Megyn Kelly is a name synonymous with fearless journalism, strong opinions, and an ability to hold her ground in an industry dominated by sharp public scrutiny. Over the years, she has proven herself as a powerhouse in the world of news reporting and broadcasting, moving from law to becoming one of the most well-known faces on television. Whether through her time at Fox News or her transition to NBC, Kelly has carved out a space where she can address significant topics while challenging the status quo. This article delves into her journey, notable career milestones, and how she became a figurehead in news reporting.
Early Life and Education: The Foundations of a Trailblazer
Megyn Marie Kelly was born on November 18, 1970, in Chicago, Illinois. Raised in a family that emphasized the importance of education, hard work, and integrity, Kelly’s parents, Edward and Linda Kelly, shaped her drive and ambition. Her father, a professor at the State University of New York at Albany, and her mother, a nurse, instilled in her a strong work ethic and a passion for learning.
Megyn attended Tecumseh Elementary School and later Bishop Kelley High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma. It was during these formative years that she became involved in various extracurricular activities, including writing for the school newspaper and joining the debate team. These experiences nurtured her interest in journalism and communication.
Following her graduation from high school, Kelly enrolled at Syracuse University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in political science in 1992. She then pursued a law degree at Albany Law School, graduating with a Juris Doctor in 1995. Her educational background in law provided her with critical analytical and communication skills, which would later become invaluable in her journalism career. It also laid the groundwork for her unique approach to news reporting, often blending legal analysis with journalistic inquiry.
Transition from Law to Journalism: A Career Reimagined
Before making her mark in journalism, Megyn Kelly spent a decade working as a lawyer. She practiced at the prestigious law firm Jones Day, focusing on litigation and corporate matters. Despite the success she found in law, Kelly was drawn to the dynamic, fast-paced world of journalism.
In 2004, Kelly made the bold decision to transition from law to news, starting her career as a reporter with WJLA-TV, an ABC affiliate in Washington, D.C. Her legal background gave her a unique edge as she covered high-profile court cases and major political events. Her expertise in understanding legal jargon and complex litigation allowed her to break down complicated issues for viewers, making her a standout in the industry.
Rise to Fame at Fox News: Defining Her Voice
Megyn Kelly’s big break came when she joined Fox News in 2004. Over the next decade, she became a household name, recognized for her no-nonsense approach to interviews and her ability to tackle controversial subjects head-on. At Fox, Kelly quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a co-anchor for America’s Newsroom before transitioning to her own prime-time show, The Kelly File, which premiered in 2013.
The Kelly File was one of Fox News’ most-watched programs, and Kelly became known for her sharp, incisive questioning. Her interviewing style was a mix of preparation and confidence, and she wasn’t afraid to challenge political figures, including Donald Trump, during the 2016 Republican presidential debates. This moment, in particular, highlighted Kelly’s journalistic integrity and her refusal to shy away from tough questions, even when it led to public backlash.
Kelly’s years at Fox were not without controversy. Despite this, she became one of the network’s most prominent figures and a leading voice in conservative media. She used her platform to discuss critical topics, including the #MeToo movement, where she became a vocal advocate for women who had faced harassment in the workplace, including her own experiences within the industry.
Moving to NBC: A New Chapter
In 2017, Megyn Kelly made a highly publicized move from Fox News to NBC, signaling a new chapter in her career. At NBC, Kelly hosted the daytime show Megyn Kelly Today, where she attempted to shift from hard news to more lifestyle and human interest content. This transition allowed Kelly to broaden her audience and address different subjects beyond politics, including personal stories, celebrity interviews, and societal issues.
Although Megyn Kelly Today had a promising start, it ultimately faced challenges. The show was canceled in 2018 after Kelly made controversial comments during a discussion about blackface Halloween costumes, which led to a backlash. Following this incident, NBC and Kelly parted ways.
While her time at NBC was brief, Kelly’s impact remained evident. The move allowed her to demonstrate her versatility as a broadcaster and her ability to adapt to different formats, even if the outcome was not what she initially expected.
Body Measurements and Personal Details
Beyond her professional career, Megyn Kelly’s personal life has also been a subject of interest to the public. Known for her poised and confident demeanor on screen, Kelly has always maintained a strong public presence.
- Full Name: Megyn Marie Kelly
- Date of Birth: November 18, 1970
- Birthplace: Champaign, Illinois, USA
- Nationality: American
- Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
- Height: 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters)
- Weight: 58 kg (128 lbs)
- Body Measurements: 35-25-35 inches (89-63.5-89 cm)
- Bra Size: 32C
- Shoe Size: 8 (US)
- Dress Size: 6 (US)
- Hair Color: Blonde
- Eye Color: Blue
Personal Life: Family and Balance
Megyn Kelly’s personal life has often been discussed in the media, especially her ability to balance a demanding career with family responsibilities. She married Douglas Brunt, a novelist and former CEO of Authentium, in 2008. The couple has three children: Edward Yates, Thatcher Bray, and Yardley Evans. Kelly has spoken openly about the challenges of juggling her career with motherhood, often highlighting the importance of family in her life.
Prior to her marriage to Brunt, Kelly was married to anesthesiologist Daniel Kendall from 2001 to 2006. Despite the ups and downs of her personal life, Kelly has consistently maintained that her role as a mother and wife is central to her identity.
Megyn Kelly’s Books and Projects
In addition to her work on television, Megyn Kelly has made significant contributions as an author and public speaker. Her 2016 memoir, Settle for More, was a bestseller, offering a candid look at her life, from her early days growing up in New York to her career as a television journalist. In the book, Kelly provided personal insights into her experiences at Fox News, including her much-publicized feud with Donald Trump and the internal challenges she faced at the network.
Kelly’s book also delved into her experiences with sexual harassment, a subject she became increasingly vocal about during the rise of the #MeToo movement. Her transparency and advocacy for women facing harassment further solidified her role as a champion for women’s rights in the workplace.
In recent years, Kelly has continued to expand her reach through digital media. She launched The Megyn Kelly Show, a podcast where she discusses current events, politics, and culture with a variety of guests. Her move into podcasting has allowed her to maintain her relevance in a rapidly changing media landscape, reaching a new generation of listeners while staying true to her journalistic roots.
Impact and Legacy
Megyn Kelly’s legacy in journalism is significant, marked by her ability to navigate complex political and cultural issues with poise and determination. She has redefined the role of women in news media, proving that strong, independent voices can thrive in even the most contentious environments. From her time at Fox News to her foray into daytime television, Kelly has left an indelible mark on the industry.
Conclusion
Megyn Kelly’s journey from lawyer to one of the most prominent figures in American journalism is a story of grit, perseverance, and evolution. Whether facing controversy or charting new territory in media, Kelly has remained a formidable presence, unafraid to take risks and push boundaries. Her career serves as an example of how passion, determination, and adaptability can lead to lasting success in an ever-evolving industry.
Personal Info
- Full Name: Megyn Marie Kelly
- Date of Birth: November 18, 1970
- Birthplace: Champaign, Illinois, USA
- Height: 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters)
- Weight: 58 kg (128 lbs)
- Body Measurements: 35-25-35 inches (89-63.5-89 cm)
- Bra Size: 32C
- Shoe Size: 8 (US)
- Hair Color: Blonde
- Eye Color: Blue
- Spouse: Douglas Brunt (m. 2008), Daniel Kendall (m. 2001–2006)
- Children: Edward Yates Brunt, Thatcher Bray Brunt, Yardley Evans Brunt
- Education: Syracuse University (BA, 1992), Albany Law School (JD, 1995)
- Books: Settle for More (2016)
- Podcast: The Megyn Kelly Show