Lauren Sánchez, born December 19, 1969, is an Emmy Award-winning journalist, philanthropist, and founder of Black Ops Aviation, the first female-owned aerial film company.
She serves as Vice Chair of the Bezos Earth Fund, focusing on climate change and early childhood education initiatives.
Recently, Sánchez garnered attention for her controversial outfit at Donald Trump’s inauguration, which included a lace corset under a white blazer, leading to widespread criticism on social media.
She is also known for her past roles in entertainment news and her relationship with Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.
Parents
Lauren was born to a Mexican-American mother, Wendy Sanchez, and a father of French-Canadian and German-Italian descent.
Her father, Ray Sánchez, was a flight instructor, which inspired her early interest in aviation.
She has three children, Nikko, from her relationship with NFL player Tony Gonzalez, and two children, Evan and Ella, with her ex-husband Patrick Whitesell.
Career
Sánchez began her career in television as a co-host on Good Day LA, a popular morning news show in Los Angeles.
Her engaging personality and ability to connect with audiences helped her gain recognition in the industry.
She later served as a correspondent for Extra, an entertainment news program where she covered celebrity news and events, further establishing her presence in the media landscape.
In 2016, Sánchez founded Black Ops Aviation, the first female-owned aerial film company.
This venture was inspired by her passion for aviation and her desire to break barriers in a male-dominated industry.
The company specializes in aerial cinematography, providing stunning aerial shots for films, commercials, and television shows.
It has worked on high-profile projects, showcasing Sánchez’s expertise in both media and aviation.
Notably, she played a significant role as a consultant on Christopher Nolan’s critically acclaimed film Dunkirk, where her knowledge of aviation contributed to the film’s authentic portrayal of aerial combat during World War II.
In addition to her work in media and film, Lauren Sánchez serves as the Vice Chair of the Bezos Earth Fund, an organization established by Jeff Bezos to address climate change and promote sustainability.
The fund focuses on supporting initiatives that aim to reduce carbon emissions and advance environmental justice.
Sánchez is particularly involved in efforts related to early childhood education and social equity.
Sánchez has built a personal brand that combines her passion for journalism, aviation, and philanthropy.
She is known for her stylish public appearances and has become a prominent figure in both entertainment and social advocacy circles.
Her relationship with Jeff Bezos has also brought her into the spotlight, leading to increased media attention regarding her personal life and professional endeavors.