7 Female Fox News Anchors Who Departed

Hey everyone! It's no secret that the media landscape is always shifting, and sometimes that means our favorite faces on television decide to move on to new adventures. Today, we're going to dive into a topic that sparks a lot of curiosity: 7 female anchors leaving Fox News. You guys might be wondering who these women are, why they left, and what they're up to now. It’s a common question, and honestly, it’s fascinating to track the careers of these talented journalists. When a prominent figure departs from a major network like Fox News, it always creates ripples, and viewers often feel a sense of connection and curiosity about their next steps. We'll be exploring some of the most notable departures, looking at their time at the network, the circumstances surrounding their exits, and where their professional journeys have taken them since. So, grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and let's get into it!

Understanding the Dynamics of Network Departures

When we talk about female anchors leaving Fox News, it's important to understand that these decisions are rarely simple. There are a myriad of reasons why talented professionals choose to leave a high-profile position. Sometimes, it's about seeking new opportunities and challenges elsewhere. Perhaps a different network offers a role with more responsibility, a different kind of program, or a chance to work in a new market. Other times, the reasons can be more complex, involving contractual disagreements, shifts in network strategy, or even personal decisions to prioritize family or pursue different career paths outside of broadcasting. It's also worth noting that the media industry, while glamorous on the surface, can be demanding. Long hours, constant public scrutiny, and the pressure to always be on can take a toll. For many, a departure might be a chance to regain balance or explore interests beyond the 24/7 news cycle. The departure of prominent female anchors can also sometimes be linked to broader industry trends, such as the rise of digital media, the changing consumption habits of audiences, or even internal shifts in the network's editorial direction or on-air talent roster. It's a dynamic environment, and people move. We've seen this play out time and time again across all major networks, not just Fox News. Each anchor's story is unique, shaped by their individual career goals, personal circumstances, and the specific environment at the network during their tenure. Understanding these underlying dynamics helps us appreciate the complex tapestry of careers in broadcast journalism. It's not just about one person leaving; it's often a confluence of professional, personal, and industry factors that lead to such a significant career change. We're going to explore some specific examples of female anchors who left Fox News, giving you the lowdown on their time there and what came next.

1. Gretchen Carlson: A Trailblazer's Exit

When you think about female anchors leaving Fox News, Gretchen Carlson is undeniably one of the most prominent figures. Her departure wasn't just a quiet exit; it was a watershed moment that had significant implications not only for her career but also for the broader media industry. Carlson, a former Miss America, had a long and successful tenure at Fox News, co-hosting Fox & Friends before moving to her own daytime show, The Real Story with Gretchen Carlson. Her transition into hosting her own program highlighted her growing influence and journalistic capabilities. However, her story took a dramatic turn when she decided not to renew her contract in 2016. The reason for her departure, as she bravely revealed, was her decision to file a sexual harassment lawsuit against the network's former CEO, Roger Ailes. This was a monumental decision, requiring immense courage and a strong sense of conviction. Carlson's lawsuit alleged a pattern of harassment and retaliation, and it wasn't long before other women at the network came forward with similar accusations. Her willingness to speak out publicly and pursue legal action against such a powerful figure in the media industry was truly groundbreaking. It brought to light the often-hidden struggles faced by women in the workplace and sparked a larger conversation about corporate accountability and the need for safer work environments. Following her departure from Fox News, Carlson became a leading voice in the #MeToo movement. She didn't just leave a job; she embarked on a mission to advocate for workplace rights and gender equality. She founded the Gretchen Carlson Center for Women in Leadership and has been a tireless speaker and author, sharing her story and empowering others to come forward. Her book, Be Fierce, became a bestseller, detailing her experiences and offering advice to women facing similar challenges. Carlson's exit from Fox News, while perhaps initiated by difficult circumstances, ultimately led her to a powerful advocacy role, making her one of the most impactful figures among female anchors leaving Fox News.

2. Andrea Tantaros: A Voice Silenced?

Another name that often comes up when discussing female anchors leaving Fox News is Andrea Tantaros. Tantaros was a familiar face on the network, known for her strong opinions and engaging presence, particularly as a co-host on Outnumbered and later as a host of The Story. She joined Fox News in 2010 and quickly became a popular personality, contributing to the network's daytime and primetime programming. Her sharp commentary and ability to articulate her viewpoints made her a standout. However, her tenure at Fox News came to an abrupt end in 2016. Like Gretchen Carlson, Tantaros also filed a sexual harassment lawsuit against Roger Ailes and other executives at the network. Her lawsuit alleged a pattern of harassment and retaliation, claiming that she was demoted and eventually pushed out of her role after reporting the alleged misconduct. Tantaros's case brought further attention to the allegations that were surfacing at the time, adding weight to the growing chorus of women speaking out. Her departure was quite sudden, and details surrounding the specifics of her exit remained largely private for some time, fueling speculation. After leaving Fox News, Tantaros largely withdrew from the public eye for a period. This silence, following her very public role on television, led many to wonder about her next steps. Unlike some others who immediately pivoted to new media ventures or advocacy, Tantaros took time away from the spotlight. This period of quiet reflection might have been necessary for her as she navigated the aftermath of her legal battle and personal experiences. While she hasn't returned to mainstream television news in the same capacity, her story remains a significant part of the narrative surrounding female anchors leaving Fox News and the challenges they have faced within the industry. Her experience underscores the courage it takes to speak out against powerful institutions and the personal toll such actions can have.

