Taylor Rooks, a trailblazing American sports journalist, continues to captivate audiences with her insightful interviews and dynamic presence in sports media. As of 2025, Taylor Rooks’ age is 33 years old, born on May 22, 1992, in St. Louis, Missouri. Her net worth is estimated at $1–2 million, driven by her roles at Bleacher Report, TNT Sports, and Amazon Prime Video. She married Shane Fowler in July 2025, keeping her personal life private. This article dives into her career, salary, dating history, height, weight, and personal details, offering fresh insights into her journey.
Early Life and Background: Taylor Rooks’ Roots
Growing up in a sports-centric family, Taylor Rooks was destined for greatness. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, and raised in Suwanee, Georgia, she graduated from Peachtree Ridge High School in 2010. Her father, Thomas Rooks, a legendary running back for the Illinois Fighting Illini, and her great-uncle, Lou Brock, a St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Famer, instilled a passion for athletics. Her uncle, Marv Woodson, played in the NFL, and her brother, Ryan Rooks, was a swimmer and cheerleader. Taylor’s height of 5 feet 9 inches and weight of approximately 59 kg complement her commanding on-screen presence.
At the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, she majored in broadcast journalism, honing her skills early. By 19, she was covering national recruiting stories for Scout.com, breaking news on talents like Jalen Brunson and Jayson Tatum. Her internships with the PGA Tour, Comcast SportsNet Chicago, and Fox Sports shaped her multifaceted approach to journalism.
Career Milestones: Taylor Rooks’ Rise in Sports Media
Taylor Rooks’ career is a testament to her relentless drive. Starting at Scout.com (2012–2014), she gained national attention for her recruiting coverage. In 2014, she joined the Big Ten Network as an on-air host, appearing on BTN Live and Women’s Sports Report. Her ability to connect with fans via social media set her apart. By 2016, she was a sideline reporter for CBS Sports Network and later joined SportsNet New York (SNY), hosting TimeOut With Taylor Rooks.
In 2018, Rooks moved to Bleacher Report, where her show, Take It There With Taylor Rooks, became a viral sensation. Her interviews with stars like Kevin Durant and Shaquille O’Neal showcased her knack for authentic, relatable conversations. In 2022, she joined Amazon Prime Video as a feature reporter for Thursday Night Football. By 2025, she became the primary host for Amazon’s NBA coverage, working alongside Dirk Nowitzki and Blake Griffin, marking a pinnacle in her career.
Her salary is estimated at $500,000 annually, supplemented by sponsorships and speaking engagements. Her ability to ask daring questions has earned her an Emmy nomination and praise from The New York Times for interviews that “go viral.”
Net Worth and Financial Insights
Taylor Rooks’ net worth in 2025 ranges from $1–2 million, reflecting her diverse income streams. Her work with Bleacher Report, TNT Sports, and Amazon Prime Video forms the core of her earnings. Additional revenue comes from brand endorsements and her role as a keynote speaker with the Harry Walker Agency. She owns a luxurious New York City apartment and drives a Mercedes-Benz, reflecting her stylish yet practical lifestyle.
Her financial journey offers a case study in leveraging media presence. Unlike many journalists, Rooks has capitalized on social media, with over 181,000 Twitter followers (@TaylorRooks) and 374,000 Instagram followers (@taylorrooks). Her strategic use of platforms like YouTube for Taylor Rooks X amplifies her brand, a lesson for aspiring journalists in the digital age.
Married Life and Dating History
Taylor Rooks married Shane Fowler on July 19, 2025, in a private ceremony at Gotham Hall, New York City. The no-phones event, attended by stars like Kevin Durant and Saquon Barkley, emphasized her commitment to privacy. She wore Monique Lhuillier gowns, and Fowler donned a custom CADRÆ suit. Their first dance to Lauryn Hill’s “Nothing Even Matters” was a highlight.
Before her marriage, Rooks’ dating life sparked curiosity. In 2015, she was linked to NBA player Kendall Marshall, though neither confirmed the relationship. In 2018–2019, she dated actor Jesse Williams, known for Grey’s Anatomy. Rumors also swirled about NFL star Odell Beckham Jr. and Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey, but Rooks denied these, stating, “The internet has never once been right about anyone I’m dating.” Her focus on privacy underscores her professionalism.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Rooks is deeply committed to empowering women in journalism through her Taylor Rooks Foundation. She frequently speaks at panels, inspiring the next generation. Her close family ties, especially with her father, Thomas, are evident on her Instagram, where she shares heartfelt moments. Despite her busy schedule, she prioritizes fitness, maintaining her weight of 59 kg through a balanced diet and exercise.
Her cultural impact extends beyond sports. In a 2021 Wealthsimple interview, she discussed navigating the industry as a young Black woman, saying, “Being relatable allows athletes to open up, creating authentic conversations.” This perspective has made her a role model for diversity in media.
Taylor Rooks Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Taylor Lynn Rooks |
| Age | 33 years (born May 22, 1992) |
| Birthplace | St. Louis, Missouri, USA |
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) |
| Weight | 59 kg (130 lbs) |
| Education | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Broadcast Journalism) |
| Parents | Thomas Rooks, Stephanie Rooks |
| Siblings | Ryan Rooks |
| Notable Relatives | Lou Brock (great-uncle), Marv Woodson (uncle) |
| Marital Status | Married to Shane Fowler (July 19, 2025) |
| Net Worth | $1–2 million (2025 estimate) |
| Salary | Approximately $500,000 annually |
| Career Start | 2012 (Scout.com) |
| Current Roles | Host for Amazon Prime NBA, Bleacher Report, TNT Sports, Thursday Night Football |
| Notable Shows | Take It There With Taylor Rooks, Taylor Rooks X |
| Social Media | Twitter: @TaylorRooks, Instagram: @taylorrooks |
| Philanthropy | Taylor Rooks Foundation for women in journalism |
Unique Insights and Future Outlook
Rooks’ ability to blend journalism with cultural relevance sets her apart. Her interviews don’t just cover sports; they explore athletes’ humanity, making her a pioneer in modern sports media. For example, her conversation with Kevin Durant on mental health sparked widespread discussion, highlighting her influence beyond the court.
Looking ahead, Rooks is poised for greater impact. Potential book deals and expanded digital media projects could elevate her net worth further. Her role in Amazon’s NBA coverage, starting in the 2025–26 season, positions her as a leader in a competitive field. Her story teaches aspiring journalists the power of authenticity and strategic branding.
For more details, visit her Wikipedia page, follow her on Twitter or Instagram, or explore her work on Bleacher Report.
