Who Was Charlie Kirk? 4 Things to Know About Slain American Conservative Figure
- Charlie Kirk, a major conservative figure in America, was shot dead by a gunman while making a speech in Utah
- His death has attracted various kinds of reactions, but mostly condemnations from people across the world
- However, many people said they never knew anything about Charlie Kirk until news of his killing went viral
Gun violence took another life in the United States as a major conservative figure, Charlie Kirk, was shot dead.
Kirk was short and killed by a gunman while he was making a speech at Utah Valley University in Orem on September 10, 2025.
Source: Getty Images
Kirk's assassination came as a rude shock to conservatives in America and other people who admired his views around the world.
Some people said they do not have sympathy for the slain activist. A university staff member was sacked after making such comments online.
But who was Charlie Kirk and what did he stand for? Legit.ng presents five things to know about the late activist.
1. He was a college dropout
Charlie Kirk did not complete his education as he dropped out to devote more time to political activism.
The late 31-year-old was the son of an architect. He grew up in the well-to-do Chicago suburb of Prospect Heights.
At one time, he applied to attend West Point, the top US military academy, but was not successful.
2. Kirk was Trump's ally
Charlie Kirk was a strong conservative figure deeply admired by the president of the United States, Donald Trump.
He played a significant role in galvanising the younger generation who rallied around Trump during the 2024 US presidential election.
Trump said of him on Truth Social after he was assassinated:
"The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie."
He had earlier said of the late activist:
"I want to thank Charlie, he's an incredible guy, his spirit, his love of this country, he's done an amazing job building one of the most powerful youth organisations ever created."
Source: Getty Images
3. Who was Charlie Kirk's wife?
Charlie Kirk was married to Erika Kirk, who was a former Miss Arizona. They were married in 2021.
They have two children together. Erika Kirk is the founder of Proclaim, a faith-based clothing line, a podcast host and the founder of two non-profit organisations, per the BBC.
Erika and her husband are evangelical Christians, and she is currently pursuing a doctorate degree in Bible studies.
She posted on X on the day her husband was killed:
"Psalm 46:1 - God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."
4. What did Charlie Kirk stand for?
In his lifetime, Charlie Kirk liked to engage the public, especially young people, on issues like climate change, faith and family values.
He has particularly strong views on gun control, race, and gender, which some people find uncomfortable.
He was the founder of Turning Point USA, a non-profit organisation that mobilises young people on American campuses.
According to the website of TPUSA, the organisation encourages young people to be leaders and promote American values.
It says:
"Turning Point USA’s student program exists to educate young people about the importance of limited government, free markets, and freedom. Students are encouraged to be leaders in their communities and educate others on American ideals in a fun and compelling way."
Young boy mourns Charlie Kirk
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that a young boy joined those mourning the death of Charlie Kirk.
The boy who shared a video on Instagram said Kirk was a good man.
He said the slain activist often preached the gospel and stood for the truth.
Proofreading by Funmilayo Aremu, copy editor at Legit.ng.
Source: Legit.ng