3. Megyn Kelly: The High-Profile Defector

When discussing prominent female anchors leaving Fox News, Megyn Kelly is a name that cannot be overlooked. Her departure was one of the most highly publicized and discussed exits in recent memory. Kelly rose through the ranks at Fox News, becoming one of its biggest stars. She hosted America Live and later The Kelly File, a primetime show that was a consistent ratings success. Her sharp interviewing skills, no-nonsense demeanor, and willingness to engage in tough political debates made her a formidable presence in cable news. She was particularly known for her exchanges with political figures, including her memorable confrontation with Donald Trump during a Republican presidential debate in 2015. Her contract with Fox News was set to expire in 2017, and the speculation about her future was intense. Ultimately, Kelly decided not to renew her contract, opting instead for a lucrative deal with NBC News. Her move to NBC was seen as a major coup for the network, aiming to leverage her star power for a new daily syndicated news program and other broadcast ventures. The decision to leave Fox News was multifaceted. While contract negotiations likely played a role, reports suggested that Kelly was seeking a broader platform and perhaps a different type of journalistic environment. Her time at Fox News coincided with many of the internal shifts and controversies the network faced, and her own experiences, including her public clashes with Roger Ailes, likely influenced her decision. At NBC, Kelly hosted Megyn Kelly Today, a daytime talk show that aimed to blend hard news with softer, more personal segments. However, the show faced challenges with ratings and critical reception. Despite her initial success at Fox News, her transition to NBC proved to be less smooth than anticipated, and the show was eventually canceled. Following her departure from NBC, Kelly has maintained a presence online, producing her own podcast and continuing to share her views. Her story is a prime example of a high-profile anchor making a significant career pivot, highlighting both the opportunities and the inherent risks involved when leaving a familiar and successful platform like Fox News. Her journey illustrates the complexities faced by even the most established female anchors when navigating career changes in the demanding world of television news.

4. Lis Wiehl: A Quiet Transition

While some departures from Fox News generate headlines and public debate, others are more understated. Lis Wiehl falls into the latter category. Wiehl was a legal analyst and commentator for Fox News for many years, appearing frequently on various programs to offer her expertise on legal matters. She also co-authored several books with Bill O'Reilly. Her contributions were consistent, and she was a respected voice on legal issues within the network's programming. Wiehl's exit from Fox News wasn't marked by public statements or lawsuits; rather, it was a more gradual and private transition. She stopped appearing on the network around 2018, and her departure didn't trigger the same level of media attention as some of the other anchors on this list. This type of quiet exit is not uncommon in the media industry. Sometimes, contracts simply expire and are not renewed, or individuals decide to pursue other opportunities without seeking widespread publicity. It could be that Wiehl sought to focus on her writing career, her legal practice, or perhaps personal endeavors. Without a public announcement, the exact reasons for her departure remain speculative. However, her long tenure and consistent presence indicate a significant period of her professional life spent at Fox News. Her story is a reminder that not all departures are dramatic. Many talented individuals move on to new chapters in their careers with little fanfare, and that's perfectly fine. The reasons can be as varied as the individuals themselves, ranging from seeking new professional challenges, a desire for a different work-life balance, or simply moving on to the next phase of their career. While she might not have made headlines for her exit, Lis Wiehl's contributions to Fox News were notable, and her departure represents another instance of a respected female anchor moving on from the network.

5. Catherine Herridge: A Move to Investigative Journalism

Catherine Herridge is another respected journalist whose departure from Fox News marked a significant career shift. Herridge had a long and distinguished career at Fox News, serving as a correspondent and later as senior investigative reporter. She was known for her in-depth reporting, particularly on national security, intelligence, and legal matters. Her investigative pieces often tackled complex and sensitive topics, earning her a reputation for thoroughness and dedication. She was a key figure in the network's coverage of major national stories, and her work provided valuable insights to viewers. Herridge’s departure from Fox News occurred in early 2023, and it was announced that she would be joining CBS News as a correspondent. This move signaled a transition from a major cable news network to a broadcast network, often perceived as a different sphere of television journalism. Her role at CBS News was expected to focus on continued investigative reporting, allowing her to utilize her established skills and expertise in a new environment. The decision to move networks is often driven by a desire for new challenges, different editorial focuses, or simply the opportunity to contribute to another esteemed news organization. For Herridge, it appears to have been a strategic career move aimed at continuing her passion for investigative journalism. While leaving a familiar network after many years can be a difficult decision, the prospect of a new role at a different prestigious outlet likely presented an exciting opportunity. Her transition is a testament to her skills and the demand for experienced investigative reporters in the industry. She represents a segment of female anchors and reporters leaving Fox News who are making strategic career advancements to further their journalistic pursuits. Her story highlights that departures aren't always about dissatisfaction but can be about growth and new opportunities.

