Who Is John McWhorter? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on October 6, 1965, John McWhorter is a prominent American linguist, author, and academic. He has made a name for himself through his extensive work in linguistics and his engaging public speaking. John, who is now 59 years old in 2025, has authored several books and articles, making significant contributions to the understanding of language and its evolution.
| Occupation | Scientists |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 6, 1965 |
| Age | 59 Years |
| Birth Place | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Libra |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
John McWhorter's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
As of 2025, John McWhorter stands around 6 feet tall and weighs approximately 175 pounds. His dynamic personality and articulate speech add to his presence, making him a recognizable figure in academic circles and media appearances. While specific body measurements are not widely published, his fit appearance reflects a commitment to personal health and well-being.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
While John McWhorter has shared some details about his personal life in past interviews, he tends to keep his family and relationship status private. As of 2025, he is believed to be dating a boyfriend, whose identity remains undisclosed to the public. John’s focus on his career and academic pursuits often overshadows his personal life, but he occasionally shares insights into his relationships through social media and public appearances.
His father, John Hamilton McWhorter IV (1927–1996), was a college administrator, and his mother, Schelysture Gordon McWhorter (1937–2011), taught social work at Temple University. He attended Friends Select School in Philadelphia and, after tenth grade, was accepted to Simon's Rock College, where he earned an AA degree.
McWhorter has described his upbringing as part of the Black middle class. He has also attributed some of his views to the Quaker school he attended as a child.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, John McWhorter's estimated net worth is around $3 million. His income primarily stems from his work as a linguist, author, and speaker, along with various academic and consulting engagements. His books and public lectures further boost his earnings, showcasing his status as a leading voice in linguistics and social commentary.
Career, Business and Investments
John McWhorter has had a prolific career that began shortly after he completed his education. He has published several influential books, including works on language, race, and culture. His career encompasses various roles, including professor at Columbia University, where he teaches linguistics.
In addition to his academic work, John is active in various media outlets, having written for major publications and engaged in thought-provoking discussions on language and society. He has also invested in educational initiatives aimed at improving linguistic awareness and literacy in underserved communities.
McWhorter taught linguistics at Cornell University from 1993 to 1995. He then became an associate professor of linguistics at the University of California, Berkeley, where he worked from 1995 until 2003. He left that position to become a senior fellow at the Manhattan Institute, a conservative think tank.
Social Network
John McWhorter maintains an active presence on social media platforms. He is particularly prominent on Twitter, where he engages with followers and shares his insights on linguistics, culture, and current events. His social media presence allows him to connect with his audience and promote discussions surrounding language and its impact on society.
McWhorter is the instructor of the courses "The Story of Human Language"; "Understanding Linguistics: The Science of Language"; "Myths, Lies and Half-Truths About English Usage"; "Language Families of the World"; "Ancient Writing and the History of the Alphabet" and "Language From A to Z" in the series The Great Courses, produced by The Teaching Company.
Education
John McWhorter earned his undergraduate degree from Simon's Rock College of Bard in 1983 before completing his Ph.D. in linguistics at Stanford University in 1993. His educational background laid the foundation for his successful career, equipping him with the knowledge and skills to become a leading figure in his field.
John Hamilton McWhorter V (born October 6, 1965) is an American linguist. He is an associate professor of linguistics at Columbia University, where he also teaches American studies and music history. He has authored a number of books on race relations and African-American culture, acting as political commentator especially in his New York Times newsletter.
