Tucker Carlson’s recent activities have kept him firmly in the media spotlight, sparking debates and drawing strong reactions from political figures, the press, and the public. Over the July Fourth holiday, Carlson announced that he had conducted a rare, exclusive interview with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. This interview triggered immediate controversy; Texas Congressman Dan Crenshaw, Senator Ted Cruz, and radio host Mark Levin were among those who sharply criticized Carlson for engaging directly with the leader of a government they characterize as hostile to the United States. In response, Carlson released a video defending his decision, explaining that his aim was to offer direct journalism and candidly engage with world leaders—an approach he compared to past journalistic interviews with controversial global figures.

Carlson continues to amplify his profile with the growing success of the Tucker Carlson Network. He recently completed the buyout of his initial investors to assume full ownership, a move promoted as empowering greater editorial independence and creative control. Reports from Spreaker indicate this strategy is part of Carlson’s broader ambition to reinvent right-leaning media outside the constraints of cable television, with the network adopting a subscriber-based business model and eschewing traditional advertisers. High-profile interviews remain central to his programming, with recent guests including Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Tulsi Gabbard, and Russell Brand. These conversations frequently explore shifting political dynamics, especially the evolving relationships within and between America’s major parties.

Live engagements remain a significant part of Carlson’s media strategy. His “Tucker Carlson Live Tour” is underway, featuring events in major cities and frequent appearances with controversial public figures such as Russell Brand. These gatherings are marketed as both opportunities for Carlson’s audience to engage directly and as platforms for unfiltered commentary on current events.

On the political front, Carlson has attracted attention for his ongoing coverage and apparent support for the “Project 2025” conservative policy blueprint, though industry analysts have observed that he does not always name the initiative outright. Outlets like the Brookings Institution have analyzed Project 2025’s ambitions and its polarizing influence on U.S. political debate, while Carlson’s alignment with such plans has intensified scrutiny over his role in shaping the direction of conservative politics.

Recent content and interviews from Carlson have often become lightning rods for criticism. In a recent podcast, he ignited controversy by discussing the potential role of Israeli intelligence in the Jeffrey Epstein case—a claim that quickly reverberated across both traditional and social media and prompted heated reactions regarding the responsibilities and choices of influential media personalities.

Carlson’s business and media influence also continues to grow. Alongside partner Neil Patel, he is reportedly seeking investment for a new venture designed to blend free short-form content with paid, in-depth programming—a move that could further expand his already substantial digital reach. Reports indicate the Tucker Carlson Network is now profitable, fueled by direct subscriptions and loyal audiences on platforms like X, formerly known as Twitter, where his videos consistently draw among the largest political audiences online.

Carlson remains highly active as a speaker at high-profile conservative conferences, most recently appearing at Turning Point USA’s 2025 Student Action Summit. His questions and remarks at these events are frequently reported as both challenging and combative, sparking spirited responses from guests and furthering Carlson’s reputation as an unpredictable and provocative figure within the movement. At a recent event, for...