After a brief absence that left fans wondering when their favorite morning host would return, Ainsley Earhardt has officially reclaimed her seat on Fox & Friends, bringing with her the bright energy and Southern charm viewers know and love. Following a short time off in the days surrounding Independence Day, her Monday morning return lit up screens across the country, and her audience couldn’t be happier.

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Earhardt, a staple of Fox News since 2007, co-hosts the hit morning show alongside Steve Doocy and Brian Kilmeade. While she was away, her spot was temporarily filled by Kayleigh McEnany, former White House Press Secretary and current Fox News contributor. McEnany took to social media last week to share her excitement about stepping in:

“Tomorrow, Thursday, and Friday, I will be filling in on @foxandfriends, @FoxNews for my amazing friend and colleague @ainsleyearhardt,” she tweeted. “Join us from 6am-9am ET and Happy Fourth of July to all!”

Though fans appreciated McEnany’s contribution, it was clear that Earhardt’s unique spark had been missed. Her return came with a joyful bang as the show welcomed Piers Morgan as a guest—and things took an unexpectedly playful turn when he decided to give the crew a lesson in cricket, the British sport most Americans know only vaguely. Ainsley posted a photo on Instagram holding a cricket bat alongside her co-hosts and Morgan, captioning it with:

“Big thank you to our good friend @piersmorgan for teaching us some cricket!”

That lighthearted moment quickly turned into a celebration of her return. Fans rushed to the comment section, expressing joy and admiration:

“Welcome back @aearhardt!”
“Great show this morning,” wrote another.
“Great group,” added a third.

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For years, Ainsley Earhardt has been a trusted and endearing presence on the Fox News network. In addition to Fox & Friends, she’s graced viewers with appearances on Hannity, Fox and Friends Weekend, and high-profile specials like All-American New Year’s Eve. Her promotion to full-time Fox & Friends co-host in 2016 solidified her as a fixture in many households.

Her brief absence reminded viewers of just how vital she is to the tone and heart of the show. Whether she’s delivering news, interviewing guests, or swinging a cricket bat in heels, Ainsley Earhardt remains one of the most beloved personalities on cable television—and fans are clearly thrilled to have her back.