A Powerhouse Anchor Faces Down Rumors

Harris Faulkner, the Emmy-winning Fox News anchor known for her commanding presence on The Faulkner Focus and Outnumbered, has been at the center of swirling speculation about her future with the network. In recent months, fans and media alike have buzzed with questions about whether the 59-year-old journalist, one of Fox News’ most recognizable faces, might be stepping away from her high-profile roles. From cryptic absences to personal projects that hint at new horizons, the rumors have fueled endless chatter on social media. Yet, amidst this storm, Faulkner has not only reaffirmed her commitment to Fox but also delivered a stunning ratings victory, with The Faulkner Focus outpacing ABC’s The View in January 2025. The Daily Mail dives into the heart of these rumors, Faulkner’s remarkable career, her recent health scare, and her inspiring personal endeavors that are captivating audiences worldwide.

As we sit in August 2025, Faulkner’s story is one of resilience, grace, and an unyielding dedication to journalism. With six Emmy Awards, a loyal fanbase, and a reputation for delivering news with clarity and conviction, she has weathered professional challenges and personal trials with the same poise that defines her on-air presence. But what sparked the speculation about her departure? And how has she responded to keep her star shining brighter than ever? From her triumphant ratings to a deeply personal documentary project, here’s everything you need to know about Harris Faulkner’s journey through the spotlight.

The Rumor Mill: Is Harris Faulkner Leaving Fox News?

The whispers about Harris Faulkner potentially leaving Fox News began in early 2025, fueled by a series of absences from The Faulkner Focus and Outnumbered. Fans noticed her missing from the anchor desk, with guest hosts like Emily Compagno stepping in, prompting posts on X like, “Where’s Harris? Is she done with Fox?” The speculation intensified when Faulkner, who joined Fox in 2005, was absent during key broadcasts, leading some to wonder if she was eyeing a career shift. Media outlets like CEOColumn fanned the flames, reporting on “cryptic comments” and her increasing focus on outside projects, suggesting a possible exit.

A significant trigger for these rumors was Faulkner’s health-related absence in March 2023, when she underwent a medical procedure she chose not to disclose publicly. She announced her return on Instagram, posting a vibrant video in a red jumpsuit, captioned, “Ready to take the week, are you?” Fans flooded the comments with relief, writing, “Welcome back, Harris! You’re a queen!” and “Missed you so much!” The procedure, described as successful, was a reminder of her vulnerability, but her swift return quashed some concerns. Still, the temporary absence left a void, with viewers speculating about her long-term plans.

Adding fuel to the fire, Faulkner’s growing portfolio of personal projects—like her Fox Nation docuseries Surviving a Serial Killer and Footsteps of My Father—suggested she might be diversifying her career. Social media posts on X pointed to her “increasing media appearances outside Fox” as a sign of a potential departure. Yet, Faulkner has addressed these rumors head-on, telling Fox & Friends in April 2025, “I’m not going anywhere. I love what I do here, and I’m grateful for our viewers.” Her statement, coupled with her continued presence on air, has put much of the speculation to rest, though some fans remain curious about her future.

A Career of Trailblazing Excellence

Harris Faulkner’s journey to Fox News stardom is a testament to her talent and tenacity. Born on October 13, 1965, in Atlanta, Georgia, to a military family, Faulkner grew up with a strong sense of discipline and curiosity. Her father, a retired U.S. Army lieutenant colonel, instilled values of perseverance that shaped her career. After earning a degree in mass communications from the University of California, Santa Barbara, she began as a reporter at WNCT-TV in North Carolina, honing her skills in local news before joining Fox News in 2005.

At Fox, Faulkner quickly rose through the ranks, anchoring Fox Report Weekend and later launching The Faulkner Focus in 2021. Her role as co-host of Outnumbered, alongside Kayleigh McEnany and Emily Compagno, showcased her ability to navigate complex political discussions with wit and authority. With six Emmy Awards to her name, Faulkner has become a trailblazer, particularly as one of the few Black female anchors to lead a network news show. Her poised delivery and sharp analysis have earned her a loyal following, with viewers praising her for “telling it like it is” and “bringing respect to every story.”

Her ratings triumph in January 2025 solidified her dominance. The Faulkner Focus averaged 2.552 million viewers, narrowly beating The View’s 2.508 million, a historic win for a cable news show against a broadcast giant. “I could not grab this big win without my wonderful team,” Faulkner said in a statement, adding, “We’re proud viewers choose us at 11 a.m.” The victory, reported by Forbes and TV Insider, underscores her enduring appeal, especially as Fox News marked its highest-rated January ever, with 2.8 million prime-time viewers.

