Candace Owens: Controversy and Influence in 2025

12 December 2025 Politics and Activism

Introduction: A Polarising Media Figure

Candace Owens, the American conservative commentator and podcaster, has become one of the most controversial figures in right-wing media. Her self-titled podcast ‘Candace’ ranked No. 1 globally in October 2025, averaging 3.5 to 3.6 million downloads per episode. With her follower base growing by more than 9 million across platforms this year alone, Owens’ influence continues to expand despite mounting legal challenges and public disputes.

Legal Battle with the Macrons

Owens currently faces a significant defamation lawsuit filed by French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron. The 219-page complaint, filed in Delaware Superior Court in July 2025, accuses Owens of orchestrating a “campaign of global humiliation” by promoting the conspiracy theory that Brigitte Macron was born male. The Macrons have enlisted Clare Locke, the law firm that secured a $787.5 million settlement from Fox News on behalf of Dominion Voting Systems. This legal battle threatens to test whether Owens’ controversial media model can survive what experts predict will be an expensive court fight.

Feud with Turning Point USA

Following her departure from The Daily Wire in March 2024, Owens has been embroiled in ongoing disputes with former colleagues. Charlie Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, recently told CBS News she has one word for Owens regarding conspiracy theories about her late husband: “Stop”. Owens has pushed conspiracy theories about Kirk’s murder and made unfounded fraud allegations about Turning Point USA’s finances, despite previously describing their relationship as sibling-like.

Conclusion: Influence Amidst Controversy

Following her departure from The Daily Wire, Owens launched an independent YouTube channel that had over 3.8 million subscribers as of February 2025. Her ability to monetise controversy has proven remarkably successful, yet mounting legal pressures and public criticism raise questions about the sustainability of her approach. As defamation lawsuits proceed and feuds intensify, Owens’ trajectory will test whether inflammatory content can maintain its audience when faced with serious legal and reputational consequences. For millions of followers, her next moves will determine whether her influence continues to grow or begins to wane.