When it comes to the world of broadcast journalism, few names carry as much weight as Megyn Kelly. Known for her sharp intellect, fearless interviewing style, and commanding on-screen presence, she has built one of the most talked-about careers in American media. But what fascinates many people beyond her career achievements is the topic of Megyn Kelly’s salary — how much she’s earned through the years, and what her financial journey reveals about the media industry itself.
Rising Through the Ranks: From Attorney to Television Star
Before she became a household name, Megyn Kelly worked as a corporate lawyer. Her shift from law to journalism in the early 2000s set the foundation for a career that would eventually command millions. Starting at ABC affiliate WJLA-TV, she soon caught the attention of Fox News, where her talent for handling high-pressure interviews and political debates stood out.
It was during her tenure at Fox News that her salary began to soar. By the mid-2010s, Kelly was among the network’s most prominent anchors, reportedly earning between $6 million and $9 million per year. This period cemented her as not only a media figure but also a powerful brand capable of drawing massive viewership and high advertising value.
The NBC Chapter: A Record-Breaking Deal
The real turning point in discussions about Megyn Kelly’s salary came when she left Fox News in 2017 to join NBC. The move made headlines across the country, with reports revealing that she had signed a multi-year deal worth around $69 million, averaging $20–23 million annually.
This staggering figure placed her among the highest-paid journalists in the world, rivaling the likes of Anderson Cooper and Matt Lauer at the time. NBC aimed to leverage her popularity to strengthen their morning show lineup with Megyn Kelly Today. Unfortunately, the program faced challenges, including controversies and lower-than-expected ratings, leading to its cancellation after just one year.
Despite the show’s end, Kelly reportedly received the remainder of her contract payout — a testament to her strong negotiating power and market value.
Independent Ventures: Beyond Traditional Media
After departing NBC in 2019, Megyn Kelly did not fade from the spotlight. Instead, she took a modern approach, launching her own podcast, The Megyn Kelly Show, and building a thriving independent media brand.
While her exact current salary isn’t public, her earnings now come from multiple streams — podcast sponsorships, YouTube revenue, and speaking engagements. Industry analysts estimate that she continues to earn several million dollars annually, proving that her influence extends far beyond network television.
Her move into independent media reflects a broader trend where journalists are taking control of their content, audiences, and income. Kelly’s shift illustrates how the digital landscape has redefined what “salary” means for top broadcasters — it’s no longer just a paycheck from a network, but a combination of brand partnerships, direct audience support, and creative ownership.
The Value of Megyn Kelly’s Brand
Megyn Kelly’s salary isn’t just about numbers — it’s a reflection of her ability to adapt, lead, and remain relevant in an evolving media ecosystem. Her career trajectory shows the power of reinvention and personal branding.
At Fox News, she earned her reputation through political coverage. At NBC, she tested her versatility. Now, as an independent media entrepreneur, she controls her platform and narrative. That control has translated into financial freedom — and influence that doesn’t rely on corporate media structures.
Her audience may not always agree with her, but they listen, and that’s the real source of her ongoing success. In an industry where attention is currency, Megyn Kelly continues to prove that credibility and controversy, when balanced well, can be extremely profitable.
Conclusion: Megyn Kelly’s Salary and Legacy
Megyn Kelly’s salary story is more than a tale of wealth — it’s an insight into how media, money, and influence intertwine. From a $6 million Fox News anchor to a $20 million NBC deal and now a multi-million-dollar independent career, she embodies the evolution of journalism in the digital age.
Her journey underscores one timeless truth: in media, talent and tenacity often lead to power — and power, when leveraged wisely, translates into extraordinary earning potential.