Megyn Kelly, a renowned journalist and former television news anchor, has established herself as a powerful voice in media. From her early days at Fox News to her transition to NBC and now as a successful podcaster, Kelly’s career trajectory has been marked by significant milestones. This article explores Megyn Kelly’s estimated net worth, career highlights, major earnings, and how she became a household name.
Early Life and Education
Born on November 18, 1970, in Champaign, Illinois, Megyn Marie Kelly grew up in a middle-class family. Her father was a professor at the State University of New York, and her mother was a homemaker. Kelly faced adversity early in life when her father passed away when she was 15.
Kelly attended Syracuse University, where she earned a degree in political science. Later, she pursued a Juris Doctor at Albany Law School. Her legal background would later become a strong foundation for her analytical and interviewing skills in journalism.
Transition from Law to Journalism
Before entering journalism, Kelly worked as an attorney at a law firm in Chicago. Her switch to journalism came in the early 2000s when she joined ABC affiliate WJLA-TV in Washington, D.C., as a general assignment reporter. Her reporting skills and on-screen presence quickly caught the attention of major networks.
Joining Fox News
In 2004, Kelly joined Fox News, where she rose to prominence. Her legal expertise and sharp interviewing skills made her a standout anchor. She hosted several shows, including America Live and The Kelly File.
The Kelly File became one of the highest-rated cable news programs, making Kelly a household name. Her fearless approach to interviews and her ability to tackle tough topics set her apart.
Moving to NBC
In 2017, Kelly left Fox News to join NBC. She hosted Megyn Kelly Today, a morning talk show. Despite her efforts to transition into a softer news format, the show faced challenges and was eventually canceled in 2018.
Independent Ventures
Following her departure from NBC, Kelly launched her independent media ventures. She started The Megyn Kelly Show, a podcast where she discusses current events, interviews high-profile guests, and provides unfiltered commentary.
This independent move allowed her to connect directly with her audience without network constraints.
Megyn Kelly’s Net Worth in 2024
As of 2024, Megyn Kelly’s estimated net worth is around $45 million. Her wealth comes from various income streams, including:
1. Television Salaries
Kelly’s time at Fox News and NBC brought in significant earnings. At Fox News, her annual salary reportedly peaked at $6 million. At NBC, her contract was worth an estimated $69 million over three years, although she left the network before completing her contract.
2. Podcast and Independent Media
Kelly’s podcast, The Megyn Kelly Show, has been a financial success. She earns from sponsorships, advertisements, and subscription-based content. With millions of downloads per episode, the podcast generates substantial revenue.
3. Book Deals
In 2016, Kelly published her memoir, Settle for More, which became a bestseller. The book deal reportedly earned her an advance of $10 million.
4. Speaking Engagements
Kelly is a sought-after speaker at events and conferences. Her speaking engagements contribute significantly to her income.
Real Estate Investments
Megyn Kelly has made savvy real estate investments. She owns properties in New York City and the Hamptons. Her Manhattan home, purchased for $6 million, is a luxurious penthouse with stunning city views.
Career Achievements
Kelly has received several awards and accolades for her work in journalism. She was included in Time magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people in 2014. Her fearless reporting during the 2016 presidential election, particularly her tough questioning of Donald Trump, cemented her reputation as a formidable journalist.
Controversies and Challenges
Like many public figures, Kelly’s career has not been without controversy. Her comments on blackface during a segment on Megyn Kelly Today led to public backlash and ultimately her departure from NBC. Despite such setbacks, Kelly has remained resilient, using these experiences to grow and evolve her career.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Kelly is actively involved in philanthropy. She supports organizations that focus on child welfare, education, and women’s empowerment. She has also been an advocate for sexual harassment victims, sharing her own experiences to bring attention to workplace issues.
The Future of Megyn Kelly
As of 2024, Kelly shows no signs of slowing down. Her independent media ventures continue to thrive, and she remains a significant voice in political and cultural commentary. With her podcast and other projects, Kelly is redefining success in modern journalism.
Conclusion
Megyn Kelly’s journey from a small-town girl to a media powerhouse is a testament to her talent, resilience, and determination. Her estimated net worth of $45 million reflects not only her financial success but also her impact on the media industry. As she continues to evolve in her career, Kelly’s story inspires many aspiring journalists and entrepreneurs.
