Craig Harris Carton, born on January 31, 1969, in New Rochelle, New York, is an American sports radio personality, best known for co-hosting the highly successful Boomer & Carton show on WFAN in New York City. Throughout his career, Carton has become a polarizing figure, enjoying great success as a radio host and television personality while also facing significant personal and professional setbacks. His journey has been marked by both incredible highs and devastating lows, but his story is one of resilience and comeback.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Craig Carton grew up in New Rochelle and later attended Syracuse University’s prestigious S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, where he earned a degree in broadcast journalism. His career in radio began in the early ’90s when he got his first job at WGR AM in Buffalo. From there, Carton worked his way through various radio stations across the United States, including Cleveland and Philadelphia. Over time, he built a reputation as a fast-talking, bold sports personality with a sharp sense of humor and a knack for engaging listeners.
Rise to Prominence on WFAN
Carton’s big break came in 2007 when he joined WFAN in New York City. It was there that he teamed up with former NFL quarterback Boomer Esiason to co-host the Boomer & Carton show. The partnership quickly became a huge success, with their show breaking audience records and becoming one of the highest-rated programs in WFAN’s history. The Boomer & Carton show was simulcasted on television, giving Carton national recognition and making him a household name in sports media.
The duo’s chemistry was undeniable, and their blend of humor, sports analysis, and occasional controversy won over listeners. The show became a fixture in New York City’s morning radio lineup and solidified Carton’s position as one of the top radio personalities in the country.
The Arrest and Its Aftermath
In September 2017, Craig Carton’s career came to an abrupt halt when he was arrested by federal agents on charges of securities fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy. Carton was accused of running a fraudulent ticket reselling scheme that defrauded investors out of millions of dollars. The scheme was allegedly used to cover Carton’s massive gambling debts, and federal prosecutors described it as a Ponzi-like operation. The news of his arrest shocked both fans and colleagues, as Carton had built a reputation as a trusted personality in the world of sports media.
Following the arrest, Carton was fired from WFAN and his career, as well as his personal life, was thrown into turmoil. The charges and his subsequent conviction were widely covered in the media, with many expressing disbelief that such a prominent figure in the sports world could fall from grace in such a dramatic manner.
Craig Carton Conviction and Prison Sentence
In November 2018, Carton was convicted of securities fraud, wire fraud, and conspiracy after a week-long federal trial. In April 2019, he was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison. His conviction was a blow to both his personal and professional life, as he was not only facing legal consequences but also losing the career he had spent decades building. Carton was also ordered to pay millions of dollars in restitution to the victims of his scheme.
Carton served his sentence at a minimum-security facility and, in June 2020, he was released early due to good behavior and the ongoing challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. He was transferred to home confinement before being placed on probation. Despite his legal troubles, Carton was determined to rebuild his life and career.
Return to WFAN
In 2020, Craig Carton made his return to WFAN, this time partnering with Evan Roberts for a new afternoon show called Carton & Roberts. The return of Carton to WFAN was met with mixed reactions, but the show quickly became a success, once again drawing large audiences. Carton’s time away from the station only seemed to heighten his appeal, as listeners tuned in to see how he would handle his second chance in the media world.
In addition to his radio return, Carton began a podcast, The Craig Carton Show, where he discussed sports, culture, and his personal journey. His podcast allowed him to connect with his audience on a more intimate level, giving him the opportunity to share his story and discuss his recovery from gambling addiction.
Craig Carton Television Career
Carton’s media career expanded into television when he began hosting a morning talk show on FS1. The show, The Carton Show, premiered in 2022 and lasted for about two years. Despite the challenges of transitioning from radio to television, Carton’s bold personality and sharp commentary made him a notable figure in sports television. The show was canceled in 2024, but Carton continued to work in the television industry, taking on new projects and refining his skills as a media personality.
Craig Carton Personal Life and Family
Craig Carton’s personal life has been a subject of much public scrutiny, especially in the wake of his legal troubles. He was married to Kim Carton for many years, and the couple has four children. However, the pressures of his legal issues and his criminal conviction led to their separation, and the couple eventually divorced. Carton has remained private about his family, though he has mentioned in interviews that he is focused on being a better father to his children after his release from prison.
Gambling Addiction and Advocacy
One of the central themes of Craig Carton’s life, both personally and professionally, has been his struggle with gambling addiction. His gambling problems were a major factor in the fraudulent ticket scheme that led to his arrest and conviction. Carton has since become an advocate for gambling addiction recovery and has used his platform to raise awareness about the issue.
Through his podcast, his radio shows, and public speaking engagements, Carton has been open about his past and has encouraged others to seek help if they are facing similar struggles. His willingness to speak candidly about his addiction has earned him both praise and criticism, but it has also helped him rebuild his career and reputation in a way that many thought would be impossible.
Current Status and Future Projects
As of 2026, Craig Carton continues to make waves in the media industry. His return to WFAN has been a success, and he is still hosting Carton & Roberts, where he shares his insights on sports and current events. Carton’s podcast, The Craig Carton Show, is also a major part of his media presence, with new episodes regularly attracting a loyal audience.
Carton’s future in broadcasting looks promising, with many fans and industry insiders eager to see what he will do next. His story of redemption, resilience, and second chances serves as an inspiration to others, showing that even the most significant setbacks can be overcome with hard work, determination, and a willingness to change.
Conclusion
Craig Carton’s career has been anything but conventional. From his rise to fame as one of the most popular sports radio personalities in New York City to his fall from grace and subsequent return, Carton has proven that it’s possible to rebound from even the most difficult challenges. Today, he remains a prominent figure in the world of sports media, continuing to share his story and offer insights into the world of sports, gambling, and recovery. His journey is far from over, and fans will undoubtedly be following his next steps closely in the years to come.
