Neil Cavuto’s Decades-Long Fox News Journey Ends: Unpacking His Shocking Departure and Future Plans

The broadcast journalism landscape experienced a significant tremor in December 2024 with the announcement of Neil Cavuto’s departure from Fox News Media. For nearly three decades, Cavuto had been a ubiquitous and influential presence on the network, anchoring flagship programs and becoming a familiar face to millions of viewers. His exit, especially given his esteemed tenure, sent ripples of surprise and curiosity throughout the industry and among his dedicated audience. Viewers were left pondering the motives behind such a momentous decision, particularly after Cavuto hinted that his departure had been “some time” in the making. This article delves into the details of his announcement, the network’s reaction, his philosophical approach to journalism, and the lingering questions about his next career chapter.

Neil Cavuto, a name synonymous with business news and insightful commentary, had graced the airwaves of Fox News for an impressive 28 years, serving as a cornerstone of the network’s programming. His long and distinguished career culminated with his final broadcast on December 19, 2024, when he publicly revealed his decision to step away. As the host of highly-rated shows such as Your World with Neil Cavuto and Cavuto Live, his influence extended across daily business analysis and weekend news coverage, cementing his reputation as a versatile and respected anchor. The suddenness of the news, despite Cavuto’s own words, caught many off guard, prompting a wave of speculation and discussion across social media and news outlets.

Following Cavuto’s emotional on-air announcement, Fox News Media released a formal statement acknowledging his immense contributions. The network’s message was one of profound appreciation, highlighting his unwavering professionalism and deep commitment to the tenets of journalism throughout his nearly three-decade tenure.

“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,” the statement read, underscoring the gravity of his departure. “His programs have defined business, news and set the standard for the entire industry. We wish him a heartfelt farewell and all the best on his next chapter.” This warm tribute from the network reflected the high regard in which Cavuto was held, recognizing his role in shaping the network’s identity, particularly in its financial and economic reporting segments.

The news of Cavuto’s departure also elicited a less conventional reaction from former President Donald Trump. Taking to his Truth Social platform, Trump offered his own commentary, referring to Cavuto as the “lowest-rated anchor on Fox” and overtly celebrating his exit. This public statement highlighted the often-contentious relationship between Cavuto’s journalistic approach and certain political figures, particularly those he might have critiqued or questioned on air. Despite the varied reactions, the underlying sentiment remained clear: Neil Cavuto’s departure marked the end of an era at Fox News.

As the dust settled, the primary question on everyone’s mind turned to Neil’s future endeavors. What would a seasoned journalist of his caliber do after leaving such a prominent platform? His own words provided some clues, but the full picture of his next chapter remained tantalizingly vague. Below, we delve deeper into what Neil Cavuto shared about his exit and explore the possibilities that lie ahead for this veteran newsman.

WATCH: Fox’s Neil Cavuto signs off at Fox News after nearly 30 years on the air pic.twitter.com/K3x2xk9Cz2

— TV News Now (@TVNewsNow) December 19, 2024

Why Did Neil Cavuto Leave Fox News After Decades?

In his candid on-air statement, Neil Cavuto addressed the speculation head-on, though not with exhaustive detail. He began by declaring, “I’m leaving Fox. I’ve been planning this day for some time. This just seemed like a good time [to leave].” The phrase “some time” suggested a thoughtful, premeditated decision rather than an impulsive one, indicating a long internal process that led to his final choice.

With his characteristic dry wit, Cavuto lightened the mood by joking, “Now, some of you might be thinking, ‘Well, Neil, it’s about time!’” He then acknowledged the remarkable length of his tenure, stating, “After all, I’ve been doing this for nearly three decades here. You know, there are people working with me now who weren’t even born when I started at Fox — that’s how old I am. But I’m not leaving journalism, I’m just leaving here.” This crucial distinction highlighted his unwavering passion for reporting and analyzing the news, separating it from his affiliation with a specific network. It underscored that his professional identity was rooted in the craft of journalism itself, not merely in his role at Fox News.

While Cavuto explicitly chose not to elaborate on the precise reasons for his departure from Fox, he firmly reiterated his commitment to his journalistic career. His statement made it clear that he harbors no ill will towards his former employer, emphasizing, “I am forever grateful to [my] bosses” at the news network. He even revealed that Fox News had extended a “very generous opportunity” for him to remain, indicating that the decision was entirely his own and not a result of any external pressure or dissatisfaction from the network’s side. This suggests that his motivations might be deeply personal, perhaps related to a desire for a different professional environment, new challenges, or a shift in life priorities.

A significant factor that Cavuto frequently alluded to throughout his career, and again touched upon in his farewell, were his well-documented health challenges. Over the years, he has faced numerous serious health setbacks, causing him to miss “a day or two here and there battling everything from multiple sclerosis and COVID to countless infections, even open heart surgery.” These personal battles have undoubtedly shaped his perspective on life and work, instilling a deep appreciation for the opportunities he’s had.

