Where Are They Now? Former Fox News Female Anchors
The world of cable news is ever-changing, and Fox News is no exception. Over the years, many talented female anchors have graced its studios, becoming household names and shaping the network's identity. But what happens when these prominent figures decide to move on? Let's dive into the stories of some former Fox News female anchors and find out where they are now.
Ainsley Earhardt
Ainsley Earhardt is a prominent figure in American journalism, celebrated for her captivating presence and insightful reporting. As a co-host of "Fox & Friends," one of the most-watched morning news programs in the United States, Earhardt has become a familiar face in millions of households. Her career trajectory is marked by significant achievements, and her contributions to Fox News have solidified her reputation as a leading voice in conservative media. Earhardt's journey in journalism began long before her tenure at Fox News. She honed her skills at local news stations in South Carolina and Texas, where she covered a wide range of stories, from local community events to breaking news. These early experiences provided her with a solid foundation in newsgathering, reporting, and on-air presentation. Her ability to connect with viewers on a personal level and deliver news with clarity and poise quickly set her apart from her peers.
In 2007, Earhardt joined Fox News, marking a pivotal moment in her career. Initially, she served as a correspondent, covering various national events and contributing to different programs across the network. Her versatility and dedication soon earned her more prominent roles, including appearances on "Hannity" and "The O'Reilly Factor." These platforms allowed her to engage with a broader audience and delve into more complex political and social issues. However, it was her role as a co-host of "Fox & Friends First" that truly showcased her talent. Alongside her co-hosts, Earhardt helped set the tone for the day's news, providing viewers with a comprehensive overview of the top stories and engaging in lively discussions. Her insightful commentary and warm demeanor resonated with viewers, contributing to the show's growing popularity. Earhardt's most significant career move came in 2016 when she was named a co-host of the flagship program "Fox & Friends." This appointment solidified her position as one of the network's leading female anchors. On "Fox & Friends," she has covered numerous high-profile events, including presidential elections, national tragedies, and significant policy changes. Her interviews with politicians, celebrities, and everyday Americans have provided viewers with valuable insights and perspectives.
Beyond her on-air work, Earhardt is also an accomplished author. She has written several children's books, including "Take Heart, My Child: A Mother's Dream" and "Through Your Eyes: My Child's Gift to Me," which reflect her personal experiences and values. These books have resonated with readers of all ages, further enhancing her connection with her audience. Ainsley Earhardt's impact on Fox News and American journalism is undeniable. Her ability to connect with viewers, her insightful reporting, and her dedication to her craft have made her a respected and admired figure in the media landscape. As she continues to evolve in her career, her influence is likely to grow even further.
Megyn Kelly
Megyn Kelly is another name that immediately comes to mind when discussing former Fox News female anchors. Kelly's career at Fox News was marked by both success and controversy. She joined the network in 2004 and quickly rose through the ranks, hosting her own show, "America Live," and later "The Kelly File." Known for her tough questioning and willingness to challenge guests, Kelly became one of the network's most recognizable faces. However, her time at Fox News was not without its challenges. Her clashes with then-candidate Donald Trump during the 2016 presidential election drew considerable media attention and sparked intense debate. In 2017, Kelly made the move to NBC News, where she hosted "Megyn Kelly Today." The show aimed to be a more general interest program, but it struggled to find an audience and was eventually canceled. Since then, Kelly has launched her own media company, Devil May Care Media, and hosts "The Megyn Kelly Show," a podcast and SiriusXM radio show where she discusses news, politics, and culture.
Megyn Kelly's career is a study in transformation. She began her professional life as an attorney, practicing law for several years before transitioning to journalism. This legal background equipped her with a unique perspective and analytical skills that she would later leverage in her media career. Kelly's move to Fox News in 2004 marked a significant turning point. She quickly gained prominence, initially as a legal analyst and then as a news anchor. Her sharp intellect and articulate delivery made her a valuable asset to the network. Over the years, she hosted several successful programs, including "America Live" and "The Kelly File," where she covered major news events and interviewed prominent figures. Her coverage of the 2012 presidential election and other significant political events solidified her reputation as a serious journalist.
However, it was her coverage of the 2016 presidential election that catapulted her to national prominence. Her tough questioning of then-candidate Donald Trump during a Republican primary debate sparked a media firestorm. The exchange, which focused on Trump's past comments about women, drew both praise and criticism. Despite the controversy, Kelly continued to challenge Trump throughout the election cycle, earning her the respect of many viewers and journalists. In 2017, Kelly made a highly publicized move to NBC News. Her new role included hosting a daytime talk show, "Megyn Kelly Today," and contributing to other NBC News programs. However, the transition proved challenging. The talk show struggled to find an audience, and Kelly's tenure at NBC was relatively short-lived. Since leaving NBC, Kelly has reinvented herself as an independent media figure. She launched Devil May Care Media, a media company focused on producing high-quality content for a variety of platforms. Her flagship program, "The Megyn Kelly Show," is a podcast and SiriusXM radio show where she discusses news, politics, and culture with a wide range of guests. The show has gained a significant following, allowing Kelly to continue engaging with her audience and sharing her unique perspective.
