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. Prior to her current role, Kelly held prominent positions at Fox News from 2004 to 2017, where she hosted "America Live" and "The Kelly File," and at NBC News from 2017 to 2018, anchoring "Megyn Kelly Today." In 2025 she launched MK Media, a podcast and video network. She was recognized as one of Time's 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 that happened in 2002.

2005: Trump's sexual comments in an audio recording

In October 2016, 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 and Jesus Comments

In December 2013, Kelly commented on the race of Santa Claus and Jesus on The Kelly File, sparking controversy and satire.

August 6, 2015: Republican Party Presidential Debate

On August 6, 2015, during a Republican Party presidential debate, Kelly questioned Donald Trump about his temperament and past insulting comments towards women, leading to a media and political reaction and criticism from Trump.

July 2016: Confirmed Harassment by Roger Ailes

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

2016: Clash with Trump during 2016 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 Megyn Kelly Today

On October 23, 2018, Kelly faced criticism for on-air remarks she made on Megyn Kelly Today regarding the appropriateness of blackface as part of Halloween costumes.

2023: Shift in Preferred Pronouns Opinion

In 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, and the effects on women's rights and children's safety.

2024: Criticism of Taylor Swift's Endorsement

In 2024, after Taylor Swift endorsed Kamala Harris before the 2024 presidential election, Megyn Kelly criticized the endorsement, accusing Swift of "alienating half her fan base."

August 2025: Remarks on the Gaza War

In August 2025, during a discussion with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene about the Gaza war, Megyn Kelly stated that while children in Gaza are "starving and hurting," she blames Hamas, accusing them of stealing aid and using the suffering of children for propaganda.

August 2025: Gun Reform Discussion on The Megyn Kelly Show

In August 2025, in response to the Minneapolis Catholic school shooting, Megyn Kelly argued on The Megyn Kelly Show that broad gun reform would be ineffective in the United States, advocating for targeted interventions for individuals with serious mental health concerns.

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