Early Life and Background
Craig Harris Carton, born on January 31, 1969, in New Rochelle, New York, is best known for his career as a prominent American radio personality. Growing up, Carton showed an early interest in broadcasting, often participating in various activities such as play-by-play sports coverage during his high school years. He later attended Syracuse University, where he graduated with a degree in Broadcast Journalism from the prestigious S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications in 1991.
Carton has openly discussed his battle with Tourette syndrome, a condition that he was diagnosed with at an early age. Despite the challenges this posed, Carton found a way to channel his energies into a successful career in media, becoming a fixture in the broadcasting world. His early years in radio were marked by a steady rise through various positions across the country, including stints in Buffalo, Cleveland, and Philadelphia.
Breakthrough at WFAN
In 2007, Carton reached a significant milestone in his career when he joined WFAN 101.9 FM/660 AM in New York City, one of the country’s most renowned sports radio stations. This opportunity came when he was paired with Boomer Esiason, a former NFL quarterback, on the morning show. The pairing of these two personalities proved to be a successful one, with their chemistry propelling the Boomer and Carton show to new heights.
The program quickly became one of the highest-rated sports talk shows in New York, attracting a large, dedicated audience. Known for their witty banter, bold opinions, and ability to engage with their listeners, the show became a major player in the sports radio landscape. It was not just broadcast on WFAN, but also simulcast on MSG Network and later on CBS Sports Network, expanding its reach to a national audience. The success of Boomer and Carton cemented Carton’s place in the world of media, making him a household name in New York City and beyond.
Personal Life and Family
While Carton’s professional life has been well-documented, his personal life has also played a major role in his public persona. He was married to Kim Carton for several years, and the couple had children together. However, their marriage faced challenges, particularly after Carton’s legal troubles became public. In 2017, Carton’s arrest and the subsequent events had a significant impact on his family life, leading to his separation from Kim, with reports suggesting their eventual divorce.
Though Carton has kept his family life private, it is clear that his personal struggles, especially surrounding his gambling addiction, have had a profound effect on his relationships. Carton has often spoken publicly about his family, acknowledging the toll his personal issues have taken on them, while also expressing his deep love and commitment to his children.
Legal Issues and Arrest
In September 2017, Carton’s career took a dramatic turn when he was arrested by federal authorities on charges related to securities fraud and conspiracy. Carton was accused of running a fraudulent ticket resale scheme, in which he convinced investors to purchase blocks of concert tickets, promising high returns. However, the funds were allegedly used to pay off Carton’s substantial gambling debts, leading to the charges.
The news of Carton’s arrest shocked his fans and the public, as he had built a reputation as a charismatic and trusted figure in sports media. The legal proceedings that followed resulted in Carton being convicted of fraud, and in 2018, he was sentenced to 42 months in prison, a sentence that would dramatically alter the course of his career and life.
Craig Carton Time in Prison and Redemption
Carton’s time in prison was a significant turning point in his life. He was incarcerated at USP Lewisburg, a medium-security federal prison in Pennsylvania. During his time in prison, Carton took steps to rehabilitate himself, attending therapy and working on overcoming his gambling addiction. His story became one of redemption, and upon his release from prison in 2020, he made efforts to re-enter the world of media.
The public largely viewed his time in prison as a moment of reckoning for Carton. His open discussions about his addiction and legal issues only added to the complexity of his character, as he began to make efforts to rebuild both his professional reputation and personal life.
Craig Carton Return to WFAN and New Beginnings
In 2020, Carton made his return to the airwaves, teaming up once again with Evan Roberts to host Carton and Roberts on WFAN. The show was a major success, quickly becoming a top-rated program in the afternoon slot. Despite the controversy surrounding his past, Carton’s return to radio was met with enthusiasm from his loyal fan base. The chemistry between Carton and Roberts, coupled with Carton’s willingness to be transparent about his struggles, helped solidify his place back in the world of sports talk radio.
Along with his return to WFAN, Carton also branched out into other areas of media, including launching his own podcast. His podcast became an extension of his radio work, allowing him to engage with his audience on a more personal level and dive deeper into topics that resonated with him, including addiction, recovery, and personal growth.
Craig Carton Television and New Ventures
In 2022, Carton made the leap to television, signing on with Fox Sports 1 (FS1) to host a new show, The Carton Show. The show aimed to bring Carton’s unique brand of sports commentary to a broader television audience. Although the show was initially well-received, it faced challenges in terms of ratings and was eventually cancelled in 2025.
Despite the cancellation of his FS1 show, Carton’s media career continues to evolve. He remains an important figure in the sports media landscape, regularly appearing on WFAN, his podcast, and other media platforms. His journey serves as a testament to the resilience of an individual who has faced significant challenges and worked tirelessly to rebuild their career and personal life.
Craig Carton Current Status and Legacy
As of 2026, Craig Carton continues to host his radio show on WFAN and has become a symbol of second chances. His story resonates with those who have faced personal and professional setbacks, offering a message of redemption, perseverance, and growth. While his career may have been derailed by his legal issues, Carton’s ability to return to the top of his field speaks to his skill as a broadcaster and his ability to connect with his audience.
Carton’s legacy is complex, shaped by his rise to fame, his fall from grace, and his eventual return to the airwaves. For many, he remains an important figure in sports media, a reminder that even those who have fallen can rise again with hard work and determination.
Final Thoughts
Craig Carton’s career has been marked by both extraordinary success and profound personal and legal challenges. His story is one of reinvention, redemption, and resilience. From his rise as a prominent radio personality to his dramatic fall and eventual comeback, Carton has proven that with the right mindset and commitment, it is possible to rebuild a life and career after even the most challenging of circumstances. As he continues to engage with his audience through radio, television, and podcasting, Carton’s journey will likely continue to inspire those who face their own struggles, offering hope that it is never too late to turn things around.
