Neil Cavuto Departs Fox News After 28 Years of Journalism

Neil Cavuto Departs Fox News After 28 Years of Journalism \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ Neil Cavuto, a business journalist and anchor, has officially departed Fox News after 28 years, marking the end of a remarkable tenure. Known for his impartial approach and measured reporting, Cavuto stood apart in a network often dominated by opinion-heavy content. His departure comes amid speculation about the future of television news, financial struggles in the industry, and ongoing tension with President-elect Donald Trump, who celebrated Cavuto’s exit on social media. Fox News honored his legacy, calling his career “a master class in journalism.”

Neil Cavuto’s Farewell: Quick Looks

• Legacy: A founding Fox News anchor, Cavuto worked for both Fox News and Fox Business since 1996.
• Style: Renowned for business journalism and balanced reporting, avoiding partisan commentary.
• Feuds: Cavuto often clashed with Trump, who celebrated his departure.
• Health Challenges: Despite MS, heart surgery, and long COVID, Cavuto remained on air.
• Future Plans: Cavuto plans to continue in journalism but has not disclosed specifics.

Deep Look

Neil Cavuto Bids Farewell After Nearly Three Decades

After 28 years of delivering business and political news on Fox News and Fox Business, Neil Cavuto said goodbye to viewers during his final broadcast on Thursday. Cavuto’s calm demeanor and focus on impartial reporting stood out in a media landscape increasingly driven by opinion and sensationalism.

“I got to do what I love here — report the news, not shout the news, not blast the news,” Cavuto said in his parting message. He emphasized his guiding principle: “Tell truth to power and fairness to all. That’s me.”

In a poignant moment, Cavuto assured viewers that his journalism career would continue elsewhere, saying, “I’m not leaving journalism. I’m just leaving here.”

A Founding Figure at Fox News

Cavuto was part of Fox News from its inception in 1996, hosting programs that covered business and economic news with a focus on facts and analysis. He also anchored shows on Fox Business Network, distinguishing himself as a trusted voice in business journalism.

Unlike many of his colleagues, Cavuto resisted the network’s drift toward partisan commentary, carving a niche as a journalist focused on calling “balls and strikes,” as described by one of his final guests.

Feuds with Trump

Cavuto’s straightforward style and willingness to challenge powerful figures frequently drew ire from President-elect Donald Trump.

He openly criticized Trump’s performance during a 2017 debate against Kamala Harris, saying Trump had “decisively lost.” Cavuto also poked fun at Trump’s tendency to credit himself for stock market gains while blaming Democrats for declines.

Trump, who rarely tolerates dissent, took to social media to celebrate Cavuto’s departure, writing in all caps that the exit was “GOOD NEWS FOR AMERICA” and claiming, “It should have happened a long time ago.”

Fox News Praises Cavuto’s Legacy

Despite the public tension between Cavuto and Trump, Fox News issued a glowing statement celebrating Cavuto’s 28-year career.

“Neil Cavuto’s illustrious career has been a master class in journalism, and we’re extremely proud of his incredible run with Fox News Media. His programs have defined business news and set the standard for the entire industry,” the network said.

According to a source familiar with the discussions, Cavuto’s departure was unrelated to Trump’s return to office. His contract was nearing its end, and while Fox offered an extension, Cavuto opted to leave, confirming the offer but not explaining his reasons for declining.

The State of Television News

Cavuto’s exit comes as the television news industry grapples with financial challenges. With viewership numbers fluctuating and advertising revenue under pressure, networks have reportedly asked some high-profile personalities to accept pay cuts. In some cases, like Cavuto’s, anchors chose to leave instead.

This trend reflects a broader reckoning within the industry, as traditional media outlets adapt to changing consumption habits and growing competition from digital platforms.

Tributes from Colleagues and Guests

Cavuto’s final show was filled with tributes from colleagues and guests. Billionaire investor Ken Fisher offered Cavuto his unwavering support, saying, “If you need any help, you will always have a friend in me.” Reporter Aishah Hasnie called Cavuto her “hero,” and Bob Cusack, editor in chief of The Hill, praised him for his objectivity.

“You call balls and strikes. You’re not a yes man,” Cusack said, encapsulating Cavuto’s approach to journalism.

Resilience Through Health Challenges

Cavuto’s career is all the more remarkable considering his battles with serious health issues. He has lived with multiple sclerosis for years, underwent open-heart surgery, and faced long-term effects of COVID-19. Despite these challenges, Cavuto maintained a steady presence on air, earning admiration from colleagues and viewers alike.

Fellow Fox personality Janice Dean, who also has MS, credited Cavuto with inspiring her to pursue her dreams despite the condition. “He gave me hope,” Dean wrote on social media.

Uncertain Future for Fox’s 4 p.m. Slot

Cavuto’s departure leaves a coveted slot in Fox News’s lineup unfilled. The 4 p.m. Eastern time slot, which leads into the network’s flagship show, The Five, is one of the most prominent in the network’s schedule. Fox has yet to announce who will take over the hour.

What’s Next for Neil Cavuto?

While Cavuto has been tight-lipped about his next steps, his assertion that he’s “not leaving journalism” suggests he may return to reporting in a new capacity. Whether he moves to another network, ventures into digital media, or explores a new avenue entirely, Cavuto’s reputation as a trusted journalist ensures he will remain a respected voice in the industry.

For now, his departure marks the end of a significant chapter in both his career and the history of Fox News, where he spent nearly three decades building a legacy of integrity, resilience, and journalistic excellence.

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