New York, NY – May 9, 2025

Steve Doocy, a founding co-host of Fox News’ Fox & Friends since its debut in 1998, has not been absent but has transitioned from his full-time role in the New York studio to a part-time, coast-to-coast co-hosting position, effective May 2, 2025. The 68-year-old announced the change on the May 1 broadcast, citing a desire to move away from the grueling 3:30 a.m. wake-up calls and spend more time with his family, including his grandchildren, in Florida. Doocy is not retiring or leaving the show but will now host three days a week, primarily from Florida, with remote appearances from various U.S. locations, such as diners and pickleball courts, to bring viewers stories from America’s heartland.

Details of the Transition

Doocy, who joined Fox News in 1996 as its first weather correspondent, revealed that discussions with Fox News CEO Suzanne Scott led to this new role, which allows him to maintain his presence on Fox & Friends while reducing his workload. He will be based in Florida, potentially in Jupiter Inlet Colony, where he is linked to a property, following other Fox News personalities like Sean Hannity and Bret Baier to the Sunshine State. His co-hosts, Brian Kilmeade, Ainsley Earhardt, and Lawrence Jones, will continue anchoring from the New York studio, alongside meteorologist Janice Dean and reporter Carley Shimkus.

During the emotional May 1 announcement, Doocy teared up while bidding farewell to the New York crew, emphasizing his nearly 30-year tenure on the “curvy couch.” He expressed excitement about having breakfast with his family and covering underreported regions, jokingly calling himself the “coast-to-coast host” who may “never wear a necktie again.” Fox News celebrated his transition with a montage of his career highlights and a congratulatory video message from President Donald Trump, who praised Doocy as a “special guy” and noted their occasionally fair exchanges.

Why the Change?

Doocy cited the toll of his early morning routine, telling Mediaite, “The show is great, but the hours suck.” After nearly three decades, he sought a change to prioritize family time, particularly with his son, Peter Doocy, Fox News’ Senior White House Correspondent, and his grandchildren. The move also aligns with a broader trend of veteran broadcasters stepping back, as seen with MSNBC’s Andrea Mitchell and Fox’s Neil Cavuto. Doocy’s new role leverages his strong audience connection, with Fox News’ Megan Albano praising his “unmatched” rapport and “signature smile and wit.”

Public and Industry Reaction

The announcement sparked widespread reactions:

• X Sentiment: Fans and colleagues expressed support. @ChuckGrassley congratulated Doocy, noting his Iowa roots, while @JaniceDean celebrated his continued role and planned Florida visits. @LisPower1 humorously remarked that Doocy “deserves a break from Brian Kilmeade.”
• Media Coverage: Outlets like Newsweek, The Hollywood Reporter, and People detailed the shift, emphasizing Doocy’s longevity as the longest-running morning show co-host after NBC’s Al Roker. Some, like The Daily Beast, highlighted his occasional role as an on-air ombudsman, moderating extreme talking points.

Context and Implications

Doocy’s reduced role comes amid a challenging period for broadcast news, with ratings pressures and political influences, including Trump’s threats against outlets critical of his administration. However, Fox & Friends remains the top-rated cable morning show, and Doocy’s move is framed as a strategic evolution rather than a response to external pressures. His Florida base may also reflect practical considerations, as the state has no income tax, a factor noted in similar moves by Fox hosts.

Where Is Steve Doocy Now?

As of May 9, 2025, Doocy is actively co-hosting Fox & Friends three days a week, primarily from Florida, with plans to travel to locations across the Southeast, Midwest, and beyond. Viewers can expect to see him in remote segments, possibly from unexpected venues, continuing to deliver his trademark commentary. His last New York studio appearance was May 1, 2025, and he began his new role the following day.

For the latest updates, visit Fox News or follow @FoxNews and @SteveDoocy on X.