Veteran Fox News anchor and business journalist, Neil Cavuto, concluded a remarkable 28-year career with the network on Thursday, December 19, 2024. Cavuto chose not to renew his contract, despite being offered an extension.
During his final broadcast, Cavuto expressed his love for reporting the news rather than sensationalizing it, and expressed his gratitude for the chance to “tell truth to power and fairness to all.”
In an official statement, Fox News praised Cavuto’s significant contributions, highlighting that his 28-year career had set standards in business news and journalism.
Cavuto, 66, started at Fox News in 1996 during its inception and played a key role in establishing “Your World.” His role expanded in 2018 when he launched “Cavuto Live” and he also hosted “Cavuto: Coast to Coast” on Fox Business Network.
Former Fox News anchor Geraldo Rivera lauded Cavuto as a “truth teller” during the “Time of Trump,” emphasizing his commitment to factual reporting, especially in financial coverage.
Cavuto’s commitment to fact-based reporting led to some notable on-air moments, such as when he decided to cut away from then-White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany during allegations about illegal voting. Colleague Tucker Carlson criticized this decision as media censorship.
Throughout his career, Cavuto dealt with serious health issues, including a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis in 1997 and open-heart surgery in 2016. He experienced a severe case of COVID-19 and subsequently became a vocal advocate against vaccine denialism. Despite these challenges, he upheld his broadcasting commitments, garnering respect from colleagues and viewers.
The departure of Cavuto comes at a time when cable news networks are undergoing significant changes, including budget adjustments affecting major personalities. This week, CNN bid goodbye to senior staffer Gloria Borger after 17 years and anchor Alisyn Camerota after a decade. Earlier, CNN severed ties with veteran journalist Chris Wallace, who reportedly earned $7 million a year.
President-elect Donald Trump has often criticized Cavuto’s coverage. In September 2023, Trump posted on Truth Social, a critique of Cavuto’s analysis of Trump’s debate performance. Following the news of Cavuto’s departure, Trump posted a celebratory tweet: “Should have happened a long time ago!”
The 4 p.m. Eastern time slot formerly held by Cavuto, which precedes Fox News’ popular program “The Five,” will be occupied by rotating hosts until a permanent replacement is found. In the meantime, “Coast to Coast” on Fox Business will be renamed “Fox Business Live,” featuring rotating anchors until new programming is introduced.
