What Happened To Fox And Friends' First Girl? Uncovering Gretchen Carlson's Story

Jaiden Okuneva 30 Jul 2025

Many folks often wonder what became of the well-known faces from television, particularly those who seemed to just disappear from our screens. It's a common curiosity, isn't it, to think about where someone went after being such a regular part of your morning routine? Well, a lot of people have been asking, "What happened to Fox and Friends' first girl?" and that's a story worth looking into, you know, because it involves a lot more than just a change of jobs.

The person many are thinking about when they ask that question is Gretchen Carlson. She was, quite literally, one of the very first co-hosts to help launch the popular morning show, Fox & Friends, way back in 1998. For years, she was a familiar face, offering her thoughts and sharing stories with millions of viewers every day. So, it's pretty natural, I mean, for people to wonder about her path after leaving such a prominent spot.

Her story, as it turns out, is a compelling one, reaching far beyond the television studio and into some really significant conversations about workplace fairness. We're going to take a closer look at her time on the show, what led to her departure, and what she's been doing since. It's, quite frankly, a tale that has had a big impact on many, many people, you know, across different industries.

Gretchen Carlson: A Brief Biography
- Personal Details and Career Highlights
The Early Days at Fox & Friends
A Shift in Roles and Growing Concerns
The Lawsuit That Shook a Media Giant
The Aftermath and a New Purpose
Gretchen Carlson Today: Advocacy and Impact
Frequently Asked Questions About Gretchen Carlson
What Her Story Means for All of Us

Gretchen Carlson: A Brief Biography

Gretchen Carlson is someone whose journey has been quite remarkable, really, from being a talented musician to a national television personality and, later, a vocal advocate. Born in Anoka, Minnesota, she showed a real gift for music from a very young age, especially with the violin. She even performed at Carnegie Hall, which is, you know, a pretty big deal for anyone, let alone someone so young. Her path then led her to Stanford University, where she studied organizational behavior, a field that, as it turns out, would become very relevant to her later experiences. She also competed in the Miss America pageant, winning the title in 1989, which, as a matter of fact, opened up a lot of doors for her.

Personal Details and Career Highlights

Full Name	Gretchen Elizabeth Carlson
Born	June 21, 1966 (currently 57 years old as of early 2024)
Birthplace	Anoka, Minnesota, U.S.
Education	Stanford University (B.A.), Juilliard School (attended)
Spouse	Casey Close (married 1997)
Children	2
Key Career Roles	Miss America 1989, Co-host of Fox & Friends (1998-2013), Host of The Real Story with Gretchen Carlson (2013-2016), Author, Advocate for women's rights and workplace fairness.

The Early Days at Fox & Friends

After her time as Miss America and working in local news, Gretchen Carlson joined Fox News Channel in 1998. She became one of the original co-hosts of "Fox & Friends," a show that was, quite frankly, just getting started then. She sat alongside Steve Doocy and Brian Kilmeade, creating a morning program that, you know, quickly became a staple for many viewers across the country. Her presence on the show was, in a way, a big part of its early success, as she brought a certain charm and a thoughtful perspective to the morning discussions. It was a very different kind of morning show at the time, actually, compared to others, offering a unique blend of news, interviews, and casual conversation.

For fifteen years, from 1998 to 2013, she was a constant presence on that couch. She covered major news events, interviewed countless guests, and helped shape the show's identity. Her role was, in some respects, about more than just reading headlines; it was about building a connection with the audience, making them feel like they were part of the conversation. This period, it's almost, cemented her as a familiar and trusted voice in morning television, and many people, you know, really looked forward to seeing her each day.

During these years, the show grew significantly in popularity, becoming a dominant force in cable news morning programming. Gretchen Carlson, with her background and style, played a pretty important part in that growth. She was, you could say, a key ingredient in the recipe that made "Fox & Friends" so widely watched. Her contributions helped establish the show's unique tone and appeal, and, in fact, it became a go-to for a lot of folks wanting to start their day with news and opinion.

A Shift in Roles and Growing Concerns

In 2013, after more than a decade on "Fox & Friends," Gretchen Carlson moved to a different time slot, taking on her own show, "The Real Story with Gretchen Carlson." This move was, in a way, seen as a step up, giving her a solo platform to host a one-hour news program. It allowed her, you know, to delve deeper into stories and offer more in-depth analysis. This new role seemed, on the surface, like a natural progression for her career at the network, providing her with more editorial control and a chance to truly lead a program.

