Megyn Kelly: Her Career, Controversies, And What She's Doing Now

Megyn Kelly is a name that resonates strongly in the world of journalism and media. Known for her sharp interviewing skills, unflinching demeanor, and ability to tackle controversial topics head-on, Kelly has carved out a significant space for herself in the industry. From her early days as a lawyer to her primetime slots on Fox News and NBC, her journey has been nothing short of eventful. This article delves into the various facets of Megyn Kelly's career, explores the controversies she has faced, and provides an update on her current endeavors.

Early Life and Education

Megyn Kelly, born on November 18, 1970, in Syracuse, New York, embarked on her path to becoming a prominent media figure with a solid educational foundation. She spent her formative years in Delmar, New York, where she attended Bethlehem Central High School. Kelly's early life was marked by the tragic loss of her father when she was just 15 years old, an event that undoubtedly shaped her resilience and determination. Following high school, she pursued her undergraduate studies at Syracuse University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. This academic background provided her with a strong understanding of the political landscape, which would later prove invaluable in her journalism career. Not content with just a bachelor's degree, Kelly furthered her education by attending Albany Law School, where she obtained her Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree. Her legal training honed her analytical and critical thinking skills, equipping her with the ability to dissect complex issues and construct compelling arguments. Before transitioning to journalism, Kelly practiced law for several years, working at prestigious firms and gaining experience in corporate litigation. This legal background not only provided her with a unique perspective but also instilled in her a deep understanding of legal principles, which she would later draw upon when reporting on legal and political matters. Her journey from a young student in Syracuse to a practicing attorney laid the groundwork for her eventual foray into the world of media, where she would become a well-known and influential figure.

Career Beginnings in Journalism

Before becoming a household name, Megyn Kelly started her journalism career far from the bright lights of primetime television. After several years practicing law, she made a bold career change, transitioning into the world of media. Her early foray into journalism began at WJLA-TV, an ABC affiliate in Washington, D.C., where she worked as a general assignment reporter. This role provided her with invaluable experience in covering a wide range of local news stories, from crime and politics to community events. Kelly quickly distinguished herself with her sharp interviewing skills, tenacious reporting, and ability to connect with viewers. She covered significant local events, honing her ability to deliver clear, concise, and engaging news reports. Her legal background proved to be an asset, allowing her to analyze complex legal and political issues with a unique perspective. During her time at WJLA-TV, Kelly covered numerous high-profile stories, demonstrating her versatility and commitment to journalistic integrity. She gained a reputation for being a fair and unbiased reporter, earning the trust of both her colleagues and the viewing audience. This early experience in local news laid the foundation for her future success in national media. Her ability to handle diverse assignments, coupled with her strong work ethic, prepared her for the challenges and opportunities that awaited her at Fox News. These formative years in Washington, D.C., were crucial in shaping her journalistic style and solidifying her passion for delivering news to the public.

Rise to Fame at Fox News

Megyn Kelly's rise to fame truly took off when she joined Fox News in 2004. Initially, she served as a Washington-based correspondent, covering legal and political stories. However, it wasn't long before her talent and charisma propelled her into more prominent roles. Kelly quickly became a familiar face on various Fox News programs, including "Special Report with Brit Hume" and "The O'Reilly Factor," where she often provided legal analysis and commentary. Her sharp intellect, combined with her ability to articulate complex issues in an accessible manner, made her a valuable asset to the network. One of the defining moments in Kelly's career at Fox News was the launch of her own show, "America Live," in 2010. This marked a significant milestone, as it gave her a platform to showcase her skills as a host and interviewer. "America Live" quickly gained popularity, attracting a large audience and establishing Kelly as a major figure in cable news. Her success continued with the debut of "The Kelly File" in 2013, which further solidified her position as one of the network's top stars. "The Kelly File" was known for its in-depth coverage of political and cultural issues, as well as Kelly's no-nonsense interviewing style. She fearlessly challenged guests from both sides of the political spectrum, earning her both praise and criticism. During her time at Fox News, Kelly covered numerous high-profile events, including presidential elections, Supreme Court decisions, and major national and international news stories. Her coverage was often marked by her willingness to ask tough questions and hold powerful figures accountable. This commitment to journalistic integrity earned her a loyal following and solidified her reputation as a respected and influential voice in the media landscape. Her tenure at Fox News was a period of significant growth and achievement, transforming her from a legal correspondent into a primetime star.

