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 gained prominence at Fox News (2004-2017), hosting programs like 'America Live' and 'The Kelly File,' and later anchored 'Megyn Kelly Today' at NBC News (2017-2018). Time recognized her as one of the 100 most influential people in 2014 and 2025.

Sections (4)

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

2002: Josh Duggar's alleged molestation

In June 2015, Kelly interviewed Jim Bob Duggar 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 Audio Recording

In October, Megyn Kelly had a contentious discussion with Newt Gingrich on The Kelly File regarding Donald Trump's sexual comments in a 2005 audio recording, leading to widespread social media reaction. The event occurred in 2005.

December 2013: Kelly's Comments on Santa's Race

In December 2013, Megyn Kelly commented on a Slate article on The Kelly File, stating that Santa just is white, sparking controversy and satire from various media figures. The comments became a controversy.

August 6, 2015: Kelly Questions Trump at Republican Debate

On August 6, 2015, at a Republican Party presidential debate, Megyn Kelly asked Donald Trump about his temperament and past insulting remarks toward women, generating media and political reactions and criticism from Trump. This event led to a significant controversy.

July 2016: Kelly Confirms Ailes' Harassment

In July 2016, amid allegations of sexual harassment against Fox News CEO Roger Ailes, Megyn Kelly confirmed that she had also been subjected to his harassment. This was a significant event.

2016: Clash with Trump during the 2016 Campaign

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

October 23, 2018: Kelly's Blackface Comments on Megyn Kelly Today

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, sparking immediate controversy.

2018: Kelly Criticizes Lawmakers on Gun Reform

In 2018, following the Parkland shooting, Megyn Kelly criticized lawmakers for their failure to pass meaningful gun reform, citing the NRA's influence and the ineffectiveness of proposed changes.

January 11, 2019: NBC Terminates Kelly's Employment

On January 11, 2019, NBC terminated Megyn Kelly's employment following the blackface controversy, and she was paid the remaining $30 million from her contract.

June 2023: Kelly Explains Shift in Opinion on Preferred Pronouns

In June 2023, Megyn Kelly explained that she had shifted her opinion from supporting "preferred pronouns" to opposing them, citing concerns about their connection to gender-affirming care for minors and their impact on women's rights and children's safety.

October 2024: Kelly Criticizes Taylor Swift for Endorsing Kamala Harris

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