Charissa Thompson's Controversial Confession
Charissa Thompson, a prominent American sports broadcaster, admitted in November 2023 to fabricating sideline reports during NFL games. Despite the backlash, she remains a key figure at Fox Sports and Amazon Prime Video, even signing a long-term contract extension ahead of the 2025 NFL season.
Profile Summary
- Full Name: Charissa Jean Thompson
- Gender: Female
- Birthdate: May 4, 1982 (Age 44 as of 2026)
- Birthplace: Seattle, Washington, USA
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: Caucasian
- Hair Color: Blonde
- Eye Color: Grey
- Height: 5 feet 9 inches
- Marital Status: Divorced (currently dating Steven Cundari)
- Occupation: Sportscaster, television host, sports analyst, podcast host, interior decorator
- Net Worth: $6 million
Who Is Charissa Thompson?
Charissa Thompson is an American sports broadcaster and television host born and raised in Seattle, Washington. She grew up in a family of five, including her parents Scott and Cathy Thompson, a brother, and a sister. She built her name in sports media over two decades, becoming widely recognized as a host on Fox Sports and the NFL Network.
The Fabricated Sideline Reports
Thompson made the admission during an episode of the Pardon My Take podcast. She stated that she would make up reports when a coach was not available during halftime or when it was too late. She confessed, I was like, I didn't want to screw up the report, so I was like, I'm just going to make this up.
She added that she assumed coaches would not dispute reports built around generic observations, such as we need to stop hurting ourselves, we need to be better on third down.
The video clip went viral and drew criticism from peers, including CBS Sports' Tracy Wolfson and ESPN's Molly McGrath, who called the practice unethical. Fox Sports colleague Erin Andrews later admitted on the same podcast that she had done the same thing. Thompson later posted a clarification on Instagram, stating, I have never lied about anything or been unethical during my time as a sports broadcaster.
She explained that in the absence of coach information, she used observations from the first half to create her reports, never attributing anything directly to a player or coach.
A Career That Outlasted the Controversy
Thompson's broadcasting career began after college, when she worked as a bartender and waitress. She joined Fox Sports in 2006, initially in a non-broadcast capacity, and earned her first on-air role as a fill-in host for a Colorado Rockies show. She later became a regular host on Best Damn Sports Show Period and worked as a sideline reporter for Fox NFL and the Big Ten Network.
After leaving Fox Sports in 2010, she worked at ESPN, Versus, GSN, and the Big Ten Network. She returned to Fox in 2013 to co-host Fox Sports Live. Thompson also co-hosted the entertainment news show Extra from 2014 to 2017 and hosted the Netflix reality show Ultimate Beastmaster in 2016.
Today, she hosts Fox NFL Kickoff and contributes to Amazon Prime Video's Thursday Night Football pregame coverage. In 2025, Fox confirmed she signed a lucrative long-term contract extension alongside Erin Andrews. Thompson also co-hosts the podcast Calm Down with Erin and Charissa and runs a design company, House & Home.
Education
Thompson attended Inglemoor High School in Kenmore, Washington, where she lettered in basketball, track, and volleyball. She then attended community college in California before transferring to the University of California, Santa Barbara, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in law and society.
Net Worth and Salary
Thompson's net worth is estimated at $6 million, primarily from her hosting roles at Fox Sports and Amazon Prime Video. She also earns through brand partnerships with companies like Mercedes, Veronica Beard, and TCL, and commands between $30,000 and $50,000 per speaking engagement.
Personal Life
Thompson has been divorced twice. Her first marriage at age 24 remains undisclosed. Her second marriage was to sports agent Kyle Thousand in December 2020; she filed for divorce in April 2022, citing irreconcilable differences. She is currently in a relationship with marketing executive Steven Cundari. Thompson has spoken openly about her decision not to have children, citing past marital struggles and a desire to avoid permanent attachment.
Measurements
Thompson stands 5 feet 9 inches tall, weighs 58 kg, and has body measurements of 36-24-35. She wears dress size 4 (US) and shoe size 8 (US).
Charissa Thompson's career demonstrates resilience in the face of controversy. She remains a prominent figure in sports broadcasting, with a diverse portfolio that includes television, podcasting, and entrepreneurship.
