“Fake it till you make it.” — Shawn Killinger
Shawn Killinger is an American television personality and longtime QVC host, celebrated for her energetic, relatable style and her famous catchphrase “Fake it till you make it.” She has been a fixture on QVC since 2007, presenting fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products. Killinger is also known for her earlier career in news broadcasting and her appearance on The Apprentice: Martha Stewart.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shawn Elizabeth Killinger |
| Birthdate | November 2, 1972 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Religion | Christian |
| Age | 53 years (as of 2026) |
| Height | 5 ft 5 in (165 cm) |
| Hair | Blonde |
| Eyes | Brown |
| Education | Penn State University |
| Profession | TV Anchor, Reporter, QVC Host |
| Employer | QVC |
| Residence | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
| Years Active | 1997–Present |
| Awards | Recognition for QVC longevity |
| Net Worth | Estimated $1–2 million |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio ♏ |
Parents, Siblings & Relatives
- Father: David Killinger
- Mother: Loandra Killinger
- Sibling: Elder brother, David Killinger Jr.
- Spouse: Married to Joe Carretta (beauty and wellness consultant, entrepreneur) since 2013
- Children: One adopted daughter; stepmother to Joe’s two sons
Early Life & Education
Shawn Killinger was born in Detroit, Michigan, and spent part of her childhood in Mexico due to her father’s work. She later returned to the U.S. and studied at Penn State University, graduating in 1997. Her bilingual upbringing and exposure to diverse cultures shaped her communication style and confidence in front of the camera.
Career Journey
Killinger began her career in broadcasting through the CBS Page Program, working behind the scenes on major shows like CBS Evening News and 60 Minutes. She transitioned to on‑air roles as a reporter and anchor for CBS and FOX affiliates in Florida and New York.

Her national recognition came from appearing on The Apprentice: Martha Stewart in 2005, where her phrase “Fake it till you make it” became iconic. In 2007, she joined QVC, where she has since become one of the network’s most recognizable hosts, known for her spontaneity and ability to present live for hours without a teleprompter.
Major Works
- Hosting QVC fashion and beauty segments
- Shawn Says Accessorize (QVC show)
- Shawn’s Beauty Secrets (QVC show)
Awards & Recognition
- Recognition for her long tenure at QVC
- Celebrated for her charity work with the Make‑A‑Wish Foundation since 2008
Public Persona & Style
Shawn Killinger is known for:
- High‑energy, relatable hosting style
- Catchphrase “Fake it till you make it”
- Spontaneous, unscripted delivery
- Strong connection with QVC audiences
Lifestyle & Personal Insights
Killinger lives in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, with her husband Joe Carretta and their blended family. She is active in philanthropy, particularly with the Make‑A‑Wish Foundation, and often shares personal reflections on social media.
Physical Appearance
Shawn Killinger has a slender build, standing at 5 ft 5 in (165 cm) and weighing approximately 121 lbs (55 kg). She has blonde hair, brown eyes, and a polished, approachable television presence.
Salary & Net Worth
Her estimated net worth is around $1–2 million, primarily from her QVC career and endorsements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Shawn Killinger? She is a QVC host and former news anchor.
What is Shawn Killinger’s catchphrase? “Fake it till you make it.”
Is Shawn Killinger married? Yes, to Joe Carretta since 2013.
Does Shawn Killinger have children? She has one adopted daughter and is stepmother to two sons.
What is Shawn Killinger’s zodiac sign? Her zodiac sign is Scorpio.
Related Figures
- Susan Graver Biography
- Kim Gravel Biography
- David Venable Biography
- Jane Treacy Biography
- Isaac Mizrahi Biography
Legacy
Shawn Killinger’s legacy lies in her dynamic presence on QVC, her ability to connect with audiences authentically, and her philanthropic work with children through the Make‑A‑Wish Foundation.
Timeline Overview
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1972 | Born November 2 in Detroit, Michigan, USA |
| Childhood | Raised in Michigan and Mexico due to father’s work |
| 1997 | Graduated from Penn State University |
| Late 1990s | Joined CBS Page Program; worked on CBS Evening News, Late Show with David Letterman, and 60 Minutes |
| 2000s | Worked as anchor/reporter for CBS and FOX affiliates in Florida and New York |
| 2005 | Appeared on The Apprentice: Martha Stewart |
| 2007 | Joined QVC as national program host |
| 2013 | Married Joe Carretta |
| Present | Leading QVC host with shows covering fashion, beauty, and accessories |
Interesting Facts
- Shawn Killinger lived in Mexico as a child and is bilingual.
- She coined the phrase “Fake it till you make it” on The Apprentice: Martha Stewart.
- She has been with QVC for nearly two decades.
- She is active in charity work, especially with the Make‑A‑Wish Foundation.
- Her zodiac sign is Scorpio.
Sources
- QVC archives
- Penn State University alumni records
- Media interviews and coverage
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