Steve Doocy, a founding co-host of Fox News’ Fox & Friends, announced on May 1 that he is stepping back from his full-time role on the show.

After nearly three decades of early morning broadcasts from the New York City studio, Doocy will now co-host three days a week from Florida, allowing him more time with his family and the opportunity to report from various locations across the country. He emphasized that he is not retiring but transitioning to a new phase in his career.

What Happened to Steve Doocy?

In an emotional on-air announcement, Doocy shared that he would no longer be hosting Fox & Friends from the New York studio.

He explained that after decades of waking up at 3:30 a.m. for early broadcasts, he sought a lifestyle change.“It is a great job, but the hours suck,” he laughed on-air in the lead-up to the announcement. “Ainsley [Earhardt] and I have talked about this for years, about how hard it is to dash back from wherever we are on the weekends to be live, on this couch, at 6 A.M. on Monday. But we have to because the Curvy Couch is an important part of the show.”

Doocy will now be based in Florida, hosting the show remotely three days a week and reporting from various locations across the country. This move allows him more time for family and the opportunity to cover stories from regions that often receive limited media coverage.

“Florida is strategic. It’s going to make it easier for me to report from Florida and other parts of America that don’t get a lot of network airtime,” he explained. “I’ll be going from the Carolinas to the Keys. From Middle America to Mar-a-Lago. So, call me the coast-to-coast host.”

Doocy also said he was taking some time away before his transition to visit with his family, which explains his temporary absence from the show.

“I’ll be back in ten days when it’s time to make the donuts,” he said on May 1, referencing a Dunkin’ Donuts commercial from the 1980’s. It suggests Doocy will likely return to his new position sometime next week.

Did Steve Doocy Retire from ‘Fox & Friends’?

Despite stepping back from daily hosting duties, Doocy made it clear that he is not retiring. He will continue to contribute to the show as a co-host, providing commentary and reporting from different parts of the U.S.

“You’ve trusted me for all these years, and don’t worry, you will still hear my voice and my opinions, loud and clear,” he said on-air.

Doocy expressed excitement about this new chapter, stating that the change allows him to have breakfast with his grandchildren and children whenever he can.

In a press release, FOX’s Executive Vice President of Morning Programming & Program Development Megan Albano said: “For nearly 30 years, Steve has been a force on the curvy couch with his signature smile and wit. His relationship with our audience is unmatched and we are looking forward to him taking his trademark style from the couch to cities across America’s heartland where he will co-host from diners to pickleball courts and more and finally not have to drive across the George Washington Bridge at 3:30am every morning.”

What Did Donald Trump Say About Doocy?

Former President Donald Trump, a frequent viewer of Fox & Friends, shared a special message congratulating Doocy on his transition.

In a prerecorded video, Trump thanked Doocy for his “fair” coverage over the years and wished him well in his new role.

“It’s really been an honor to have spent so much time with you and watching you and the whole group in the morning,” Trump said in a pre-recorded clip.

Trump also positively referenced his son, Peter Doocy, who was promoted to Senior White House Correspondent with Fox News in 2024.

Who is Steve Doocy?

Steve Doocy joined Fox News Channel in 1996 and was named co-host of Fox & Friends in 1998 when the show launched. Doocy is the longest running co-host in network morning television other than Al Roker who is part of the TODAY show ensemble.

Fox & Friends has averaged 1.5 million viewers in 2025 to date, per a press release.

Over the years, he has been a familiar face for viewers, engaging in political discussions and interviewing major figures like Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton. Doocy has earned multiple awards for his reporting and writing, including 11 Emmy Awards from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.

In his new role, Doocy will continue to be an integral part of Fox & Friends, bringing stories to viewers while enjoying a more flexible schedule that allows for more family time.

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EXCLUSIVE: Sandra Smith Lands ‘The Five’ Spot – Who Got the Boot in Surprise Move?

In an unexpected move that has sent shockwaves through the media world, Sandra Smith, one of Fox News’ most respected anchors, has been promoted to a highly influential position at the network. Known for her sharp political analysis, calm demeanor, and engaging personality, Smith’s new role marks a significant turning point for Fox News, as it attempts to adapt to changing viewer preferences and face rising competition from other networks. This career shift not only boosts Smith’s visibility but also places her at the forefront of shaping the network’s editorial direction and future programming strategies.

