Megyn Kelly, born on November 18, 1970, in Champaign, Illinois, is one of the most influential and polarizing figures in modern American media. Known for her direct style and unwavering confidence, Kelly has carved a distinctive space for herself in the world of journalism, broadcasting, and political commentary.
Key Information
| Field | Details |
| Full Name | Megyn Marie Kelly |
| Date of Birth | November 18, 1970 |
| Place of Birth | Champaign, Illinois, United States |
| Hometown | Delmar, Albany County, New York |
| Age | 54 (as of 2025) |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Irish and Italian descent |
| Religion | Raised Roman Catholic; has expressed evolving spiritual views over time |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (168 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 130 lbs (59 kg) |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Education | – B.A. in Political Science, Syracuse University
– J.D., Albany Law School |
| Occupation | Journalist, Lawyer, Author, Political Commentator, Podcast Host |
| Years Active | 2003–present |
| Former Employers | – Bickel & Brewer LLP
– Jones Day – WJLA-TV – Fox News – NBC News |
| Current Media Venture | Devil May Care Media – An Independent media company founded by Kelly |
| Podcast | The Megyn Kelly Show |
| Spouse | Douglas Brunt (m. 2008) – Former CEO of Authentium; novelist |
| Children | Three children: Yates, Yardley, and Thatcher Brunt |
| Residence | Lives with family in Connecticut, United States |
| Books Authored | Settle for More (2016) – New York Times Bestseller |
| Net Worth | Estimated $45 million (as of 2025) |
| Notable Recognition | TIME 100 Most Influential People (2014) |
| Languages | English |
| Political Affiliation | Independent; formerly associated with conservative circles, but not aligned with any party |
| Legal Specialization | Corporate Litigation |
| Television Highlights | – The Kelly File (Fox News)
– America Live – Megyn Kelly Today (NBC) |
| Hobbies | Fitness, hiking, reading, spending time with family, political analysis |
| Advocacy | Women’s rights, media independence, child protection |
| Philanthropy | Supports causes related to children’s education, media freedom, and cancer research |
| Public Speaking | Frequent speaker on leadership, free speech, women in media, and legal ethics |
Early Life and Education
Megyn was raised in Syracuse, New York, and later moved with her family to Delmar, New York, where she graduated from Bethlehem Central High School. Her academic journey led her to Syracuse University, where she earned an undergraduate degree in Political Science, followed by a J.D. degree from Albany Law School in 1995.
Before entering journalism, Kelly practiced law for nearly a decade, working as an attorney at prestigious firms including Jones Day, where she specialized in corporate litigation. Her legal background would later become a cornerstone of her sharp questioning and analytical style on television.
Rising Through the Media Ranks
In 2003, Kelly transitioned from law to media, beginning her broadcasting career at WJLA-TV, a local ABC affiliate in Washington, D.C. Her strong presence and legal insight quickly caught the attention of national networks. In 2004, she joined Fox News, where her career skyrocketed.
At Fox, she became one of the most recognizable faces, hosting various segments and eventually anchoring her own prime-time show, The Kelly File. Her show became one of the highest-rated programs in cable news, especially during the 2016 U.S. presidential election cycle.
Kelly’s fearless style was on full display during the first Republican primary debate in 2015, where she challenged then-candidate Donald Trump with hard-hitting questions. The exchange drew widespread attention and placed Kelly at the center of a national conversation on media, politics, and gender.
A New Chapter at NBC
In 2017, Kelly made headlines once again when she left Fox News and signed a high-profile deal with NBC News. There, she hosted Megyn Kelly Today, a daytime talk show aimed at a broader audience. The move marked a shift in tone, as she attempted to move beyond politics and into more mainstream territory.
However, the show faced challenges, including public backlash following a segment in which Kelly made controversial remarks about blackface and Halloween costumes. The incident led to her departure from NBC in 2018.
Independent Media and Reinvention
After leaving network television, Megyn Kelly reemerged as an independent media voice. She launched her own production company and began hosting The Megyn Kelly Show, a podcast where she explores political, cultural, and legal topics without the constraints of network oversight.
Through her podcast and digital platforms, Kelly has found renewed relevance, engaging directly with her audience and interviewing high-profile figures from across the ideological spectrum. Her willingness to tackle controversial issues continues to spark debate and maintain her presence in the media spotlight.
Personal Life
Megyn Kelly is married to Douglas Brunt, a novelist and former tech executive. The couple has three children and resides in Connecticut. Despite the demands of her career, Kelly remains a dedicated mother and often speaks about the balance between her personal and professional life.
Legacy and Influence
Megyn Kelly’s journey from courtroom to newsroom reflects her determination, adaptability, and fearlessness. Whether praised or criticized, she has consistently challenged norms and refused to be sidelined in a male-dominated industry.
She represents a new era of journalism where traditional media meets digital independence, and where a strong personal brand can rival even the most established networks. As an author, anchor, podcast host, and commentator, Megyn Kelly continues to shape public discourse and provoke meaningful conversations.
Interesting Facts About Megyn Kelly
- From Law to News
Before entering journalism, Megyn Kelly was a successful corporate lawyer. She worked for Jones Day, one of the largest law firms in the world. - Bold and Unapologetic
She made international headlines after her 2015 GOP debate confrontation with Donald Trump, where she questioned his treatment of women. The clash thrust her into the political spotlight. - Best-selling Author
Her memoir, Settle for More, became a New York Times Bestseller, offering a candid look at her personal life and career, including her experiences with sexism in the workplace. - Fiercely Independent
After high-profile exits from both Fox News and NBC, Kelly took control of her brand by launching her own independent podcast and media production company. - Strong Advocate for Women’s Rights
She was among the prominent women who spoke out during the #MeToo movement, detailing her experiences with sexual harassment in the workplace, particularly involving former Fox News CEO Roger Ailes. - Named One of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People
In 2014, TIME Magazine recognized Kelly as one of the most influential people in the world, highlighting her impact on political journalism and her growing popularity across political lines. - Balancing Career and Family
Despite her intense career, Kelly emphasizes family as a priority. She often shares how she schedules her work around being present for her children. - Controversy Magnet
Megyn Kelly has had her share of on-air controversies, including her 2013 comments about Santa Claus and race, and a 2018 segment on blackface, which led to her NBC departure. Yet, she has used these experiences to evolve and relaunch herself. - Voice for Civil Debate
Through The Megyn Kelly Show, she’s made efforts to bring both conservative and liberal voices to the table, aiming to create space for open, civil discussions often absent in mainstream media. - Fitness and Self-Discipline
Kelly is an advocate of regular fitness and self-care, believing that staying physically and mentally fit helps her perform at her best in high-pressure environments.
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