Megyn Kelly has been one of the most well-known figures in American media over the past two decades. From her early days as a lawyer to becoming a prominent television personality and journalist, Kelly has managed to build a multi-faceted career. Over the years, she has not only gained fame for her incisive interviews and bold commentary but also amassed a significant net worth. In this article, we’ll explore Megyn Kelly net worth, her career trajectory, her personal life including her husband and son, and what factors have contributed to her financial success.
Who is Megyn Kelly?
Megyn Kelly was born on November 18, 1970, in Champaign, Illinois. Initially pursuing a career in law, she graduated from Syracuse University College of Law in 1995. However, her career took a sharp turn towards journalism when she joined a local television station as a reporter. Kelly’s combination of charisma, intelligence, and sharp interviewing skills quickly propelled her to national recognition.
She made a name for herself as a news anchor on Fox News before eventually joining NBC. Known for her tough, no-nonsense approach to news coverage and her ability to engage in high-stakes political debates, Kelly has become one of the most prominent voices in American media.
Megyn Kelly’s Career Milestones
Kelly’s career spans several high-profile roles across major news networks:
- Fox News (2004–2017)
- Megyn Kelly rose to fame at Fox News, where she anchored “The Kelly File,” a program that focused on political analysis, current events, and celebrity interviews. Her time at Fox saw her become one of the most popular figures on the network, known for her fearless approach to controversial topics.
- During this time, she also moderated several presidential debates, including the 2016 Republican primary debate. Her confrontation with Donald Trump during the first debate became a defining moment in her career.
- NBC News (2017–2018)
- After leaving Fox News in 2017, Kelly signed a multi-million-dollar deal with NBC News to host “Megyn Kelly Today,” a morning show that aimed to combine news and entertainment. Unfortunately, the show struggled to find its audience and was canceled after only one season.
- Independent Projects and Podcasting (2019–Present)
- After her time at NBC, Kelly pivoted to podcasting and independent media. She launched “The Megyn Kelly Show,” which covers political commentary, current events, and interviews with newsmakers. Kelly has continued to maintain a strong following, reaching new audiences through digital platforms and social media.
Megyn Kelly Net Worth
As of 2024, Megyn Kelly net worth is estimated to be around $80 million to $90 million. Her wealth has been accumulated over the course of her long career in television, media, and business ventures. Let’s break down some key contributors to her financial success:
- Television Contracts: Kelly’s contracts with Fox News and NBC were worth millions of dollars. Her 2017 move to NBC was particularly lucrative, with reports stating that the deal was worth up to $18 million annually.
- Book Deals: In 2016, Kelly released her memoir, Settle for More, which became a bestseller. The book provided insights into her career, her personal life, and her departure from Fox News. Book deals have been an important revenue stream for Kelly over the years.
- Podcasting and Online Ventures: Kelly’s podcasting career, with “The Megyn Kelly Show”, continues to thrive. While the financial specifics of her podcasting ventures are not publicly disclosed, they certainly contribute to her overall income. Digital platforms like YouTube and Spotify have become increasingly lucrative for creators, and Kelly has successfully monetized her podcast.
- Public Speaking and Appearances: As a former television anchor and political analyst, Kelly also earns money through speaking engagements, hosting events, and media appearances. These public speaking gigs are an additional stream of revenue.
Megyn Kelly’s Family: Husband, Son, and Personal Life
While Megyn Kelly is known for her career accomplishments, her family life also plays a significant role in her story. Kelly is married to Douglas Brunt, a successful entrepreneur, and author. Brunt was the CEO of the cybersecurity company Authentium and later became a novelist. The couple married in 2008, and their relationship has been a solid foundation throughout Kelly’s career. Together, they have three children.
Megyn Kelly’s Husband: Douglas Brunt
Douglas Brunt was born on August 25, 1968, in Philadelphia. He is a highly educated man with a degree from Duke University and an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Brunt has authored several novels, including The Terra Cotta Army and The Means. He has largely kept out of the public spotlight, choosing to stay out of the media as Kelly’s career has taken the limelight.
Though Kelly’s career has brought her into the public eye, Brunt has supported her every step of the way. In interviews, Kelly often speaks about her strong partnership with her husband and their shared commitment to family.
Megyn Kelly’s Son and Children
Megyn Kelly and Douglas Brunt have three children: Edward Yates Brunt, born in 2009, Yates Brunt, born in 2011, and Thérèse Brunt, born in 2013. Kelly has spoken openly about her life as a mother and the challenges of balancing her demanding career with raising her children. Despite her high-profile career, Kelly has made it a priority to spend time with her family.
In 2018, Kelly opened up about the impact of parenthood on her professional decisions. She described the joy and complexity of raising children in a public life, offering insight into the sacrifices parents often have to make.
Controversies and Challenges
While Kelly’s career has been a success, she has not been without controversy. Her departure from Fox News and her subsequent time at NBC News were marked by disputes over her style and editorial decisions. In particular, her comments about blackface for Halloween in 2018 led to public backlash and the cancellation of her NBC show.
However, Kelly managed to weather these challenges by focusing on her podcasting career and leveraging her reputation as a bold, independent voice in media. Despite the setbacks, her financial acumen and ability to adapt to changing media landscapes have allowed her to remain a significant figure in the industry.
Conclusion
Megyn Kelly net worth of $80 million to $90 million is a testament to her success as a journalist, media personality, author, and entrepreneur. Her career, which has spanned prominent roles at Fox News, NBC, and in independent media, has been a source of both professional triumphs and challenges.
Aside from her work, Kelly’s family life with her husband, Douglas Brunt, and their three children remains a key focus of her personal narrative. Despite public controversies, Kelly has shown remarkable resilience, and her ability to reinvent herself in the ever-changing media landscape ensures that her influence and financial success will likely continue for years to come. Whether you’re following her career as a journalist, a podcaster, or a mother, Megyn Kelly’s journey is a fascinating example of how a determined and talented individual can navigate the complexities of fame, wealth, and family life.
Ekaterina