Who is Erika Kirk? The wife of slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk

Erika Kirk, the wife of slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk, vowed to continue her late husband's work and mission, saying during a recent speech, "You have no idea what you have unleashed across this country and this world.”

Charlie Kirk, 31, was fatally shot in what officials called a "political assassination" while speaking at Utah Valley University's campus on Wednesday, Sept. 10. Authorities identified Tyler Robinson, 22, as the alleged shooter and arrested him on Friday, Sept. 12. According to court records obtained by USA TODAY, Robinson is facing charges of aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm and obstruction of justice. Prosecutors are expected to formally file charges against Robinson at his first court appearance on Tuesday, Sept. 16, according to Christopher Ballard of the Utah County Attorney’s Office.

On the same day as Robinson's arrest, Erika Kirk gave a speech, marking her first public appearance since the murder of her husband.

“The evil-doers for my husband’s assassination have no idea what they have done,” she said in a livestream on the YouTube page of Turning Point USA, the conservative movement her husband started in high school in Illinois that has since swept college campuses around the nation.

The mother of two delivered the speech from her late husband's studio, where he produced "The Charlie Kirk Show." Wearing a beige blazer, She stood behind a desk outfitted with white hats featuring a gold number "47," a reference to President Donald Trump, of whom her husband was a strong supporter.

“They killed Charlie because he preached a message of patriotism, faith and of God’s love,” Erika Kirk said. “They should all know this. If you thought my husband’s mission was powerful before, you have no idea."

As she continues to plan for her husband's memorials and funeral, here is a deeper look at Erika Kirk.

Who is Erika Kirk?

Erika Lane Kirk, 36, had been married to Charlie Kirk since 2021. They wed on May 8 during a ceremony in Scottsdale, Arizona, according to an Instagram post she shared on May 25, 2021.

"...to the man that I am immeasurably blessed to be able to call my husband. My CJK. I love you @charliekirk1776," the post reads.

Before marrying Charlie Kirk, the former Erika Frantzve won Miss Arizona USA in 2012, according to the pageant's website. She received her Juris Master's from Liberty University School of Law in 2019, according to her Instagram.

She also earned her undergraduate degree in Political Science and International Relations at Arizona State University, according to the bio page on her website. She also played college basketball at Regis University in Denver.

"Erika Kirk is a driven social entrepreneur, passionate ministry leader, and woman of deep faith whose life has been shaped by her global experiences and unwavering commitment to purpose," her bio reads. "From New York City to China, Erika has worked in the entertainment industry as a model, actress, and casting director, all while remaining grounded in her Christian faith. Her bold spirit and belief in God's guidance have propelled her to pursue various impactful ventures."

Erika Kirk is the CEO and founder of a nonprofit (Everyday Heroes Like You), a ministry project (BIBLEin365) that her bio says "seeks to help individuals engage with the scriptures daily," and a faith-based clothing brand (PROCLAIM).

She's also the host of the "Midweek Rise Up" podcast, which she describes as a "devotional series focused on Biblical leadership and empowering others to lead with integrity and purpose."

How did Erika and Charlie Kirk meet?

Erika and Charlie Kirk met in 2018, according to Fox News, and the two had a "very long dinner," the conservative activist says in a video shared on Turning Point's YouTube page.

In the same video, Charlie Kirk says he knew his wife was the one "immediately".

"Erika cherishes her role as the wife of Charlie Kirk and the mother of their precious son and daughter," the bio on her website reads. "As she continues to grow in her ministry, leadership, and entrepreneurial endeavors, Erika remains committed to inspiring others to live with purpose, rooted in faith, and driven by the love of Christ in every aspect of life."

In an Instagram post on Sept. 12, Erika Kirk wrote, "They have no idea what they just ignited within this wife. If they thought my husband’s mission was big now..you have no idea. You. All of you. Will never. Ever. Forget my husband @charliekirk1776 I’ll make sure of it."