Bill Melugin, Fox News’ relentless national correspondent, is a household name for his fearless reporting on immigration, crime, and political scandals. From the chaotic U.S.-Mexico border to the streets of Boston with ICE agents, Melugin’s investigative work has earned him accolades and a reputation as a journalist who doesn’t shy away from tough stories. But beneath the polished exterior of this Emmy-winning reporter lies a past that few know about—a journey that began not in a newsroom, but on the glamorous runways of Milan. How did a former fashion model become one of America’s most trusted voices in journalism? The story of Melugin’s transformation is as captivating as the scandals he uncovers.

From Orange County to International Runways

Born on February 26, 1985, in Orange County, California, William “Bill” Melugin grew up in a world far removed from the gritty realities he now covers. As a young man, Melugin’s striking looks and 5-foot-7-inch frame caught the attention of modeling scouts. By his early 20s, he was signed with a top agency and found himself walking runways in Milan, the fashion capital of the world.

Milan’s fashion scene in the mid-2000s was a whirlwind of high stakes and higher glamour. Melugin strutted for renowned designers, his chiseled features and confident stride making him a standout in an industry known for its intensity. Photos from this era, some still circulating on fan sites, show a young Melugin in tailored suits and avant-garde outfits, a far cry from the tactical vests he now wears while reporting from border hotspots. Yet, even then, colleagues noted his curiosity and work ethic. “He wasn’t just a pretty face,” a former modeling agent recalled in a 2023 interview. “Bill asked questions, observed everything, and had this drive to understand the world around him.”

Modeling, however, was never Melugin’s endgame. The transient nature of the industry, coupled with its focus on appearance over substance, left him unfulfilled. “It was a great experience, but I wanted to do something that mattered,” Melugin later said in a rare comment about his past. By his mid-20s, he left the runways behind, returning to California to pursue a new path—one that would eventually lead him to journalism.

A Pivot to Journalism: The Making of a Reporter

Melugin’s transition from fashion to news wasn’t instantaneous. After earning a degree in broadcast journalism from Arizona State University, he started at the bottom of the media ladder. His first gig was at KFOX-TV in El Paso, Texas, where he worked as a fill-in anchor and reporter. The border city, with its complex dynamics of immigration and crime, offered Melugin a front-row seat to the issues that would later define his career.

From El Paso, Melugin moved to WJZY-TV in Charlotte, North Carolina, honing his skills as an investigative reporter. But it was his return to California, joining KTTV-TV (FOX 11) in Los Angeles, that marked a turning point. At FOX 11, Melugin’s breaking news coverage—often centered on crime and corruption—caught the attention of Fox News Channel (FNC) producers. His reports appeared on national programs like Tucker Carlson Tonight and The Ingraham Angle, showcasing his ability to deliver hard-hitting stories with clarity and grit.

In May 2021, Melugin joined FNC as a Los Angeles-based national correspondent, a role that thrust him into the spotlight. His reporting from the U.S.-Mexico border, particularly in Eagle Pass, Texas, became must-watch television. Melugin’s vivid dispatches—often showing migrants crossing the Rio Grande or Border Patrol agents overwhelmed—brought the immigration crisis into American living rooms. “I’m here to show what’s happening, not tell you what to think,” he told Dana Perino in a 2023 Fox News interview.

Exposing Scandals: Melugin’s Rise to Prominence

Melugin’s journalism career is defined by his knack for uncovering stories that others overlook. His investigative work has exposed systemic failures, government missteps, and criminal activities, earning him four Emmy Awards, three Edward R. Murrow Awards, and four RTNA Golden Mike Awards.

One of Melugin’s most impactful stories came in April 2025, when he reported on the release of an illegal immigrant in California who had served just three years for a deadly DUI crash that killed two 19-year-olds. The outcry following his report sparked debates about immigration enforcement and sentencing leniency. Similarly, in February 2025, Melugin exposed a false NBC Denver report claiming an arrested migrant had a “clean” record, revealing the individual’s history of multiple DUIs. His ability to dig deeper, often using exclusive sources like ICE agents, has made him a go-to voice on immigration-related scandals.

Melugin’s coverage isn’t limited to the border. In January 2025, he embedded with ICE officers in Boston, witnessing the arrest of MS-13 gang members and murder suspects during mass deportation efforts. His firsthand accounts, shared on Fox News and X, provided a rare glimpse into the challenges faced by immigration enforcement. He also contributed to reports on California’s deadly wildfires and a tragic Washington air crash, demonstrating his versatility as a journalist.

His willingness to challenge official narratives has drawn both praise and criticism. In June 2024, Melugin dismissed President Biden’s border executive order as “window dressing,” arguing it failed to address the scale of the crisis. Critics, particularly in left-leaning media, have accused him of fearmongering, pointing to a 2024 report where he linked a solar eclipse to potential migrant crossings. Melugin, however, remains unapologetic. “I don’t give a damn, so we’ll keep reporting,” he said on The Guy Benson Show in May 2025, responding to complaints about his immigration coverage.

The Personal Side: Who Is Bill Melugin?

Despite his public profile, Melugin keeps his personal life private. As of January 2025, he is unmarried and has never been married, though tabloids occasionally speculate about his dating life. Standing at 5 feet 7 inches and weighing approximately 154 pounds, Melugin maintains the polished appearance of his modeling days, but his focus is firmly on his work. His estimated net worth of $3 million reflects his successful career, with an annual salary of around $75,000 as a Fox News correspondent.

Melugin’s past as a model occasionally resurfaces, often to the delight of fans. Social media posts on X have shared grainy runway photos, with users marveling at his transformation. “From Milan catwalks to border chaos—Bill Melugin’s life is a movie,” one user wrote in 2024. Yet, Melugin rarely discusses this chapter, preferring to let his reporting speak for itself.

A Career Built on Grit and Curiosity

What sets Melugin apart is his relentless curiosity, a trait that bridges his modeling and journalism careers. Whether navigating the high-pressure world of fashion or the dangerous terrain of border reporting, he approaches challenges with the same intensity. His ability to connect with sources—from Border Patrol agents to grieving families—stems from his empathy and authenticity, qualities that shine through in his storytelling.

Melugin’s journey also reflects his adaptability. Leaving behind a lucrative modeling career to start over in local news required courage, as did his decision to tackle controversial issues like immigration. His critics may question his framing, but few dispute his commitment to uncovering truth. “What keeps me up at night is knowing there are stories out there that need to be told,” he told Perino in 2023.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Melugin?

At 40 years old, Melugin shows no signs of slowing down. His recent reporting on the Trump administration’s immigration policies, including a voluntary self-deportation plan offering free airfare and $1,000 stipends, suggests he’ll remain at the forefront of national debates. As immigration enforcement ramps up, Melugin’s exclusive access to ICE operations positions him to break more stories that could shape public opinion.

Beyond journalism, some speculate Melugin could explore other ventures, perhaps writing a book about his experiences or transitioning to a media consultancy role. For now, though, he remains committed to Fox News, where his reports continue to spark conversation and controversy.

A Journey Like No Other

Bill Melugin’s path from Milan’s runways to the frontlines of American journalism is a testament to his drive and versatility. Once a model showcasing designer clothes, he now exposes scandals that challenge power structures and ignite debate. His story is one of reinvention, fueled by a desire to make a difference. From Eagle Pass to Boston, Melugin’s reporting has left an indelible mark, proving that truth, when pursued with tenacity, can be more powerful than any spotlight.