Controversies and High-Profile Moments

Throughout her career, Megyn Kelly has been no stranger to controversy. Her unflinching approach to journalism and her willingness to tackle sensitive topics have often placed her in the center of heated debates. One of the most notable controversies occurred during the 2016 presidential election when she questioned then-candidate Donald Trump about his past remarks about women during a Fox News debate. Trump's response sparked a major feud, with the candidate publicly criticizing Kelly and accusing her of being unfair. The controversy brought Kelly both widespread attention and considerable backlash from Trump's supporters. Despite the criticism, she stood her ground, defending her role as a journalist and refusing to back down from asking tough questions. Another high-profile moment came when Kelly publicly accused former Fox News CEO Roger Ailes of sexual harassment. Her allegations, along with those of other women, led to Ailes's resignation and sparked a broader conversation about sexual harassment in the workplace. Kelly's decision to speak out was seen as courageous and helped to empower other women to come forward with their own stories. She also faced criticism for some of her own remarks, including comments about race and cultural issues. These controversies often led to heated discussions and debates, highlighting the complexities of navigating sensitive topics in the public sphere. Despite the controversies, Kelly has remained a prominent voice in the media landscape, continuing to engage in important conversations and challenge conventional wisdom. Her willingness to address difficult issues head-on has made her a controversial figure, but it has also solidified her reputation as a fearless and independent journalist.

Transition to NBC News

In 2017, Megyn Kelly made a significant career move, leaving Fox News to join NBC News. This transition marked a new chapter in her career, as she took on new roles and responsibilities within the network. One of her primary assignments at NBC was hosting "Megyn Kelly Today," a daytime talk show that aimed to cover a variety of topics, including news, lifestyle, and human-interest stories. The show was intended to showcase Kelly's versatility and appeal to a broader audience. However, "Megyn Kelly Today" faced challenges from the start, struggling to find its footing in the competitive daytime television landscape. The show's ratings were lower than expected, and it received mixed reviews from critics. Despite efforts to revamp the format and content, the show failed to gain traction. One of the most controversial moments during her time at NBC occurred when she made comments about blackface during a discussion about Halloween costumes. Her remarks sparked immediate backlash and were widely criticized as insensitive and offensive. The controversy led to widespread calls for her removal from the network. In the aftermath of the blackface controversy, NBC News terminated Kelly's contract. The abrupt departure marked a disappointing end to her tenure at the network. While her time at NBC was short-lived and marked by challenges, it represented a significant transition in her career and highlighted the complexities of navigating the changing media landscape.

Current Projects and Future Endeavors

Following her departure from NBC News, Megyn Kelly has remained active in the media landscape, albeit in different capacities. She launched her own media company, Devil May Care Media, which focuses on producing podcasts and other digital content. Her flagship podcast, "The Megyn Kelly Show," has gained a significant following, featuring interviews with prominent figures from politics, media, and culture. On her podcast, Kelly offers her unique perspective on current events, often delving into controversial topics and challenging conventional wisdom. She has interviewed a wide range of guests, including politicians, journalists, and celebrities, providing her audience with diverse viewpoints and insights. In addition to her podcast, Kelly has also been active on social media, using platforms like Twitter and Instagram to share her thoughts and engage with her audience. She often comments on political and social issues, sparking discussions and debates. Kelly has also made occasional appearances on other media outlets, offering commentary and analysis on news events. While she is no longer a daily presence on television, she remains a prominent voice in the media landscape, continuing to influence public discourse through her various platforms. Looking ahead, it is likely that Kelly will continue to focus on her podcast and digital media ventures. She has expressed a desire to maintain her independence and control over her content, allowing her to speak freely and engage in meaningful conversations. Whether she will return to television in the future remains to be seen, but her current projects demonstrate her ongoing commitment to journalism and her ability to adapt to the changing media environment. For Megyn Kelly, the next chapter promises to be as dynamic and engaging as her previous ones.