Longtime Fox News anchor Neil Cavuto concluded his 28-year run with the network on Thursday, leaving behind a legacy marked by occasional clashes with President-elect Donald Trump, The Associated Press reports.
Cavuto, who hosted weekday afternoon shows on both Fox News Channel and Fox Business Network, announced his departure at the end of his final broadcast.
“I’m not leaving journalism. I’m just leaving here,” Cavuto stated, emphasizing his commitment to factual reporting over opinionated commentary.
He thanked Fox News for the opportunity but stressed his dedication to “telling truth to power and fairness to all.”
Cavuto’s departure comes as his contract expired. While offered an extension, he chose not to renew, according to a source within Fox News who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of contract negotiations. The source refuted any suggestion that Cavuto’s exit was related to his sometimes strained relationship with Donald Trump, who took to social media to express his satisfaction with the news by declaring Cavuto’s departure “GOOD NEWS FOR AMERICA,” claiming it “should have happened a long time ago.”
Despite these disagreements, Cavuto notably hadn’t interviewed Trump since 2017.
Cavuto’s colleagues paid tribute to his career on his final show. Reporter Aishah Hasnie lauded him as a “hero,” while billionaire investor Ken Fisher offered his continued friendship and support.
The 66-year-old Cavuto has persevered through various health challenges including multiple sclerosis, heart surgery, and long COVID. His resilience inspired fellow Fox personality Janice Dean, who publicly acknowledged Cavuto’s role in giving her hope after her own MS diagnosis.
Fox News released a statement praising Cavuto’s “illustrious career” and its impact on business news.