However, behind the scenes, things were, apparently, not as straightforward as they appeared. While her new show continued for a few years, there were, in fact, growing concerns that would eventually come to light. These concerns, as we later learned, revolved around the work environment and the treatment she experienced. It's interesting, because from the outside, everything might have looked just fine, but what was happening internally was, in some respects, quite troubling.

The situation, it seems, reached a point where it became untenable for her. She was, you know, trying to make sense of what was happening and figure out the best way forward. Her contract with Fox News was set to expire in June 2016, and what happened next would send shockwaves through the media world. This period marked a critical turning point, leading to a very public and, frankly, very significant challenge to the status quo.

The Lawsuit That Shook a Media Giant

The question of "What happened to Fox and Friends' first girl?" really comes into sharp focus with the lawsuit she filed. On July 6, 2016, Gretchen Carlson took a very brave step. She filed a lawsuit against Roger Ailes, who was, at the time, the chairman and CEO of Fox News. Her claim was for sexual harassment and retaliation, alleging that her career had been hindered because she refused Ailes' advances and spoke up about unfair treatment. This was, basically, a huge moment, as it was one of the first high-profile cases of its kind against such a powerful figure in media.

Her lawsuit detailed a pattern of alleged inappropriate behavior and comments from Ailes, claiming he had made unwanted sexual advances and then retaliated against her when she rejected them. She also stated that she was fired from "The Real Story" just days after complaining about the alleged harassment. This was, you know, a pretty serious accusation, and it brought a lot of attention to the inner workings of the network. The claims were, in fact, very specific, painting a picture of a difficult work environment.

The legal action created an immediate uproar, drawing significant media coverage and public discussion. Other women, too it's almost, began to come forward with similar stories about Ailes, which really amplified the impact of Carlson's initial complaint. This collective action started a chain reaction, leading to an internal investigation at 21st Century Fox, the parent company. It was a situation that, frankly, had massive implications, not just for Fox News, but for how workplace misconduct was viewed across the entire industry. The pressure mounted very quickly, and the situation became, you know, a really big deal.

Just a few weeks after Carlson filed her lawsuit, Roger Ailes resigned from Fox News. This was, in some respects, a truly stunning development, given his long-standing power and influence. The company later announced that it had settled Carlson's lawsuit for a reported $20 million and issued a public apology to her. This outcome was, quite literally, a landmark moment, signaling a significant victory for Carlson and for others who had been in similar situations. It was a clear message that such behavior would not be tolerated, and it really, really shifted the conversation around workplace culture. The settlement and apology were, as a matter of fact, very important steps, showing that action could be taken and that people could be held accountable.

The Aftermath and a New Purpose

The settlement of Gretchen Carlson's lawsuit had, in a way, a profound impact. It wasn't just about the financial compensation; it was about the public acknowledgment of what had happened and the ripple effect it created. This case, arguably, helped spark a broader movement, encouraging many other individuals to share their own stories of workplace misconduct. It showed that, you know, speaking up, even against powerful figures, could lead to real change. The courage she displayed, quite frankly, inspired countless others to come forward, and that's a pretty big deal.

After her departure from Fox News, Carlson did not simply disappear from the public eye. Instead, she found a new purpose, channeling her experience into advocacy. She became a very vocal champion for victims of harassment and assault, working to change laws and corporate policies. Her personal experience gave her, in a way, a unique perspective and a powerful voice, making her an incredibly effective advocate. She was, you know, now fighting for something bigger than just her own case, trying to make things better for everyone.

She testified before Congress, urging lawmakers to pass legislation that would eliminate forced arbitration clauses in employment contracts. These clauses, basically, often prevent individuals from suing their employers in court, forcing them instead into private arbitration, which can be less transparent and, in some respects, less fair. Her efforts were, you could say, a direct response to her own experience, as she had to fight to bring her case to court rather than being forced into arbitration. This legislative push, as a matter of fact, is still ongoing, and she remains a central figure in that effort.

Her story became, in a way, a touchstone for the larger conversation about workplace culture. It was, you know, a very clear example of how individuals can stand up for themselves and, in doing so, help create a safer environment for others. Her willingness to share her experience, honestly, resonated with so many people, making her a symbol of resilience and determination. The impact of her actions, pretty much, continues to be felt today, influencing how companies approach these issues.

