E. Jean Carroll: A Journey of Resilience and Advocacy
E. Jean Carroll, born on December 12, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, is an American journalist, author, and advice columnist. With a career spanning several decades, Carroll has made significant contributions to the world of journalism, particularly through her iconic “Ask E. Jean” column in Elle magazine. Beyond her professional achievements, Carroll gained widespread attention for her courage in coming forward with sexual assault allegations against prominent figures, including Donald Trump and Les Moonves. In this article, we delve into E. Jean Carroll’s life, career, and her impactful role in advocating for survivors of sexual abuse.
Early Life and Career:
Elizabeth Jean Carroll, often known as E. Jean, was born to Thomas F. Carroll Jr., an inventor, and Betty Carroll, a Republican politician, on December 12, 1943. Raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Carroll attended Indiana University, where she became Miss Indiana University in 1963 and later won the Miss Cheerleader USA title in 1964.
Carroll’s early career showcased her vibrant personality and determination. She ventured into the world of journalism, making a name for herself with her unique writing style, described as “quirky,” “cheeky,” and “irreverent.” Her first-person narratives for magazines like Esquire, Outside, and Playboy demonstrated her fearless approach to storytelling.
Ask E. Jean Column:
Carroll’s most enduring contribution to journalism is her “Ask E. Jean” column, which ran in Elle magazine from 1993 to 2020. This advice column, widely read and acclaimed, tackled various aspects of life, focusing on relationships, sex, and the empowerment of women. Carroll’s distinctive opinions on relationships resonated with readers, emphasizing that women should “never never” structure their lives around men. Her column showcased a blend of humor, compassion, and straightforward advice, earning her a reputation as a fearless and entertaining advice columnist.
Television and Other Endeavors:
In addition to her print contributions, Carroll extended her reach to television. She wrote for Saturday Night Live’s twelfth season in 1986 and 1987, earning a nomination for an Emmy award in 1987. Furthermore, Carroll hosted and produced the Ask E. Jean television series from 1994 to 1996, which aired on NBC’s America’s Talking, the predecessor to MSNBC.
Carroll’s foray into the digital realm included co-founding greatboyfriends.com, an online platform where women recommended their ex-boyfriends to each other. Her innovative ideas also led to the launch of Catch27.com, a satirical take on social media. In 2007, she brought her column online with askejean.com. Later, Carroll co-founded Tawkify, a personalized matchmaking service, showcasing her adaptability to evolving media landscapes.
Sexual Abuse Allegations and Defamation Lawsuit:
E. Jean Carroll made headlines in 2019 when she accused Donald Trump and Les Moonves of sexually assaulting her in the mid-1990s. Her allegations against Trump were detailed in a 2019 book titled “What Do We Need Men For?: A Modest Proposal.” Carroll described an incident in the Bergdorf Goodman department store in New York City, alleging that Trump had forcibly kissed and raped her.
In response to these allegations, Carroll filed a defamation lawsuit against Trump in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. The lawsuit claimed that Trump damaged her reputation, harmed her professionally, and caused emotional distress by dismissing her accusations. The legal battle unfolded over several years, involving complex arguments about Trump’s official capacity and government intervention.
On May 9, 2023, a jury found Trump liable for defamation and sexual abuse against Carroll, awarding her $5 million in damages. A second jury on January 26, 2024, found Trump liable for an additional $83.3 million in damages, emphasizing the significance of holding powerful individuals accountable for their actions.
Carroll’s resilience in pursuing justice is commendable, and her case has sparked conversations about the challenges survivors face when confronting powerful figures. Despite facing legal hurdles and public scrutiny, Carroll’s determination to seek justice has become a symbol of strength for survivors of sexual abuse.
Les Moonves Sexual Assault Allegations:
E. Jean Carroll was among 13 women who accused CBS Corporation executive Les Moonves of sexual assault in 2019. Carroll alleged that the incident occurred in the late 1990s in a hotel elevator after she interviewed Moonves for a story. Moonves denied the allegations, and Carroll’s involvement in the #MeToo movement highlighted the pervasive issue of sexual misconduct in various industries.
Personal Life and Legacy:
Beyond her professional endeavors, E. Jean Carroll’s personal life reflects a journey marked by resilience and determination. She has been married twice, first to Stephen Byers and later to John Johnson, an anchorman and artist. Despite facing challenges, Carroll’s commitment to her career and advocacy work has
Remained Unwavering.
As a trailblazer in journalism and a vocal advocate for survivors of sexual abuse, E. Jean Carroll’s legacy extends beyond her writing. Her courage in confronting powerful individuals and speaking out against injustice has left an indelible mark on the #MeToo movement. Carroll’s impact is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the importance of amplifying the voices of survivors.
E. Jean Carroll’s life and career exemplify a remarkable journey of resilience, creativity, and advocacy. From her early days in journalism to her iconic “Ask E. Jean” column and her role in the #MeToo movement, Carroll has navigated challenges with tenacity. Her courage in confronting powerful individuals and seeking justice for survivors of sexual abuse has made her a symbol of strength.
As society continues to grapple with issues of sexual misconduct and power dynamics, E. Jean Carroll’s story serves as a reminder that every voice matters. By sharing her experiences and standing up against injustice, Carroll has contributed to a broader conversation about accountability, empowerment, and the ongoing fight for a more just and equitable world.