. The outburst was in response to Tarlov citing unfavorable polling numbers for Trump on The Five. Despite such attacks, Tarlov has maintained her professionalism, focusing on delivering informed commentary and fostering constructive dialogue.

Her ability to remain cordial with her conservative co-hosts, including Jesse Watters and Jeanine Pirro, is a hallmark of her approach. She has described her relationships with them as friendly, even joking about Watters offering to deliver her baby. This ability to maintain personal connections despite ideological differences is a key factor in her success on The Five.

Impact and Legacy

Jessica Tarlov’s presence on Fox News has had a significant impact on the network’s dynamic, bringing a liberal perspective to a conservative audience. Her academic background, combined with her family’s creative legacy, has equipped her with a unique ability to bridge the gap between politics and media. Her work extends beyond television, as she serves as the Senior Vice President of Research and Consumer Insight at Bustle Digital Group, where she leverages her expertise in political strategy and consumer behavior to connect with Gen Z and Millennial audiences.

Tarlov’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and authenticity. From her Hollywood-adjacent upbringing to her role as a leading political commentator, she has defied expectations and carved out a space for herself in a challenging industry. Her parents’ professions—film production and screenwriting—may have surprised audiences, but they also highlight the diverse influences that have shaped her perspective.

Conclusion

Jessica Tarlov’s journey from a Tribeca loft to the set of The Five is a testament to her intelligence, determination, and ability to navigate complex environments. Her parents, Mark Tarlov and Judith Roberts, provided her with a unique blend of creative and intellectual influences that have informed her career as a political strategist and commentator. Their surprising professions in the entertainment industry add a layer of intrigue to Tarlov’s story, proving that her path to prominence was anything but conventional. As she continues to engage audiences with her sharp insights and fearless commentary, Jessica Tarlov remains a powerful voice in American media, representing not only the Democratic perspective but also the possibility of constructive dialogue in a polarized world.