Jeanine Pirro Named One of TIME’s 100 Most Influential Women in America — And the Story Behind It Is Truly Surprising
In a year filled with powerful names, groundbreaking achievements, and stories of resilience, TIME magazine has officially announced its 100 Most Influential Women in America for 2025. Among the leaders, innovators, and cultural icons, one name stood out for both its prominence and the controversy it carries: Judge Jeanine Pirro.
Best known as a former judge, prosecutor, and outspoken television personality, Pirro has long been a polarizing figure in American media. Yet her inclusion on this prestigious list is not only a recognition of her influence but also a testament to a surprising and lesser-known journey that led her here.
A Trailblazing Career in Law
Jeanine Pirro’s rise to prominence began in the courtroom. As the first female judge in Westchester County, New York, and later as the first woman to serve as District Attorney there, Pirro carved out a name for herself as a relentless legal mind. She fought tirelessly against domestic violence and child abuse, issues that often lacked the visibility and urgency they deserved at the time.
Her early career established her as a fighter for the vulnerable — a side of Pirro that many critics of her later television career often overlook. It was this foundation in law and justice that TIME editors cited as one of the key reasons behind her nomination.
The Television Years
Pirro’s transition to television came with her role as host of Justice with Judge Jeanine, a program that catapulted her into households across America. Known for her fiery delivery, uncompromising rhetoric, and sharp legal commentary, she became a voice impossible to ignore. Whether one agreed with her or not, Pirro had the rare ability to command attention — and keep it.
According to TIME, influence is not measured by universal admiration but by impact. “Jeanine Pirro has been a force in shaping public conversations about law, politics, and justice,” the magazine wrote. “Her voice has carried far beyond the courtroom, sparking debates that resonate across America.”
The Surprising Story Behind the Recognition
What makes Pirro’s inclusion particularly surprising, however, is the lesser-known work she has been doing away from the cameras. Over the past several years, Pirro has quietly supported initiatives aimed at improving access to legal aid for underserved communities.
One project, in partnership with grassroots organizations in New York, has provided funding and mentorship for young women pursuing careers in law. Another initiative has focused on raising awareness about wrongful convictions and the need for reform in forensic science — issues that rarely make headlines but have life-altering consequences.
“Judge Pirro’s advocacy may surprise those who only know her from television,” said a TIME editor. “Her off-air work demonstrates a commitment to justice that is as passionate as her on-air commentary.”
Mixed Public Reaction
As with most things involving Pirro, the announcement sparked immediate debate. Supporters hailed the recognition as long overdue, pointing to her trailblazing career in law and her undeniable ability to influence national conversations.
Critics, however, questioned whether her polarizing media persona overshadowed the positive aspects of her work. Social media lit up with divided opinions, with one user posting: “You may not agree with her politics, but you can’t deny her influence.”
Another wrote: “Influence without responsibility is dangerous — TIME just gave her a bigger platform.”
Why She Matters in 2025
Love her or loathe her, Jeanine Pirro embodies the complicated nature of modern influence. She has been both praised as a truth-teller and condemned as a provocateur. Yet, as TIME pointed out, influence is not about universal approval — it’s about the ability to shape dialogue, shift narratives, and force society to grapple with hard truths.
Pirro’s career has consistently done just that. From her groundbreaking work as a prosecutor to her high-profile television career and her quieter advocacy in recent years, she has remained a figure who demands attention.
A Legacy Still Unfolding
For Jeanine Pirro, being named one of TIME’s 100 most influential women in America is more than just an honor — it is a recognition of a career defined by impact. Whether through law, media, or advocacy, she has left a mark on American society that few can deny.
As Pirro herself said in a brief statement following the announcement: “Influence is not about being liked. It’s about standing firm in your beliefs and making a difference where it counts.”
At 73, Pirro shows no signs of stepping back. If anything, her recognition by TIME may only energize her further, ensuring that her voice — sharp, unfiltered, and unrelenting — will continue to echo across the national stage.
