Kyle Howard Rittenhouse was born on January 3, 2003, in Antioch, Illinois, to parents Michael and Wendy Rittenhouse. He has an older sister and a younger sister. His parents separated when he was around 11. Growing up in a modest home, Kyle showed early interest in public service, joining cadet programs with the local police and fire departments. He often expressed ambitions to work in law enforcement or emergency response. In this article, we will explore who is Kyle Rittenhouse, covering his early life, family background, physical appearance, net worth, social media presence, and the legal journey that brought him into the national spotlight.
Quick Bio:
| Full Name | Kyle Howard Rittenhouse |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 3, 2003 |
| Age (2025) | 22 years |
| Birthplace | Antioch, Illinois, USA |
| Parents | Michael Rittenhouse, Wendy Rittenhouse |
| Siblings | Two sisters |
| Height | 5′ 8″ (173 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 150 lb (68 kg) |
| Eye Color | Green |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Education | Attended Lakes Community High School |
| Occupation | Firearms retail worker |
| Net Worth | Approx. $50,000 (2025) |
| Current Residence | Florida, USA |
Early Life and Education
Kyle attended Lakes Community High School before switching to online classes and ultimately leaving school in 2018. During his teenage years, he worked part-time as a lifeguard at a YMCA and joined various youth cadet programs. He frequently voiced support for law enforcement through social media and local involvement. His early life reflected a combination of community involvement, responsibility, and interest in civic duty despite family and financial struggles.
The Kenosha Incident
In August 2020, protests erupted in Kenosha, Wisconsin, following the police shooting of Jacob Blake. Seventeen-year-old Kyle traveled from his Illinois home to Kenosha, carrying a rifle and joining civilians claiming to protect businesses from damage. That night, he fatally shot Joseph Rosenbaum and Anthony Huber and wounded Gaige Grosskreutz. These incidents became central to a national debate on gun rights, public safety, and the role of armed civilians during protests.
The Trial and Verdict
Kyle faced several charges, including first-degree intentional homicide and attempted homicide. His defense claimed he acted in self-defense when attacked by the men he shot. The trial, held in November 2021, became one of the most closely watched in the U.S. After days of testimony and intense public scrutiny, the jury found him not guilty on all counts on November 19, 2021. The verdict sparked widespread reactions across political and social lines.
Life After the Trial
After the trial, Kyle remained active in media and advocacy circles, particularly among conservative audiences. He started a YouTube channel and launched the “Media Accountability Project” to counter what he described as misinformation. Financially, he faced challenges as most legal donations were used for defense and civil litigation. He reportedly works in a firearms retail business in Florida while dealing with ongoing civil lawsuits related to the Kenosha shootings.
Public Perception and Controversy
Kyle’s name continues to divide public opinion. Supporters view him as a symbol of self-defense and constitutional rights, while critics see him as an example of reckless vigilante behavior. His trial intensified debates about race, policing, and the Second Amendment. His image remains widely circulated in social media discussions and political messaging, illustrating how one event can shape a lasting national controversy.
Current Life and Outlook
As of 2025, Kyle Rittenhouse is 22 years old. He continues to live relatively quietly, focusing on work and his nonprofit advocacy foundation. His educational goals remain unclear, though he once expressed interest in returning to school. Despite the quieter lifestyle, his name endures in discussions about self-defense, legal justice, and media influence. His life represents both the complexity and cost of public scrutiny at a young age.
FAQs:
Who is Kyle Rittenhouse and why is he known?
Kyle Rittenhouse gained fame after the 2020 Kenosha, Wisconsin shootings during civil unrest. He shot three men, killing two and injuring one, and was later acquitted of all criminal charges after claiming self-defense.
How old is Kyle Rittenhouse now?
Kyle Rittenhouse age is 22 years old in 2025. He was born on January 3, 2003, in Antioch, Illinois.
What is Kyle Rittenhouse doing today?
He is reported to work in a firearms retail business in Florida and runs small-scale advocacy efforts focused on self-defense and media accountability.
Is Kyle Rittenhouse facing any more legal issues?
Yes, he still faces civil lawsuits from the families of the individuals involved in the Kenosha shootings, including wrongful-death claims.
What is Kyle Rittenhouse net worth?
His net worth is estimated at around $50,000 as of 2025, with most of his earlier donations spent on legal defense and ongoing litigation costs.
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