6. Arthel Neville: A Return to Roots

Arthel Neville is a seasoned journalist with a wealth of experience across various networks, and her time at Fox News was a notable chapter. Neville joined Fox News in 2014, serving as an anchor and correspondent. She brought a wealth of experience from her previous roles at CNN and other local news stations, contributing to the network's coverage of significant events and anchoring various programs. Her presence added a layer of gravitas and diverse perspective to the Fox News lineup. However, Neville's departure from Fox News was part of a larger trend of anchors moving on to explore different professional avenues. In 2021, it was announced that she would be leaving Fox News to return to her home state of Louisiana and focus on local news and community-based journalism. This decision marked a significant pivot from national cable news to a more localized approach. Neville expressed a desire to be closer to her family and to dedicate her time and talents to serving her local community through journalism. This kind of move reflects a personal choice to prioritize family and local engagement over the demands of a national platform. It's a sentiment that resonates with many who seek to make a tangible impact closer to home. Her return to Louisiana was seen as a homecoming, allowing her to leverage her extensive experience in a way that felt more personally fulfilling. While her departure meant a loss for national viewers who enjoyed her anchoring, it represented a fulfilling next step for Neville. Her story is an example of female anchors leaving Fox News not necessarily due to discontent, but out of a conscious choice to realign their careers with personal values and community connections. It showcases the diverse motivations behind career changes in the broadcast world.

7. Brenda Shuler: From Anchor to Advocate

Brenda Shuler is another respected journalist whose career has seen various stages, including a period at Fox News. While her time at Fox News might not have been as lengthy or high-profile as some of the others on this list, her presence contributed to the network's reporting. Shuler has had a career that spanned several decades and various media outlets, often focusing on legal and crime reporting. Her experience in covering complex stories has made her a recognized voice in the field. Information regarding the specifics of her departure from Fox News is not as widely publicized as some of the more prominent exits. It's possible her contract concluded, or she moved on to pursue other opportunities in journalism or related fields. What's clear is that Shuler, like many seasoned journalists, has navigated different networks and roles throughout her career. Following her time at Fox News, and indeed throughout her career, Shuler has also been known to engage in advocacy work, particularly concerning victims of crime and issues related to the justice system. This aspect of her professional life often complements her journalistic background, allowing her to use her platform and experience to shed light on important societal issues. Her journey represents the many female anchors leaving Fox News who transition into different facets of the media and advocacy world. These transitions are often driven by a desire to apply their expertise in new ways or to focus on causes they are passionate about. Shuler's story, while perhaps less in the spotlight, is a valuable addition to understanding the diverse paths taken by female anchors after their time with major networks.

Conclusion: A Constantly Evolving Landscape

As we've explored these seven examples, it's clear that the decisions of female anchors leaving Fox News are as varied as the anchors themselves. From groundbreaking legal battles and courageous advocacy to strategic career advancements and personal homecomings, each story offers a unique perspective on the complexities of the television news industry. The departures of figures like Gretchen Carlson and Andrea Tantaros highlighted significant issues within the workplace, sparking crucial conversations and driving real change. Megyn Kelly's high-profile move demonstrated the ambitious career pivots that even established stars undertake, showcasing the risks and rewards of chasing new opportunities. Meanwhile, the quieter transitions of Lis Wiehl and Brenda Shuler remind us that many talented professionals move on with less fanfare, pursuing new chapters in their careers or dedicating themselves to different passions. Catherine Herridge's move to CBS and Arthel Neville's return to local journalism exemplify the diverse pathways available, whether it's a desire for continued investigative work or a longing for community connection. These female anchors leaving Fox News are not just individuals moving from one job to another; they are professionals navigating a dynamic and often challenging industry. Their journeys reflect broader trends in media, the evolving roles of women in journalism, and the personal choices that shape career trajectories. The media landscape is in constant flux, and the stories of these anchors are a testament to that reality. Their departures, whether public or private, significant or subtle, all contribute to the ongoing narrative of broadcast journalism and the evolving careers of the women who shape it. It's always fascinating to watch where these talented individuals land next, and we wish them all the best in their future endeavors. What are your thoughts on these departures? Let us know in the comments below!