Reflecting on these challenges, Neil articulated a profound sense of gratitude: “I might’ve been unlucky in health but very lucky for the support I got here and the things I got to do here because I got to do what I love to do — report the news.” He then articulated his journalistic philosophy, one that has resonated with many viewers, stating, “Not shout the news. Not blast the news. Not — well, call names, just call balls and strikes, following the news, hold truth to power and fairness to all. That’s it, that’s me.” This statement serves as a powerful testament to his unwavering dedication to objective reporting, a stance that sometimes placed him at odds with the more opinion-driven segments of cable news. It suggests a journalist deeply committed to the principles of fairness and factual presentation, regardless of external pressures or partisan divides. This philosophy could very well be a guiding star for whatever journalistic endeavors he pursues next.

Towards the culmination of his heartfelt address, Cavuto took a moment to acknowledge the indispensable contributions of the behind-the-scenes crew. He expressed deep appreciation for “the producers and writers and cameramen and directors across three shows all these years carrying me, and that can be a pretty heavy lift.” This recognition highlighted the collaborative nature of broadcast journalism and underscored his humility, acknowledging that his success was a collective effort.

What Is Neil Cavuto’s Net Worth in 2025?

Given his long and distinguished career in broadcast journalism, particularly at a major news network like Fox News, financial analysts and curious viewers often speculate about Neil Cavuto’s financial standing. According to Newsweek, a reputable news outlet, Neil Cavuto holds an estimated net worth of an impressive $25 million. This substantial figure reflects decades of work at the pinnacle of his profession, where high-profile anchors command significant salaries and benefit from various professional engagements.

The same report from Newsweek also shed light on his annual earnings at Fox News, indicating that his salary was an estimated $7 million. Such a generous compensation package is typical for seasoned journalists who anchor multiple shows and contribute significantly to a network’s brand and viewership. A net worth of $25 million is accumulated not just through salary, but often through strategic investments, potential book deals, speaking engagements, and other media ventures that a prominent public figure like Cavuto would naturally attract over nearly thirty years in the public eye. His financial success stands as another testament to his enduring popularity and influence within the media industry.

Where Is Neil Cavuto Going After Fox News?

One of the most pressing questions following Neil Cavuto’s departure is his next professional move. During his farewell speech, Cavuto remained tight-lipped about his future plans, leaving many viewers and industry observers to speculate. This mystery has fueled considerable discussion, with many wondering if he might follow a path similar to other high-profile journalists who have transitioned between major news networks.

A notable parallel frequently drawn is that of his former colleague, Chris Wallace. Wallace, another respected veteran anchor, famously left Fox News after 18 years to join CNN, seeking new opportunities and perhaps a different journalistic environment. However, Wallace’s tenure at CNN was relatively short-lived, lasting only two years before he moved on again. This trajectory highlights the complexities and challenges of transitioning between media giants, even for highly respected figures. Viewers are curious if Cavuto, known for his objective and balanced approach, might seek a platform that aligns even more closely with his “call balls and strikes” philosophy, potentially distancing himself from the increasingly polarized landscape of cable news.

While Neil did not disclose his next destination, his farewell address to Fox viewers was imbued with profound and reflective sentiments. He extended “good thoughts and good wishes” to his audience, emphasizing a message of unity and positivity. Nodding to his mother’s timeless advice to “count our blessings,” Cavuto articulated a personal and professional philosophy that transcended the often-divisive nature of news reporting. He added, “In the end, that should be our focus and that is mine tonight. Not all the stuff that divides us or the nastiness that it embitters us, but the far more important stuff that unites us and defines us and lifts us. I tried to appeal to those better angels, and I’m grateful you gave me that chance.”

This powerful closing statement suggests that Cavuto’s future endeavors, whatever they may be, will likely be guided by these deeply held values. Whether he chooses another major news network, embarks on an independent media project, or explores a different avenue within communication, it is probable that his next role will allow him to continue fostering dialogue, promoting understanding, and upholding the integrity of journalism as he perceives it. His commitment to appealing to “better angels” indicates a desire to contribute positively to public discourse, perhaps in a less combative or more contemplative format than traditional cable news often demands. The media world eagerly awaits his next move, hopeful that his distinctive voice will continue to inform and inspire.

Who Is Replacing Neil Cavuto on Fox News?

With Neil Cavuto’s departure, Fox News moved swiftly to fill the significant void left by the veteran anchor. Stepping into this prominent role on the network is Will Cain. Cain, already a familiar face on Fox News, particularly as a co-host of *Fox & Friends Weekend* and a prominent contributor across various programs, brings his own style and perspective to the network’s daytime lineup. His appointment signals a new chapter for the time slots previously occupied by Cavuto, promising a fresh dynamic while maintaining the network’s overall journalistic direction.