Gretchen Carlson
Gretchen Carlson is another former Fox News female anchor whose departure made headlines. Carlson joined Fox News in 2005 and hosted "Fox & Friends" for many years before launching her own show, "The Real Story with Gretchen Carlson." In 2016, Carlson filed a lawsuit against Fox News CEO Roger Ailes, alleging sexual harassment. The lawsuit led to Ailes' resignation and a reported $20 million settlement for Carlson. Since leaving Fox News, Carlson has become a vocal advocate for women's rights and has worked to combat sexual harassment in the workplace. She has written a book, "Be Fierce: Stop Harassment and Take Your Power Back," and has appeared on numerous television programs to discuss her experiences and advocate for change. Carlson's courage in speaking out against sexual harassment has made her an inspiration to many.
Gretchen Carlson's career is marked by her resilience and determination to fight for justice. Before joining Fox News, she had a successful career as a television journalist, working at local news stations across the country. Her talent and hard work earned her several Emmy Awards and a reputation as a skilled and respected journalist. In 2005, Carlson joined Fox News, where she quickly became a familiar face to viewers. She co-hosted "Fox & Friends" for several years, providing news and commentary on a wide range of issues. Her articulate and engaging style made her a popular figure among viewers. In 2013, Carlson launched her own show, "The Real Story with Gretchen Carlson." The show provided her with a platform to delve deeper into the news of the day and conduct in-depth interviews with newsmakers. Her sharp questioning and insightful analysis made the show a valuable source of information for viewers.
However, Carlson's career took a dramatic turn in 2016 when she filed a lawsuit against Fox News CEO Roger Ailes, alleging sexual harassment. The lawsuit detailed a pattern of inappropriate behavior and created a watershed moment in the media industry. Carlson's decision to speak out against Ailes was met with both support and criticism. Many praised her courage and willingness to stand up for what she believed in. Others questioned her motives and accused her of seeking publicity. Despite the challenges, Carlson remained steadfast in her commitment to seeking justice. Her lawsuit ultimately led to Ailes' resignation and a reported $20 million settlement for Carlson. Since leaving Fox News, Carlson has become a leading voice in the fight against sexual harassment. She has written a book, "Be Fierce: Stop Harassment and Take Your Power Back," in which she shares her own experiences and provides advice to other women who have been affected by harassment. She has also appeared on numerous television programs and spoken at events across the country, advocating for change and raising awareness about the issue. Carlson's work has had a significant impact on the national conversation about sexual harassment. She has helped to create a more supportive environment for victims and has inspired many women to come forward and share their stories. Her courage and determination have made her a role model for others and have solidified her legacy as a champion for women's rights.
Elisabeth Hasselbeck
Elisabeth Hasselbeck is another notable former Fox News female anchor. Before joining Fox News, Hasselbeck rose to fame as a contestant on "Survivor" and later as a co-host of "The View." She joined Fox News in 2013 as a co-host of "Fox & Friends," where she remained until 2015. Since leaving Fox News, Hasselbeck has largely stayed out of the public eye, focusing on her family and other personal pursuits. While she has made occasional appearances on television, she has primarily dedicated her time to raising her children and supporting various charitable causes.
Elisabeth Hasselbeck's career is marked by her versatility and ability to connect with audiences. Before entering the world of media, she was a competitive athlete, playing softball in college. Her athletic background instilled in her a strong work ethic and a competitive spirit that would later serve her well in her career. Hasselbeck first gained national attention as a contestant on the reality television show "Survivor: The Australian Outback" in 2001. Her outgoing personality and strategic gameplay made her a fan favorite, and she quickly became a recognizable face. After her stint on "Survivor," Hasselbeck transitioned to daytime television, joining "The View" as a co-host in 2003. Her conservative viewpoints often clashed with those of her co-hosts, leading to lively debates and discussions. Despite the disagreements, Hasselbeck remained a popular figure on the show, known for her articulate and passionate defense of her beliefs.
In 2013, Hasselbeck left "The View" to join Fox News as a co-host of "Fox & Friends." Her move to Fox News was seen as a natural fit, given her conservative political views. On "Fox & Friends," she continued to engage in discussions on a wide range of issues, providing her perspective and analysis. Her contributions to the show helped to solidify its position as one of the most-watched morning news programs in the country. Since leaving Fox News in 2015, Hasselbeck has largely stepped away from the spotlight. She has focused on raising her children and supporting various charitable causes. While she has made occasional appearances on television, she has primarily dedicated her time to her family and personal pursuits. Hasselbeck's decision to prioritize her family is a testament to her values and her commitment to her loved ones. Her career is a reminder that success can be defined in many different ways, and that personal fulfillment is just as important as professional achievement.
Conclusion
The journeys of these former Fox News female anchors highlight the diverse paths that media personalities can take. From pursuing new career ventures to advocating for important causes, these women have continued to make their mark on the world long after leaving Fox News. Their stories serve as a reminder that life after a prominent television role can be just as fulfilling and impactful.
