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 currently hosts "The Megyn Kelly Show" on Sirius XM and YouTube. She rose to prominence at Fox News from 2004 to 2017, hosting programs like "America Live" and "The Kelly File." Following her time at Fox, she anchored "Megyn Kelly Today" at NBC News from 2017 to 2018. Kelly was recognized as one of TIME Magazine's 100 most influential people in 2014.

Sections (4)

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

2002: Josh Duggar's Alleged Molestation

In June 2015, Megyn Kelly interviewed Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar of 19 Kids and Counting regarding their son Josh Duggar's alleged molestation of five girls in 2002.

2005: Trump's sexual comments

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

December 2013: Santa Claus Controversy

In December 2013, Megyn Kelly commented on a Slate article on The Kelly File, stating "Santa just is white," which led to widespread satire and controversy.

August 6, 2015: Asked Trump Temperament Question

On August 6, 2015, during a Republican Party presidential debate, Megyn Kelly asked Donald Trump whether a man of his temperament ought to be elected president, leading to criticism from Trump and widespread media reaction.

July 2016: Confirmed Harassment by Roger Ailes

In July 2016, amid allegations of sexual harassment against Fox News CEO Roger Ailes, Megyn Kelly was reported to have confirmed that she herself was subjected to his harassment.

2016: Clashed with Trump during campaign

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

October 23, 2018: Blackface Controversy

On October 23, 2018, Megyn Kelly was criticized for on-air remarks she made on Megyn Kelly Today regarding the appropriateness of blackface as part of Halloween costumes. She apologized for the remarks later that day.

October 26, 2018: NBC Canceled Megyn Kelly Today

On October 26, 2018, NBC canceled Megyn Kelly Today following the blackface controversy.

2018: Criticized lawmakers for inaction on gun reform

In 2018, in response to the Parkland shooting, Megyn Kelly criticized lawmakers for their failure to pass meaningful gun reform, expressing frustration with the cycle of sorrow following mass shootings without real action.

June 2023: Shifted opinion on preferred pronouns

In June 2023, Megyn 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: Criticized Taylor Swift's endorsement

In October 2024, after Taylor Swift endorsed Kamala Harris, Megyn Kelly criticized Swift during an on stage interview with Tucker Carlson, accusing her of "alienating half her fan base".