avigating the ever-evolving landscape of cable news, Fox News has remained a prominent fixture, shaping political discourse and informing millions of viewers. Over the years, numerous news anchors have graced its studios, becoming familiar faces in American households. But what happens to these individuals after they leave Fox News? Where do they go, and what do they do next? This article delves into the journeys of several former Fox News anchors, exploring their post-Fox careers, their motivations for leaving, and the impact they continue to make in the media landscape. From pursuing new journalistic endeavors to exploring different avenues in public life, the paths of these former anchors offer a glimpse into the diverse and dynamic world beyond cable news.

Bill O'Reilly

Bill O'Reilly, a name synonymous with Fox News for over two decades, hosted "The O'Reilly Factor," a primetime show that dominated cable news ratings. His fiery style and no-nonsense approach made him a highly influential figure, but also a controversial one. O'Reilly's tenure at Fox News ended abruptly in 2017 amidst allegations of sexual harassment, leading to his termination and a significant shakeup at the network. Since his departure, O'Reilly has continued to engage with his audience through various platforms. He launched his own website, BillOReilly.com, where he provides commentary on current events, publishes columns, and hosts a daily podcast called "No Spin News." This platform allows him to maintain direct contact with his loyal following, bypassing traditional media gatekeepers. In addition to his online presence, O'Reilly has authored several books, continuing his career as a writer and political commentator. His post-Fox endeavors reflect a determination to remain relevant in the media landscape, albeit on his own terms. Despite the controversies surrounding his departure, O'Reilly's impact on Fox News and cable news in general remains undeniable, and his continued activity demonstrates his enduring influence.

Megyn Kelly

Megyn Kelly, another prominent figure who rose to fame at Fox News, made a name for herself with her sharp interviewing skills and willingness to challenge conventional narratives. Her career at Fox News spanned over a decade, during which she hosted "America Live" and later "The Kelly File," becoming one of the network's most recognizable faces. Kelly's departure from Fox News in 2017 marked a significant shift in her career. She joined NBC News, where she hosted "Megyn Kelly Today," a morning show that aimed to broaden her appeal beyond the cable news audience. However, her tenure at NBC was short-lived and ended after controversial remarks about blackface. Following her departure from NBC, Kelly has reinvented herself as an independent media personality. She launched her own media company, Devil May Care Media, and hosts "The Megyn Kelly Show," a podcast and Sirius XM radio show where she interviews newsmakers, commentators, and cultural figures. This platform allows her to explore a wider range of topics and engage in more in-depth conversations. Kelly's journey after Fox News reflects a desire to control her own narrative and pursue journalistic endeavors on her own terms. Her willingness to challenge established norms and engage in open dialogue has made her a compelling voice in the evolving media landscape.

Gretchen Carlson

Gretchen Carlson's career at Fox News was marked by both success and controversy. As a former co-host of "Fox & Friends" and later the host of "The Real Story with Gretchen Carlson," she was a familiar face to millions of viewers. However, Carlson's tenure at Fox News came to an end in 2016 when she filed a sexual harassment lawsuit against then-CEO Roger Ailes. Her lawsuit sparked a national conversation about workplace harassment and led to Ailes's resignation. Since leaving Fox News, Carlson has become a prominent advocate for women's rights and workplace equality. She has testified before Congress, spoken at numerous events, and written a book titled "Be Fierce: Stop Harassment and Take Your Power Back." Carlson's activism has focused on empowering women to speak out against harassment and discrimination and advocating for stronger legal protections. In addition to her advocacy work, Carlson has also remained involved in media. She hosted a documentary series on A&E called "Gretchen Carlson: Breaking the Silence," which explored the issue of workplace harassment in various industries. Carlson's post-Fox career reflects a commitment to using her platform to effect positive change and advocate for a more equitable society.

Shepard Smith

Shepard Smith was a mainstay at Fox News for over two decades, known for his straightforward reporting and willingness to challenge partisan narratives. As the anchor of "Fox Report" and later "Shepard Smith Reporting," he provided viewers with a no-nonsense approach to the news, often fact-checking and debunking misinformation. Smith's departure from Fox News in 2019 came as a surprise to many, as he had been a fixture at the network for so long. Since leaving Fox News, Smith joined CNBC as the anchor of "The News with Shepard Smith," a nightly news program that aims to provide viewers with unbiased and objective reporting. His decision to join CNBC reflects a desire to continue his career in journalism while maintaining his commitment to factual accuracy and integrity. Smith's move to CNBC has been seen as a significant addition to the network's news division, bringing with him a reputation for credibility and independence. His continued presence in the media landscape demonstrates the importance of fact-based reporting in an increasingly polarized environment.

Other Notable Former Anchors

Besides the prominent figures mentioned above, several other news anchors have left Fox News over the years, each embarking on their own unique paths. Greta Van Susteren, for example, left Fox News in 2016 and joined MSNBC for a brief period before eventually moving to Voice of America. Her career reflects a willingness to explore different media outlets and engage with a global audience. James Rosen, another former Fox News correspondent, has continued his career in journalism, contributing to various publications and media outlets. His work often focuses on political analysis and investigative reporting. These and other former Fox News anchors represent a diverse range of experiences and perspectives, highlighting the dynamic nature of the media industry and the various paths that individuals can take after leaving a major cable news network.

Conclusion

The journeys of former Fox News anchors offer a fascinating glimpse into the world beyond cable news. From pursuing independent media ventures to advocating for social change, these individuals have demonstrated resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to their own values. While their time at Fox News may have defined a significant chapter in their careers, their post-Fox endeavors reflect a desire to continue making an impact in the media landscape and beyond. Whether through journalism, activism, or other forms of public engagement, these former anchors continue to shape the narratives and conversations that define our society. Their stories serve as a reminder that the media landscape is constantly evolving, and that individuals can find success and fulfillment in a variety of different paths.