Sandra Smith’s journey to the top of Fox News has been marked by hard work, dedication, and a knack for political analysis. Smith initially joined Fox News in 2007 as a reporter for Fox Business Network, and her career quickly gained momentum due to her financial background and expertise. With her experience in stock analysis and finance, Smith brought a unique perspective to Fox News, blending her business acumen with her political insights to deliver sharp commentary.

Her transition into Fox News programming solidified her place as a leading anchor, as she became a key co-host on America’s Newsroom, Outnumbered, and The Five. Her ability to connect with audiences while presenting complex political and economic issues with clarity made her a fan favorite, and her rapport with viewers grew stronger with each appearance.

Now, as she steps into a more influential role, Smith is poised to continue guiding the network’s editorial direction, ensuring that Fox News remains relevant and adaptable in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

Smith’s promotion is part of a broader restructuring at Fox News, as the network looks to adjust its programming lineup in response to changing audience dynamics. While Fox News has maintained its position as a leader in cable news, it faces increasing scrutiny and competition from younger media voices and alternative news outlets.By placing Smith in a more powerful position, Fox News is signaling its commitment to adapting to the demands of a diverse audience while maintaining its core conservative viewership. Smith’s leadership, which is expected to include substantial influence over editorial decisions, offers the network a chance to navigate the complexities of modern news consumption.

Smith’s presence as a balanced and relatable figure in the newsroom provides an opportunity for Fox News to expand its reach and engage with a broader range of viewers. In a political media environment where polarization often reigns, Smith’s measured approach and ability to connect with both conservative and moderate audiences could be the key to navigating these challenges.

Sandra Smith’s promotion is also a notable move for gender equality in the media industry, particularly at a time when the representation of women in leadership positions remains a topic of conversation. As the network continues to evolve, Fox News is investing in strong women leaders like Smith, Harris Faulkner, and Dana Perino—women who have demonstrated their capability to shape the future of television news.
In a historically male-dominated space, Smith’s ascent to a leadership role underscores Fox News’ growing commitment to fostering talent based on merit, regardless of gender. Her rise mirrors the success of other female anchors who have proven their ability to balance professionalism with authenticity, making them powerful voices on-air and behind the scenes.Smith’s leadership will not only strengthen Fox News’ programming but also set an example for other networks and media outlets striving for greater inclusion and representation.

As Sandra Smith steps into her new role, her influence over the future of Fox News will be felt immediately. While the specifics of her new position remain somewhat vague, insiders suggest that Smith will be involved in a variety of important initiatives, from shaping the network’s editorial voice to overseeing the development of new programming formats.

Given her background and ability to connect with viewers, Smith is poised to play a key role in ensuring that Fox News remains a dominant force in cable news for years to come. Whether it’s through new primetime segments, digital content, or innovative programming, Smith’s leadership will likely shape the direction of the network in the coming years.

Fans can expect more of Smith’s signature blend of political commentary, insightful analysis, and relatable interactions with her fellow co-hosts. Her ability to bridge divides and maintain a balanced approach will continue to make her a central figure in the world of political news, and Fox News is counting on her leadership to carry the network through its next chapter.

With Sandra Smith at the helm of Fox News’ editorial direction, the network is entering a new era of growth and adaptation. As one of the most respected and engaging anchors in cable news, Smith’s ability to shape the network’s programming and foster inclusive dialogue will be critical in maintaining its standing as a trusted news source.
Fans of Fox News can look forward to seeing more of Smith’s thoughtful and balanced approach to political analysis, as she continues to guide the network through a rapidly changing media landscape. Her rise to power signals not just a personal achievement, but also a step forward for women in leadership positions within the media industry.In conclusion, Sandra Smith’s promotion is a significant milestone for Fox News, one that promises to have lasting effects on the network’s programming and its approach to political discourse. As Smith’s influence continues to grow, her impact on the future of Fox News will be undeniable, and fans can look forward to watching her lead the network through its next chapter with poise and professionalism.