Gretchen Carlson Today: Advocacy and Impact

Today, Gretchen Carlson remains a prominent figure in the fight for workplace fairness and safety. She continues her work as an advocate, speaking out, writing, and pushing for legislative changes. Her focus is, very much, on empowering others to speak their truth and holding companies accountable for creating respectful environments. She's, you know, using her platform to make a real difference, which is pretty inspiring, actually. Her efforts have, in fact, helped shine a brighter light on issues that were once kept in the shadows.

One of her key initiatives has been her work on the "Lift Our Voices" campaign, which aims to ban non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) that silence victims of workplace misconduct. These agreements, basically, prevent individuals from talking about their experiences, even after they've left a company or settled a case. She argues that these NDAs perpetuate a culture of secrecy and protect perpetrators, rather than victims. Her advocacy on this front is, you know, incredibly important, as it seeks to remove barriers that prevent people from sharing their stories and holding wrongdoers accountable.

She has also authored books, sharing her personal journey and offering guidance to others. Her book, "Be Fierce: Stop Harassment and Take Your Power Back," serves as a guide for those who have experienced similar situations, providing practical advice and encouragement. This is, in some respects, her way of giving back and helping others to understand their rights and options. It's a clear example of how someone can turn a difficult personal experience into a powerful force for good, much like how a clear guide to using "in," "on," and "at" prepositions can help someone learn to speak more correctly. Her work, you know, is about empowering individuals with the tools they need to succeed in any online or real-world talk, just like understanding how to use common English prepositions.

Gretchen Carlson's story is, therefore, a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have. She moved from being a well-known television personality to a leading voice for change, showing that true influence can come from standing up for what's right. Her journey highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and reform in workplaces everywhere, ensuring that everyone has a safe and equitable environment. It's, honestly, a testament to her strength and determination, and her legacy will, pretty much, continue to shape conversations around these vital issues for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gretchen Carlson

What was Gretchen Carlson's lawsuit about?

Gretchen Carlson's lawsuit, filed in July 2016, accused Roger Ailes, the then-chairman and CEO of Fox News, of sexual harassment and retaliation. She claimed that Ailes made unwanted sexual advances and that her contract was not renewed because she rejected him and complained about discriminatory treatment. This action, you know, led to a very public and significant legal battle, which, as a matter of fact, had widespread implications for workplace conduct.

Is Gretchen Carlson still on TV?

While Gretchen Carlson is no longer a regular host on a news program, she does make appearances on various television shows and news outlets as an advocate and commentator. Her focus has shifted, basically, from daily news broadcasting to her work as a champion for women's rights and workplace fairness. So, you know, while you might not see her hosting a show every day, she's still very much in the public eye, speaking out on important topics.

Who were the original hosts of Fox & Friends?

The original hosts of "Fox & Friends" when it launched in 1998 were Gretchen Carlson, Steve Doocy, and Brian Kilmeade. This trio, in a way, set the tone for the show and helped it gain its initial popularity. They were, you know, the faces that many viewers first associated with the program, and their dynamic really helped establish its unique morning style. It's interesting, because they were the very first team to kick off what would become a hugely successful show.

What Her Story Means for All of Us

Gretchen Carlson's journey, from a television personality to a leading advocate, tells us a lot about perseverance and the power of speaking up. Her experience, in a way, highlighted issues that many people faced but often felt they couldn't address. It showed that, you know, even in seemingly powerful positions, individuals can still face difficult situations. Her courage, honestly, helped open up conversations that were long overdue, prompting a wider examination of workplace environments.

Her story is, pretty much, a reminder that change often starts with one person's willingness to stand firm. It emphasizes the importance of creating workplaces where everyone feels safe and respected, where people can raise concerns without fear of retaliation. We can, you know, learn a lot from her experience about standing up for what's right, even when it's incredibly challenging. Her actions have, in fact, contributed to a greater understanding of these complex issues, much like how we explain the differences between "has" and "have" to help you use them correctly. You can learn more about workplace rights on our site, and link to this page to understand more about advocacy for change.

The impact of her lawsuit and subsequent advocacy has, arguably, been far-reaching, prompting companies to re-evaluate their policies and fostering a greater sense of accountability. It's about ensuring that everyone has the chance to succeed in an environment free from harassment, just like understanding simple past tense helps you talk about actions that started and ended in the past. Her work continues to inspire, showing that one person's voice can, truly, make a world of difference. For more insights into the topic, you can check out this article on The New York Times regarding her lawsuit.

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