Who is Megyn Kelly?
Megyn Marie Kelly (born November 18, 1970) is a prominent American journalist, attorney, political commentator, and media personality. She is widely recognized for her work in both television and online platforms. Kelly rose to fame through her work at Fox News, where she hosted popular programs like “America Live” and “The Kelly File.” After her tenure at Fox News, she moved to NBC and hosted “Megyn Kelly Today” before transitioning to independent media with her podcast, “The Megyn Kelly Show,” which airs on Sirius XM.
Early Life and Education
Megyn Kelly was born on November 18, 1970, in Champaign, Illinois, to Edward Francis Kelly, an academic and psychologist, and Linda DeMaio, a homemaker. Growing up, she showed an interest in academics and public speaking, characteristics that would later define her career.
Kelly attended a number of schools due to her father’s academic work, but it was in the suburbs of Chicago that she spent much of her childhood. After graduating from high school, she pursued higher education at Syracuse University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science. She continued her education at Albany Law School, where she received a Juris Doctor (JD) in 1995.
Her time in law school was pivotal in shaping her future career path. Kelly initially pursued a career in law, and after passing the bar, she worked at a law firm specializing in labor and employment law. However, her passion for media and communication soon led her to pivot from law to journalism.
Personal Life
Megyn Kelly’s personal life has been a subject of interest for many over the years. She is known for her assertiveness, intelligence, and candidness, both in her career and personal life. Kelly has often used her platform to speak about the challenges she has faced, such as navigating the pressures of being a female journalist in a male-dominated field.
She married her first husband, Dr. Daniel Kendall, in 2001, but the couple divorced in 2006. The breakdown of their marriage was a highly publicized event, and Kelly later reflected on the importance of her career and personal growth during this time.
In 2008, Kelly remarried to Douglas Brunt, a former FBI agent, novelist, and entrepreneur. They have three children together, and their family life is often depicted as one of balance, with Kelly speaking openly about the difficulties of balancing her high-profile career with raising a family.
Family
Megyn Kelly comes from a family with an academic and intellectual background. Her father, Edward Kelly, was a respected professor and psychologist, which influenced Kelly’s emphasis on education and intellectual curiosity. She has often spoken about how her parents instilled in her a sense of discipline and the importance of hard work.
Kelly has three siblings, and although she remains somewhat private about her extended family, her immediate family has been a source of support throughout her career. Her relationship with her parents and siblings is close, and they have remained an important part of her life, despite her public persona.
Detailed Bio Table
| Full Name | Megyn Marie Kelly |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | November 18, 1970 |
| Place of Birth | Champaign, Illinois, USA |
| Parents’ Names | Edward Francis Kelly (father), Linda DeMaio (mother) |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) |
| Education | Syracuse University (BA), Albany Law School (JD) |
| Occupation | Journalist, Attorney, Political Commentator |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated at $45 million |
| Spouse(s) | Daniel Kendall (2001-2006), Douglas Brunt (2008–present) |
| Children | 3 |
| Years Active | 2003–present |
| Notable Work | “The Kelly File,” “Megyn Kelly Today,” “The Megyn Kelly Show” |
Career
Megyn Kelly’s career trajectory is one of resilience and transformation. After completing law school, she worked as a lawyer at a private law firm, where she dealt primarily with labor and employment issues. However, Kelly’s ambition and interest in broadcasting led her to leave law behind to pursue a career in journalism.
Her first job in the media was with a local television station, WJLA, in Washington, D.C. where she began as a reporter and anchor. This initial exposure allowed Kelly to gain a strong foundation in journalism, and soon after, she joined Fox News in 2004. At Fox News, Kelly initially worked as a reporter, but her big break came when she was given her own show, America Live. Her on-screen presence and ability to handle breaking news with poise and professionalism made her a standout.
In 2013, Kelly took over the 9 p.m. hour at Fox News, hosting The Kelly File, a show that combined in-depth interviews with breaking news coverage. During her time at Fox, Kelly became one of the network’s top personalities, gaining a reputation for her tough, no-nonsense interviewing style. She interviewed many prominent figures, including politicians, celebrities, and business leaders, solidifying her role as one of the top journalists in the country.
In 2017, Kelly made a high-profile move to NBC News, where she hosted Megyn Kelly Today, a morning show that aimed to combine hard news with lifestyle topics. Unfortunately, the show struggled with ratings, and in 2018, Kelly parted ways with NBC. This was a turning point in her career, as she returned to her roots in podcasting and independent media.
In 2020, Kelly launched The Megyn Kelly Show, a daily podcast and SiriusXM radio show that covers a wide range of topics, from politics to culture. The podcast has been well-received, and Kelly’s audience has grown as she continues to offer a fresh perspective on current events and media trends. Her transition from network television to independent media has been widely regarded as a smart move, allowing her to speak freely without the constraints of a traditional network.
Throughout her career, Kelly has been known for her candidness and willingness to speak her mind. Whether discussing political issues, gender dynamics in the media, or her personal experiences, she has built a brand based on transparency and boldness.
Megyn Kelly’s journey from a young law graduate to one of the most influential media personalities in the United States is a testament to her determination, intelligence, and adaptability. Her ability to navigate the ever-changing landscape of media, while remaining true to her values, has earned her respect and admiration. Whether as a journalist, talk show host, or podcasting powerhouse, Kelly has continually evolved and reinvented herself, making her an enduring figure in American media.
Latest News
As of January 28, 2025, Megyn Kelly continues to make headlines with her active involvement in political events. On January 17, 2025, she announced that she would be attending President Donald Trump’s second inauguration on January 20th and delivering remarks at his rally the night before.
This marks a significant moment in Kelly’s career, as she has transitioned from a prominent media figure to an active participant in political discourse. Her decision to speak at the rally underscores her ongoing influence and engagement in the political landscape.
Kelly’s involvement in the inauguration and rally highlights her continued prominence in American media and politics, reflecting her ability to navigate and impact the evolving political environment.
Social Media Accounts Table
| Platform | Account | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Megyn Kelly | @megynkelly | |
| Megyn Kelly | @megynkelly | |
| YouTube | The Megyn Kelly Show | Megyn Kelly |
Height and Physical Appearance
Megyn Kelly stands at 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) tall. She is known for her polished and professional appearance. With a blend of sharp facial features and an athletic build, Kelly presents herself as both authoritative and approachable. Her signature blonde hair, often styled in a sleek bob or straightened waves, complements her poised on-screen demeanor.
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Megyn Kelly’s net worth is estimated to be around $45 million. Her wealth comes from a combination of her successful television career, her podcasting, and her various media projects. Kelly was known for securing lucrative contracts during her time with Fox News and NBC, and her continued success with “The Megyn Kelly Show” has solidified her financial standing in the media industry.
FAQS
What happened to Megyn Kelly?
Megyn Kelly transitioned from network television to independent media, hosting her podcast “The Megyn Kelly Show” after leaving NBC in 2018.
What happened to Megyn Kelly’s son?
Megyn Kelly’s son, Edward, had a health scare in 2018 when he was diagnosed with a rare condition but recovered after receiving medical treatment.
How much does Megyn Kelly make a year?
Megyn Kelly’s annual salary is estimated to be around $20 million, primarily from her podcast, media deals, and speaking engagements.
How did Charlize Theron turn into Megyn Kelly?
Charlize Theron portrayed Megyn Kelly in the 2019 film Bombshell, which dramatized the story of Kelly’s career at Fox News and the scandal surrounding Roger Ailes.