The Health Scare: A Wake-Up Call

Faulkner’s March 2023 absence due to a medical procedure added a personal layer to the rumors. She shared the news via Instagram, writing, “Back tomorrow (from a medical procedure that went well, thank the Lord),” with praying hands and heart emojis. The lack of specifics sparked concern, but her vibrant return video reassured fans. “She looked like a million bucks,” a commenter noted, while another wrote, “Class, intelligence, beauty—Harris is unstoppable!” The procedure, though undisclosed, was a stark reminder of life’s fragility, especially for a woman balancing a demanding career and family life.

Faulkner, married to journalist Tony Berlin since 2003, is a devoted mother to their two daughters, Bella and Danika. Her faith, a cornerstone of her life, has guided her through challenges. “I’m a devout Christian, and I know God’s got me,” she told The Western Journal in 2023. This resilience echoes in her on-air persona, where she tackles tough topics with grace, even when facing criticism, like her flustered moment on The Faulkner Focus in July 2025, when a guest cited Fox’s own polling to challenge her on inflation numbers.

Personal Projects: A Passion Beyond the Desk

Beyond her anchor duties, Faulkner’s creative endeavors have added depth to her public image. In May 2024, she celebrated 10 years on Outnumbered and released two Fox Nation docuseries that showcase her storytelling prowess. Surviving a Serial Killer chronicles the harrowing escape of 17-year-old Lisa McVey from a serial killer, with Faulkner’s empathetic narration highlighting her knack for true crime. “When a survivor talks, I listen,” she told People magazine. “Lisa’s story is a miracle of resilience.”

Even more personal is Footsteps of My Father, a limited series tracing Faulkner’s journey to Vietnam to explore her late father’s service as a combat pilot during the war. “Trekking my dad’s combat trail was almost too much for my heart,” she shared. Carrying his burial flag, Faulkner uncovered stories of his bravery and the war’s toll, weaving in recordings of his voice from interviews conducted by her husband. “My dad died Christmas Day 2020, but his patriotism lives on,” she said. The series, described as her “most personal” project, has resonated with viewers, earning praise for its raw emotion and historical insight.

These projects have fueled speculation that Faulkner might shift focus from daily news to long-form storytelling or writing, like her 2022 book Faith Still Moves Mountains. However, she’s dismissed such notions, telling Fox News in June 2025, “I’m committed to delivering the news every day. These projects are an extension of my passion, not a replacement.”

The Ratings Victory and Industry Impact

The January 2025 ratings win over The View was a career highlight, proving Faulkner’s staying power. The Faulkner Focus’s victory, reported by AdWeek, was notable given The View’s broadcast reach versus Fox’s cable audience. “It’s a testament to our hard work and passion,” Faulkner said, crediting her team. The win came amid Fox News’ record-breaking January, with shows like The Five and Jesse Watters Primetime also posting all-time highs. Faulkner’s jab at The View—calling it “vitriolic” in a MSN interview—stirred debate, with fans on X cheering her boldness: “Harris doesn’t mince words! She’s a legend.”

Her success has broader implications. As a Black woman in a predominantly white industry, Faulkner’s prominence is a milestone. “She’s breaking barriers while staying true to herself,” a colleague told The Hill. Her ability to handle tough segments—like a July 2025 debate where she was challenged on Trump’s poll numbers—shows her resilience, even if she appeared flustered. “Harris keeps it real, even under pressure,” a fan tweeted.

Family and Faith: The Heart of Faulkner’s Strength

Off-camera, Faulkner’s life revolves around her family. She and Berlin, a former WCCO-TV reporter, balance parenting with demanding careers. Their daughters, raised with the same discipline Faulkner learned from her military upbringing, are her pride. “They’re my example of what a unified society can do,” she told People. Her faith, rooted in Christianity, guides her, with regular church attendance and a fitness routine of cardio, strength training, and yoga keeping her grounded.

The Vietnam docuseries was a tribute to her father, whose death in 2020 left a void. “I carried his flag to thank him for his service,” she said. This personal connection has endeared her to viewers, who see her as more than an anchor but a woman of depth and heart.

Fan Support and Future Horizons

The rumors of her departure have only strengthened her fanbase. “Harris isn’t going anywhere—she’s Fox’s backbone!” one X user posted. Her Instagram, with over 500,000 followers, is flooded with support, especially after her health update. The ratings win and docuseries have silenced doubters, proving her versatility. While she’s committed to Fox, whispers of a memoir or expanded producing role persist, with fans eager for more of her storytelling.

A Star Who Shines Through Adversity

Harris Faulkner’s journey through 2025—rumors, health scares, ratings triumphs, and personal projects—shows a woman of unbreakable spirit. From Atlanta to Fox News’ top spot, she’s defied odds, proving that resilience and faith can conquer any storm. As she continues to anchor, create, and inspire, Faulkner remains a beacon for viewers, her star brighter than ever in a world that needs her voice.