Megyn Kelly was a prominent figure at NBC News and Fox News, and her financial standing in 2019 reflected a decade of high-profile television roles and contract negotiations. This overview examines her estimated net worth during that year, drawing on publicly available compensation reports and industry analysis.
By 2019, Kelly had transitioned between major networks, and her earnings were shaped by past settlements, new book deals, and the evolving landscape of cable news salaries. The following sections break down the components of her reported financial position in 2019.
| Category | Detail | 2019 Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Estimated Net Worth | Reported range from media outlets | $15 million to $25 million | Based on salary history, book deals, and settlements |
| Primary Income Source in 2019 | Book tour and residual deals | Royalties and speaking fees | Post-departure from network regular programming |
| Major Contract Event | Settlement with NBC | Undisclosed, reported seven figures | Resolved in 2018, affecting 2019 earnings stability |
| Public Profile Driver | Political talk appearances and interviews | Increased media value after 2018 transition | Contributed to ancillary income streams in 2019 |
Salary History and Network Departure
Compensation at NBC and Fox News
During her peak years at Fox News and later at NBC, Megyn Kelly commanded substantial salaries, with reports indicating she earned between $7 million and $8 million annually at Fox News. Her move to NBC in 2017 included a reported $690 million contract over three years, although the actual financial impact was diluted by the show's underperformance. By 2019, her NBC contract had ended, and her regular network salary was no longer a factor in her net worth.
Book Deals and Speaking Engagements
Revenue Beyond Television
In 2019, one of the most significant contributors to Kelly’s net worth was her book "Set Aside Something Sacred," published in late 2018. The memoir benefited from extensive promotional tours, generating substantial royalties throughout 2019. Additionally, her high-profile commentary on politics and culture led to paid speaking engagements, further supplementing her income after her television roles concluded.
Legal Settlements and Financial Resolutions
Impact of the NBC Settlement
Although the settlement with NBC was largely concluded in 2018, its financial repercussions extended into 2019. Industry analysts noted that the agreement provided a level of financial security that influenced Kelly's net worth calculations for that year. This resolution allowed her to pursue alternative media projects and appearances without the burden of ongoing litigation, stabilizing her public and private finances.
Public Perception and Marketability
Endorsements and Media Relevance
Unlike some peers, Megyn Kelly did not secure major brand endorsement deals in 2019, as her polarizing public image limited commercial appeal. However, her continued presence as a political commentator and her ability to generate media coverage maintained a baseline marketability. This visibility translated into consistent, though more limited, income opportunities compared to her peak years at Fox News.
Key Takeaways on Megyn Kelly Net Worth 2019
- Her net worth in 2019 was estimated between $15 million and $25 million, reflecting post-network career transition.
- Book royalties and speaking engagements were the primary income drivers after her television salary ended.
- A prior NBC settlement contributed to financial stability, though ongoing litigation costs were largely settled before 2019.
- She lacked major endorsement deals due to a polarizing public profile, limiting commercial income streams.
- Media relevance remained steady through commentary and interviews, supporting ancillary revenue in a reduced television role.
FAQ
Reader questions
How did Megyn Kelly's book tour affect her net worth in 2019?
The publication and promotion of her memoir provided substantial royalty income and speaking fee revenue, which were key components of her financial portfolio in 2019.
What role did the NBC settlement play in her finances during that year?
The settlement, finalized in 2018, offered financial stability and reduced legal expenses, allowing her to focus on monetizing her public profile through appearances and publications in 2019.
Did she earn significantly from television roles in 2019?
No, with her NBC contract concluded and no regular television series in 2019, her earnings from network programming were minimal compared to earlier years.
Why weren't there major endorsement deals for her in 2019?
Her highly polarizing public image and controversial statements limited interest from major brands seeking broad consumer appeal for their campaigns.