Tucker Carlson Launches Rogue Publishing Imprint for Controversial Authors
Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson has launched his own book imprint, Tucker Carlson Books, in partnership with Skyhorse Publishing. The imprint is specifically designed to publish works by authors and on topics that mainstream publishers often avoid, featuring controversial figures such as Russell Brand and Milo Yiannopoulos.
A Platform for Unpublished Voices
In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Carlson stated that the imprint will focus on books that "nobody else will publish." He emphasized that Skyhorse publisher Tony Lyons is willing to publish any book as long as it has inherent value, is well-argued, contains relevant facts, and is nicely written. Carlson described the imprint as a place for ideas that might otherwise be censored or overlooked.
Tony Lyons echoed this sentiment, telling the WSJ that the imprint provides "a platform to things that would, in many cases, be shut down, be censored, and be covered over by propaganda." He added that Skyhorse Publishing offers "free speech" works that other companies would not touch, with a philosophy of not judging or acting as a jury, but rather encouraging debate and openness to diverse ideas.
Controversial Titles and Authors
The initial slate of books under the Tucker Carlson Books imprint includes Russell Brand's upcoming title How To Become a Christian In Seven Days and Milo Yiannopoulos's Ex Gay. Both authors have faced significant public scrutiny and legal issues.
Russell Brand is currently awaiting trial in the United Kingdom on charges of rape and sexual assault, which he denies. The allegations involve six women and incidents alleged to have occurred between 1999 and 2009.
Milo Yiannopoulos resigned from the right-wing news site Breitbart News in 2017 after footage resurfaced where he appeared to condone sexual relationships between men and underage boys. He apologized at the time, citing his own history as a victim of sexual abuse. Yiannopoulos was permanently banned from Facebook and Twitter in 2019 for violating hate speech policies.
Carlson's Evolving Public Profile
Since his dismissal from Fox News in 2023, Tucker Carlson has launched his own digital media company and hosted a streaming show featuring highly controversial guests, including white nationalist Nick Fuentes. Recently, he has become one of several MAGA supporters to publicly split from former President Donald Trump over the ongoing conflict in Iran, a departure from his previous staunch support.
Trump responded by describing Carlson, along with commentators like Megyn Kelly, Candace Owens, and conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, as having "Low IQs"—a frequent insult he uses against critics. In apparent retaliation, Carlson has launched a new line of merchandise, including baseball caps bearing the phrase "LOW IQ."
Skyhorse Publishing's Broader Catalogue
Skyhorse Publishing has a history of publishing works by controversial or high-profile figures. Other authors in their catalogue include Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr, former first lady Melania Trump, and filmmaker Woody Allen. Lyons emphasized that books should stand on their own merit, without shame or punishment for dissent, fostering an environment where debate is encouraged.
The launch of Tucker Carlson Books marks a significant expansion of Carlson's media empire, positioning him as a key player in the publishing world for voices often marginalized by traditional outlets.
