Megyn Kelly (born November 18, 1970) is an American journalist, television news anchor, and former attorney. She is recognized for her work as a political commentator on cable news networks and for hosting several high‑profile television programs.
Early life and education
Kelly was born in Champaign, Illinois, and raised in Syracuse, New York. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science and a Bachelor of Science in telecommunications from the University of Virginia in 1993. She subsequently obtained a Juris Doctor degree from Georgetown University Law Center in 1999.
Legal career
After graduating from law school, Kelly practiced law at the Washington, D.C., office of the firm Jones Day, focusing on corporate matters. She left legal practice in the early 2000s to pursue a career in broadcast journalism.
Broadcast journalism career
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Fox News (2004–2017)
Kelly joined Fox News as a legal analyst in 2004, providing commentary on high‑profile court cases. She later became a host, anchoring the daytime program America Live (2010–2013). In 2013, she launched the prime‑time news discussion show The Kelly File, which featured political interviews and analysis. The program received consistent viewership and was noted for its investigative segments.Kelly’s tenure at Fox News concluded in 2017 after a public debate with then‑presidential candidate Donald Trump concerning his remarks about her reporting. The disagreement and subsequent media coverage were cited as factors influencing her departure.
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NBC News (2017–2018)
In September 2017, Kelly joined NBC News and began co‑hosting Megyn Kelly Today, a morning news and lifestyle program. The show was cancelled in January 2018 following controversy surrounding comments she made on a segment about alleged sexual assault by Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh. Kelly left NBC later that year.
Authorship
Kelly has authored two nonfiction books: The Brilliant Mistress: A Disgraced Housewife's Triumph Over Domestic Abuse (2013), a true‑crime memoir, and Settle for More: How to Create Success Through Exceptional Decision‑Making (2016), which offers advice on professional and personal development.
Public profile and impact
Kelly is frequently cited for her legal expertise and her role in shaping political discourse on televised news platforms. Her on‑air interviewing style and occasional involvement in political controversies have contributed to public discussions about media bias and journalistic independence.
Awards and recognition
During her career, Kelly has received several industry accolades, including a CableFAX Program and Personality of the Year award (2014) and nominations for Emmy Awards for her work on The Kelly File.
Personal life
Megyn Kelly is married to attorney Keith Kiernan; the couple has two children. She resides in Washington, D.C.
References
- "Megyn Kelly." Encyclopædia Britannica, 2023.
- "Megyn Kelly Biography." NBC News, accessed April 2026.
- "Megyn Kelly Joins NBC News." The New York Times, September 4 2017.
- "The Kelly File: Ratings and Reception." Broadcasting & Cable, March 2015.