Megyn Kelly is one of the most recognizable and respected figures in the American news media. She is best known for her extremely popular prime time show The Kelly File on Fox News Channel. Her long and successful career has included law, television hosting, political commentary, and writing.
She is a respected figure for her abilities as a journalist. Her shows are defined by clear, unabashed commentary that is delivered with intelligence and confidence. This has brought a great many viewers to Fox during her programs and specials. However, it is unclear as to whether Kelly will continue to work for the network.
Fox News has experienced a great deal of change and controversy in recent times. Most notably, this included the removal of Roger Ailes as president and CEO. His resignation was the result of many claims of sexual misconduct, including the testimony of Kelly herself against Ailes. Kelly’s great success and her upcoming contract expiration have caused many to doubt whether she will continue appearing on Fox News in the future.
The Rumors
The main cause of the suspicions concerning Kelly’s future with the network is her contract expiration in the summer of 2017. This, combined with her massive popularity both on television and in other areas (her upcoming book tour is expected to be a resounding success) have led some to believe she will pursue her career in other directions. As well, Kelly has had a tumultuous relationship with some other Fox News personalities. Most notably, she was recently in a heated exchange with Sean Hannity over her comments concerning his interviews with Donald Trump.
While some would support the end of Kelly’s tenure as a commentator for Fox, there are many reasons to oppose this move. When the larger picture is considered, it seems preferable for both Fox and Kelly to maintain their relationship. Here are some of the main reasons why Kelly should continue her career with the network.
Of course, the most important consideration when it comes to Kelly’s career is her own welfare. When all things are considered, it is apparent that the resources of Fox News are an invaluable asset for the journalist.
The Platform
Most importantly, Fox News provides a nearly unparalleled platform for right-leaning commentary. The network is popular enough to pull in over $1 billion each year. Further, it reaches millions of viewers each night during prime time. More specifically, Kelly benefits from the 3.1 million viewers who tune into Bill O’Reilly’s The O’Reilly Factor, the program that leads into Kelly’s. These types of numbers are exceedingly difficult to come by anywhere else, especially with networks that are less receptive to conservative commentary.
Further, the network seems keen on having Kelly as one of the main faces of Fox News. Especially with the shake-up following the departure of Ailes, Kelly may be poised to receive even greater focus. This is enhanced by the fact that her recent feud with Donald Trump has given her greater popularity than ever before.
Money
Although a platform that guarantees great viewership is vital to her success, the ultimate goal is of course to secure a comfortable financial future. Kelly is already handsomely rewarded for her work, with a salary topping $10 million. Further, sources have stated that in recent negotiations leading up to her contract renewal, she has asked for a salary around the $20 million mark.
Very few other networks can afford to pay Kelly these amounts. Even a personality like Katie Couric did not pull in these sums at the height of her popularity. However, the Murdoch family has a great relationship with Kelly. They were even instrumental in securing a $6 million advance for Kelly’s upcoming book. This type of support from management is one reason why the journalist will be far better compensated with Fox than any other network.
Not only should Kelly stay with Fox News for her own benefit, the network should fight hard to keep her on board. In a time where the network has experienced a shocking change in its executives, it is important to hold on to its successful personalities.
Viewers
For the network, losing Kelly would mean losing a great deal of money and viewership. The Kelly File is one of prime time news’ highest rated programs. In fact, Kelly’s show routinely garners over a million more viewers than MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow.
Further, losing Kelly might mean losing the confidence of Fox viewers. With the unstable state of the network, it is important to keep a stable and recognizable face in the spotlight. Allowing Kelly to pursue her career elsewhere might indicate that the network is losing steam.
Demographics
Not only is Kelly vital to the network in terms of sheer numbers of viewers, she also brings in audiences that might otherwise stay away from Fox. Her commentary tends to be more balanced than other individuals on the network, which makes her attractive to viewers who enjoy impartial analysis and interviews.
Further, she is notable for her strength and success in political commentary, a field dominated by men. Showing women that they are able to be industry leaders in historically male areas is a great way to garner female viewership.
Why They Are Stronger Together
Ultimately, Kelly and Fox News should remain a pair because they build off each others’ strengths and address each others’ needs. Kelly is an experienced, capable, and charismatic personality who needs a platform. Fox has a massive platform. Fox is an established leader in conservative news and commentary who needs popular program hosts. Kelly is wildly popular on screen.
Further, simplicity is always preferable when it comes to finding the right television program. For individuals who want to stay away from the liberal-leaning news media, it can be difficult to find competent commentators outside of Fox. Having Kelly and Fox on the same channel will make finding the perfect program simple and easy for viewers.
As well, leaving the network would be a break in the association that already exists in the public consciousness. Megyn Kelly and Fox News are closely intertwined, meaning that when Kelly is mentioned, a person will know exactly where to find her.
Conclusion
Although testing the waters is always an individual’s right, it would be ideal for Kelly to remain with Fox News in her current capacity. There are many reasons for this. Perhaps most importantly is the fact that the network’s executives are willing to pay Kelly enormous sums to maintain her position, while other networks likely will not be. As well, she brings in a large number of viewers to the network.
Ending their relationship would likely result in less viewers, less money, and less stability for both Kelly and Fox News. There are far more upsides than downsides to maintaining their highly profitable pairing.
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