Megyn Kelly, a prominent television journalist and former corporate attorney, has left an indelible mark on the world of news reporting. Known for her sharp questioning, in-depth interviews, and ability to handle sensitive topics, Kelly has navigated both praise and controversy throughout her career. From her early days as a lawyer to becoming one of the most recognizable faces on Fox News, and later NBC News, Megyn Kelly’s journey is filled with challenges, triumphs, and a determination to make her voice heard.
Early Life and Education
Megyn Marie Kelly was born on November 18, 1970, in Champaign, Illinois. Raised in a family that deeply valued education, Kelly’s parents instilled a strong sense of discipline and intellectual curiosity in her from a young age. Her father, Edward Kelly, was a professor at the State University of New York at Albany, and her mother, Linda Kelly, was a nurse. The family eventually moved to Syracuse, New York, where Megyn grew up alongside her older siblings, Pete and Suzanne Kelly.
Kelly’s academic excellence was evident early on. She attended Tecumseh Elementary School and later Bishop Kelley High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she was an active student. Her involvement in extracurricular activities, including the debate team and writing for the school newspaper, laid the foundation for her future career in journalism. It was during these years that Kelly developed a passion for communication and the law, which would later play pivotal roles in shaping her professional path.
After high school, Kelly enrolled at Syracuse University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in political science in 1992. Following her undergraduate studies, she pursued a law degree at Albany Law School and graduated with a Juris Doctor in 1995. Kelly’s legal training equipped her with critical thinking skills and an understanding of the legal system, both of which would prove invaluable in her later career as a journalist.
Transition From Law to Journalism
Megyn Kelly began her professional journey as a lawyer, spending a decade practicing law at top firms in Chicago and Washington, D.C. Her work focused on litigation and corporate law, but after years in the legal world, Kelly began to feel a pull toward journalism. The fast-paced, ever-changing nature of news reporting appealed to her, and she made the bold decision to switch careers.
In 2004, Kelly transitioned to television journalism, starting as a general assignment reporter at WJLA-TV in Washington, D.C. Her legal background and polished on-camera presence quickly caught the attention of network executives, and within a short time, she moved up the ranks in the industry. This career shift proved to be a pivotal moment, as it launched Kelly into the world of broadcast journalism.
Fox News: Rise to Prominence
Megyn Kelly’s big break came when she joined Fox News in 2004. Initially hired as a legal correspondent, Kelly quickly rose to prominence due to her sharp questioning and ability to tackle complex legal and political topics. Her work covering the Supreme Court and other major legal issues earned her respect from viewers and colleagues alike.
Kelly’s time at Fox News was characterized by several high-profile interviews and tough political debates. She became a key figure in the network’s prime-time lineup, hosting shows such as America Live and The Kelly File. Her ability to ask hard-hitting questions without hesitation made her a standout anchor, especially during the 2016 presidential election. One of her most notable moments came during a Republican primary debate when she challenged then-candidate Donald Trump on his treatment of women, a moment that sparked a feud and garnered widespread attention.
Throughout her time at Fox, Kelly became known for her ability to navigate controversial topics while maintaining journalistic integrity. Her popularity soared, but so did the challenges she faced, including navigating the highly charged political landscape and facing public scrutiny from various sides.
Move to NBC and New Ventures
In 2017, after 13 years at Fox News, Megyn Kelly made a significant career move by joining NBC News. This transition marked a new chapter in her career, as she stepped away from political commentary and into the world of daytime television with her show, Megyn Kelly Today. The move was a calculated risk, as Kelly sought to broaden her appeal and focus on a variety of topics beyond politics.
On Megyn Kelly Today, Kelly aimed to explore lifestyle topics, personal stories, and current events, giving her the opportunity to connect with a different audience. While the show initially generated interest, it struggled to find its footing in the competitive world of daytime television. Kelly’s transition from prime-time news anchor to daytime talk show host was met with mixed reviews, and after a controversial on-air discussion about blackface in 2018, NBC parted ways with Kelly.
Despite the challenges she faced during her time at NBC, Kelly remained a prominent figure in the media. Following her departure, she launched her own production company and began focusing on independent journalism, including hosting her podcast, The Megyn Kelly Show. Through her podcast, Kelly continues to engage in candid conversations about politics, culture, and media, allowing her to maintain a voice in the public sphere on her terms.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Beyond her career, Megyn Kelly is a devoted wife and mother. She married Douglas Brunt, a novelist and former CEO of the cybersecurity firm Authentium, in 2008. Together, they have three children: Edward Yates, Thatcher Bray, and Yardley Evans. Kelly often speaks about the challenges of balancing a demanding career with motherhood, acknowledging that her family is her top priority.
In addition to her work in journalism, Kelly has been involved in various philanthropic efforts. She has used her platform to advocate for women’s rights, particularly in the wake of the #MeToo movement. Her public account of being harassed by Roger Ailes, the former chairman of Fox News, helped to expose the toxic culture of harassment in the media industry and played a crucial role in the broader conversation about workplace misconduct.
Kelly is also the author of the memoir Settle for More, published in 2016. In the book, she reflects on her upbringing, career, and personal life, offering readers an inside look at the experiences that shaped her into the woman she is today.
Legacy and Influence
Megyn Kelly’s career has been anything but conventional. From her early days as a lawyer to becoming a leading figure in the world of television news, Kelly has consistently pushed the boundaries of what it means to be a journalist in today’s media landscape. Her willingness to tackle tough subjects, hold powerful figures accountable, and speak openly about her own experiences has earned her both admiration and criticism.
Kelly’s influence extends beyond the newsroom. She has become a symbol of resilience and strength for many women, particularly those in male-dominated industries. Her public stance against workplace harassment and her continued advocacy for gender equality have solidified her legacy as more than just a news anchor—she is a powerful voice for change.
As Kelly continues to evolve in her career, her impact on the world of journalism is undeniable. Whether through her television work, podcast, or writing, Megyn Kelly remains a prominent figure, unafraid to challenge the status quo and speak her mind.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Megyn Marie Kelly
- Date of Birth: November 18, 1970
- Place of Birth: Champaign, Illinois, USA
- Residence: Rye, New York, USA
- Nationality: American
- Occupation: Journalist, News Anchor, Political Commentator, Lawyer
- Height: 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 m)
- Weight: 58 kg (128 lbs)
- Body Measurements: 35-25-35 inches
- Eye Color: Blue
- Hair Color: Blonde
- Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
- Spouse: Douglas Brunt (m. 2008), Daniel Kendall (m. 2001–2006)
- Children: Edward Yates Brunt, Thatcher Bray Brunt, Yardley Evans Brunt
- Education: Syracuse University (B.A. in Political Science), Albany Law School (J.D.)
- Books: Settle for More (2016)
- Notable Shows: The Kelly File, America Live, Megyn Kelly Today
