Megyn Kelly, a prominent American journalist, television host, and political commentator, has built a formidable career in media, earning her a significant net worth and widespread recognition. As of 2025, estimates place Megyn Kelly’s net worth at approximately $45 million, a figure amassed through her high-profile roles at major networks, lucrative contracts, book deals, podcast ventures, and other entrepreneurial endeavors. This article delves into the sources of her wealth, her career trajectory, and the factors contributing to her financial success.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born November 18, 1970, in Champaign, Illinois, Megyn Marie Kelly grew up in a middle-class family. She earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Syracuse University and later a law degree from Albany Law School, where she graduated with honors. Kelly briefly practiced law as a corporate attorney for nearly a decade, working at firms like Jones Day. However, her passion for storytelling and public discourse led her to pivot to journalism in her early 30s.
Kelly’s media career began modestly in 2003 when she joined WJLA-TV, an ABC affiliate in Washington, D.C., as a general assignment reporter. Her tenacity and on-screen charisma quickly caught the attention of Fox News, where she was hired in 2004. This began her ascent to become one of broadcast journalism’s most recognizable faces.
Rise to Fame at Fox News
At Fox News, Kelly’s career skyrocketed. She started as a correspondent and fill-in anchor before securing prominent roles. By 2010, she was hosting America Live, a daytime news program, and The Kelly File, a primetime show that became one of Fox News’ highest-rated programs. Her incisive interviewing style, willingness to challenge guests, and coverage of major political events, including the 2016 U.S. presidential election, cemented her status as a media powerhouse.
Kelly’s time at Fox News was financially rewarding. Reports suggest her annual salary at the network peaked at around $8 million. Her high-profile role during the 2015 Republican primary debate, where she famously clashed with then-candidate Donald Trump, further elevated her brand, making her a household name. However, her tenure at Fox was not without controversy, including her defense of specific on-air comments and her eventual departure amid tensions with the network.
Transition to NBC and High-Profile Contracts
In 2017, Kelly made a bold career move by leaving Fox News for NBC, where she was offered a lucrative three-year contract reportedly worth $69 million, or approximately $23 million per year. At NBC, she hosted Megyn Kelly Today, a morning talk show, and contributed to other network programming, including political coverage and specials. The substantial contract significantly boosted her net worth, despite her short-lived time at NBC.
Megyn Kelly Today struggled with ratings and faced backlash over controversial remarks, notably Kelly’s defense of blackface costumes in 2018. The ensuing public outcry led to her exit from NBC later that year. Kelly reportedly received the full contract payout despite the abrupt end, further padding her financial portfolio. This payout, estimated at $30 million or more, underscores how her high-stakes contracts have been a major driver of her wealth.
Post-NBC Ventures: Podcasting and Media Production
After leaving NBC, Kelly pivoted to independent media, leveraging her experience and fan base to launch The Megyn Kelly Show in 2020 under SiriusXM. The podcast covers politics, culture, and current events and has become a cornerstone of her post-network career. It consistently ranks among the top news podcasts, generating revenue through sponsorships, subscriptions, and advertising. While exact earnings from the podcast are undisclosed, successful podcasters in her tier can earn millions annually, contributing significantly to their net worth.
Kelly also founded MKB Media, her production company, to oversee her podcast and explore other media projects. This entrepreneurial move reflects her adaptability in a rapidly evolving media landscape, where digital platforms offer lucrative opportunities for established personalities. Additionally, she has maintained a presence on social media and YouTube, further monetizing her brand through content creation.
Book Deals and Other Income Streams
Another key contributor to Kelly’s net worth is her 2016 memoir, Settle for More. Published by HarperCollins, the book became a New York Times bestseller, offering insights into her career, personal life, and experiences at Fox News. The advance for the book was reportedly in the low seven figures, with additional royalties boosting her earnings. The book’s success increased her wealth and solidified her as a marketable public figure.
Beyond journalism and podcasting, Kelly has earned income through speaking engagements. High-profile figures like her can command fees ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 per event. While less frequent in recent years, these appearances have supplemented her income.
Personal Life and Assets
Kelly’s wealth is also reflected in her lifestyle and investments. She is married to Douglas Brunt, a former tech entrepreneur and novelist whose success has contributed to their combined financial stability. The couple owns multiple properties, including a $10 million home in Aspen, Colorado, and a residence in New York. These real estate investments and other financial assets form a significant portion of her net worth.
Factors Behind Her Financial Success
Several factors have driven Megyn Kelly’s impressive net worth. Even amidst controversies, her ability to secure high-value contracts at Fox News and NBC highlights her marketability as a media personality. Her pivot to podcasting and independent media demonstrates her business acumen, allowing her to capitalize on the growing demand for digital content. Her book deal, speaking engagements, and strategic investments have also diversified her income streams, ensuring long-term financial security.
Kelly’s polarizing public persona has also contributed. Her willingness to tackle controversial topics and engage with divisive figures has kept her relevant, drawing supporters and critics. This visibility has translated into sustained earning potential, as her audience remains engaged across platforms.
Conclusion
Megyn Kelly’s net worth of approximately $45 million in 2025 is a testament to her multifaceted career and resilience in facing challenges. From her early days as a lawyer to her rise as a television star, and now her success as a podcaster and media entrepreneur, Kelly has consistently adapted to changing industry dynamics. Her wealth stems from lucrative network contracts, a bestselling book, a top-tier podcast, and savvy investments, all underpinned by her ability to maintain a strong public presence. As she continues to evolve her career, Megyn Kelly remains a formidable figure in media, with her financial success reflecting her enduring influence.