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. She hosts The Megyn Kelly Show on Sirius XM and YouTube. She previously hosted programs on Fox News (2004-2017), including America Live and The Kelly File, and anchored Megyn Kelly Today on NBC News (2017-2018). In 2014, she was recognized as one of Time's 100 most influential people.

Sections (4)

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

2002: Josh Duggar's alleged molestation

In 2002, Josh Duggar allegedly molested five girls.

2005: Trump's sexual comments

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

December 2013: Santa Claus Comments

In December 2013, Megyn Kelly made controversial comments on The Kelly File regarding the race of Santa Claus and Jesus, which were later satirized by Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert, and others. She later clarified her comments as "tongue-in-cheek".

August 6, 2015: Republican Party presidential debate

On August 6, 2015, Megyn Kelly asked Donald Trump a question about his temperament during the Republican Party presidential debate, which led to media and political reactions, including criticism from Trump. After the debate, Ted Cruz said that Kelly had referred to Trump off-camera as "Voldemort".

July 2016: Roger Ailes allegations of sexual harassment

In July 2016, amid allegations of sexual harassment on the part of Fox News CEO Roger Ailes, Kelly was reported to have confirmed that she herself was also subjected to his harassment. Two days after the report, Ailes resigned from Fox News and his lawyer publicly denied the charge.

2016: Clash with Donald Trump during 2016 campaign

During the 2016 campaign, Donald Trump referred to Megyn Kelly as "nasty" following a widely publicized debate exchange.

October 23, 2018: Blackface Comments

On October 23, 2018, Megyn Kelly made on-air remarks on Megyn Kelly Today related to the appropriateness of blackface as part of Halloween costumes, resulting in criticism and an internal apology.

2018: Criticism of lawmakers after the Parkland shooting

In 2018, following the Parkland shooting, Megyn Kelly criticized lawmakers for their failure to pass meaningful gun reform, citing the NRA's influence as a barrier.

June 2023: Shift in opinion on preferred pronouns

In June 2023, Kelly explained that her opinion had shifted from supporting "preferred pronouns" to opposing them, citing concerns about their connection to gender-affirming care for minors.

October 2024: Criticism of Taylor Swift's endorsement of Kamala Harris

In October 2024, Megyn Kelly criticized Taylor Swift for endorsing Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election, accusing Swift of "alienating half her fan base."