Tucker Carlson announces father Dick Carlson’s death at 84 after illness in Florida
Courtesy: @tuckercarlson on X
Tucker Carlson has announced the death of his father, Richard “Dick” Carlson, who passed away at 84. In an emotional post on X (formerly Twitter), the conservative commentator shared that his father died on Monday at his home in Boca Grande, Florida, following a six-week illness. “He refused all painkillers to the end and left this world with dignity and clarity,” Carlson wrote, noting he was surrounded by his children and dogs in his final moments.
— Tucker Carlson (@TuckerCarlson) March 26, 2025
Dick Carlson held high-profile roles throughout his career, including director of Voice of America under President Ronald Reagan and ambassador to Seychelles under President George H.W. Bush. Earlier, he worked as a journalist, often reporting from dangerous or politically sensitive regions. In his later years, he pursued work described by his family as “never completely clear,” but undeniably intriguing.
Beyond his public service, Dick Carlson was known for his devotion to family and his unconventional approach to parenting. He spoke with his sons daily and upheld a long tradition of weekly lunches and dice games at the Metropolitan Club in Washington. According to his obituary, he “fervently loved dogs,” a simple but defining trait.
Tucker’s upbringing reflected his father’s unique parenting style. Following a bitter divorce in 1976, Dick won full custody of Tucker and his younger brother, Buckley, citing their mother’s struggles with substance abuse. He later married Patricia Swanson, heiress to the Swanson frozen foods empire, and settled in La Jolla, California, before relocating to Washington, D.C.
Tucker credits his father for shaping his worldview and encouraging his lifelong interest in news and politics. Dick Carlson is survived by his two sons and five grandchildren.