Neil Cavuto, a seasoned anchor and business journalist at Fox News, ended his 28-year journey with the network on December 19, 2024. He chose not to renew his contract even though an extension was offered.
During his last broadcast, Cavuto stated, “I got to do what I love here — report the news, not shout the news, not blast the news.” He expressed his appreciation for being allowed to “tell truth to power and fairness to all.”
In an official statement, Fox News praised Cavuto’s illustrious career, saying, “Neil Cavuto’s illustrious career has been a master class in journalism, and we’re extremely proud of his incredible 28-year run with FOX News Media. His programs have defined business news and set the standard for the entire industry.”
At the age of 66, Cavuto departed from the network he joined in 1996. He was instrumental in setting up the program “Your World” during the network’s inception. He further expanded his role by launching “Cavuto Live” in 2018 and hosting “Cavuto: Coast to Coast” on Fox Business Network.
Geraldo Rivera, a former Fox News anchor, lauded Cavuto as a “truth teller” during the “Time of Trump,” emphasizing his dedication to factual reporting. Cavuto set himself apart from opinion hosts by focusing on separating facts from fiction, especially in financial coverage.
His commitment to fact-based reporting led to some memorable on-air moments, including one where he interrupted then-White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany during assertions about illegal voting. This move was criticized by fellow anchor Tucker Carlson, who saw it as media censorship.
Throughout his career, Cavuto dealt with major health issues, yet continued to uphold his demanding work schedule. He was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1997 and underwent open-heart surgery in 2016. Following a severe case of COVID-19, he became an outspoken advocate against vaccine denialism. Despite these health challenges, Cavuto kept up his broadcasting schedule, earning admiration from colleagues and viewers.
Cavuto’s exit coincides with larger shifts in cable news networks, including budget changes impacting major personalities. This week, CNN saw the departure of senior staff member Gloria Borger after 17 years and anchor Alisyn Camerota after a decade of service. A few days prior, CNN severed ties with veteran journalist Chris Wallace, who was reportedly earning $7 million annually.
Cavuto’s coverage was frequently criticized by President-elect Donald Trump. In September 2023, Trump posted on Truth Social, “Neil Cavuto, Fox’s Lowest Rated Anchor, is one of the WORST on Television. I actually prefer the losers at CNN and MSDNC,” following Cavuto’s analysis of Trump’s debate performance. Upon hearing of Cavuto’s departure, Trump unsurprisingly expressed his sentiments on social media, posting a celebratory tweet: “Should have happened a long time ago!”
The 4 p.m. Eastern time slot previously occupied by the veteran anchor, which precedes the popular Fox News program “The Five,” will be hosted by rotating anchors until a permanent replacement is decided. Meanwhile, “Coast to Coast” on Fox Business will be transformed into “Fox Business Live,” featuring rotating anchors until a new program is introduced.
