Steve Doocy Steps Back from Full-Time Hosting of Fox & Friends After Nearly Three Decades

In a heartfelt announcement that has both surprised and delighted fans, Fox News anchor Steve Doocy revealed that he is stepping back from his full-time hosting duties on Fox & Friends. After nearly 30 years of waking up at the crack of dawn to host the popular morning show, Doocy, 66, has decided to transition to a new phase in his career, moving his base of operations to Florida. While still remaining an integral part of the team, he will now host the show remotely three days a week, leaving him more time to focus on his family and engage with diverse communities across the U.S.

A Long-Awaited Change: Doocy’s Decision to Step Back

On May 1, 2025, Steve Doocy made the announcement during an emotional segment of Fox & Friends, revealing the personal reasons behind his decision. “It is a great job, but the hours suck,” Doocy joked, reflecting on the challenges of the early mornings that have been a staple of his career. Having spent decades commuting early every morning to the studio, Doocy said it was time to make a change that would give him more time with his family.

“We’ve been talking about this for years, Ainsley and I, about how difficult it is to dash back from wherever we are on the weekends to be live, on this couch, at 6 a.m. on Monday,” Doocy shared. “But we have to because the ‘Curvy Couch’ is such a big part of the show.”

Despite the change, Doocy clarified that he’s not retiring but simply adjusting his schedule to better balance work and family. He explained that his move to Florida would allow him to report from various locations across the country, including 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’s Last Day and His Excitement for a New Chapter

Doocy’s last day in the New York studio was marked with a mix of excitement and nostalgia. Although he will continue contributing to Fox & Friends remotely, his final day at the New York desk was filled with sentimental moments. He thanked the network and his colleagues for the incredible experiences over the years and expressed his joy in continuing his work while adjusting his schedule to be more present with his family.

“I’ve spent decades building relationships with viewers across the country, and I’m excited about this new chapter,” Doocy said. “I can still bring the news, connect with viewers, and enjoy more quality time with my family.” He also humorously referenced taking some time off before transitioning into his new role, joking that he would be back “in ten days when it’s time to make the donuts,” a reference to a classic Dunkin’ Donuts ad.

A Familiar Face: Steve Doocy’s Iconic Career

Steve Doocy’s career at Fox News has been legendary. Having joined the network in 1996, Doocy was named the co-host of Fox & Friends in 1998, just two years after the show’s debut. As the longest-running co-host on a major network morning show, only second to TODAY’s Al Roker, Doocy has built a reputation as a trusted figure for millions of viewers. Throughout his career, Doocy’s engaging personality and relatable style have made him one of the most beloved figures in American television.

Doocy has won multiple accolades during his career, including 11 Emmy Awards, and has interviewed some of the most significant political figures, including Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton, and former President George W. Bush. His easygoing demeanor, combined with his sharp political commentary, has helped Fox & Friends maintain its spot as one of the most-watched morning shows on cable news, consistently averaging over 1.5 million viewers in 2025.

Doocy’s Personal Life: Family and Faith Take Center Stage

As a father of three and a longtime husband, Doocy’s transition to more family-oriented work reflects his deep commitment to balancing his professional life with his personal one. He shares a close relationship with his children and his wife, Kathy, who have always been his support system. The change allows him to spend more time with his family, something that has long been on his mind, given the demanding nature of his work schedule.

Doocy’s decision is also a reflection of his faith and personal values. Throughout his career, Doocy has been open about his strong Christian beliefs, which have helped guide him both professionally and personally. This transition marks an opportunity for him to focus on his family, engage with new communities, and continue serving his viewers with integrity and insight.

Donald Trump’s Message and Public Response

In a gesture that highlighted the connection between Doocy and President Donald Trump, Trump released a special video message congratulating Doocy on his decision. In the clip, 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,” Trump said, echoing the sentiment of many Fox News viewers who have watched Doocy over the years.

Trump also referenced his son, Peter Doocy, who has become a prominent reporter at Fox News. Peter Doocy, who was promoted to Senior White House Correspondent in 2024, is continuing the legacy of political reporting that his father helped establish. The Doocy family’s involvement in the world of media and politics is significant, with both father and son playing vital roles in shaping conservative commentary.

What’s Next for Fox & Friends?

With Doocy’s transition, many are curious about how Fox & Friends will adapt to the changes. While Doocy will remain part of the team, his remote role means that viewers will experience a new dynamic in the morning lineup. His colleagues, such as Ainsley Earhardt and Brian Kilmeade, will continue hosting alongside him, but the shift to a more flexible schedule could also bring fresh energy to the show.

Fox News has not yet announced any permanent changes to the Fox & Friends lineup, but insiders suggest that the network may begin experimenting with different guest hosts or formats to accommodate Doocy’s new role. The 4 a.m. start time, which has long been a challenge for the hosts, will no longer be a daily grind for Doocy, but his presence and contributions will remain integral to the show’s success.

Looking Ahead: Doocy’s Legacy

As Steve Doocy embarks on this new phase of his career, it’s clear that his legacy at Fox News will continue to influence both the network and its viewers. His career in television has not only shaped the face of Fox & Friends, but his straightforward, personable style has also inspired a generation of news anchors and commentators. Doocy’s transition to a more family-centered life is just the latest chapter in his remarkable journey, but it marks a new chapter both for him and for the millions of viewers who have followed him over the years.

While his full-time departure from the studio is a major change for the show, Doocy’s unwavering commitment to his audience and his family will remain his top priorities. His ongoing role in the media landscape will no doubt continue to shape the future of Fox News and its influence on conservative discourse for years to come.

Conclusion: A New Era for Steve Doocy and Fox News

Steve Doocy’s decision to step back from full-time hosting duties on Fox & Friends signals a new chapter in his career, one that prioritizes family and flexibility while maintaining his role as a trusted figure in American television. As Doocy continues to contribute to the network remotely, his legacy of insightful reporting and engaging commentary will remain a cornerstone of the show’s success. His transition also highlights the importance of work-life balance and the need for media professionals to adapt to changing circumstances while staying true to their values. For Doocy, this is not the end of an era but the beginning of a new and exciting phase in his career.