Major Controversies Surrounding Megyn Kelly: A Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Megyn Kelly.

Megyn Kelly is an American journalist, attorney, political commentator, and media personality. Known for her work at Fox News (2004-2017) where she hosted programs like America Live and The Kelly File, and later at NBC News (2017-2018) with Megyn Kelly Today. Currently, she hosts The Megyn Kelly Show, a talk show and podcast on SiriusXM's Triumph channel and YouTube. In 2025, Kelly launched MK Media, a podcast and video network. She has been recognized as one of Time's 100 most influential people in both 2014 and 2025.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Controversies & Scandals

2002: Josh Duggar Molestation Allegations

In June 2015, Megyn Kelly interviewed the Duggar family regarding the allegations that Josh Duggar had molested five girls in 2002.

2005: Trump's Sexual Comments in Audio Recording

In October 2016, there was a contentious discussion between Kelly and Newt Gingrich on The Kelly File regarding Trump's sexual comments in a 2005 audio recording, which gained widespread social media reaction.

December 2013: Santa Claus Remarks

In December 2013, Megyn Kelly commented on the ethnicity of Santa Claus on The Kelly File, sparking satire from various media figures.

August 6, 2015: Republican Party Presidential Debate

On August 6, 2015, during a Republican Party presidential debate, Megyn Kelly questioned Donald Trump, leading to media and political reactions and criticism from Trump.

July 2016: Reported Harassment by Roger Ailes

In July 2016, amidst allegations of sexual harassment against Fox News CEO Roger Ailes, Megyn Kelly confirmed that she herself had been subjected to his harassment.

October 23, 2018: Criticism for blackface remarks

On October 23, 2018, Megyn Kelly received criticism for remarks made on Megyn Kelly Today regarding the appropriateness of blackface in Halloween costumes, recalling it being acceptable when she was a child and defending Luann de Lesseps's use of skin darkening spray for a Diana Ross costume.

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March 2, 2026: Split with the Trump Administration over the 2026 Iran War

On March 2, 2026, Megyn Kelly would split with the Trump Administration over the 2026 Iran war, notably questioning why U.S. military members died in a conflict which mainly involved Iran and Israel. Trump declared that both Kelly and Tucker Carlson "aren't MAGA".

March 20, 2026: Defense of Joe Kent on The Megyn Kelly Show

Two weeks later Kelly would also defend former National Counterterrorism Center head Joe Kent amid the Trump Administration's efforts to pursue an investigation against him. On the March 20, 2026 episode of The Megyn Kelly Show, Kent himself would be a guest, informing Kelly that he no regrets for his decision to break with the Trump Administration over the Iran War and feared retaliation. In addition, Kent also alleged to Kelly that the Trump Administration had not done enough to investigate the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

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