Janice Dean has announced that she is stepping away from Fox News after more than two decades with the network, explaining that the progression of her multiple sclerosis has made it impossible for her to continue in her role.
The longtime Fox & Friends senior meteorologist shared the emotional news in a video posted to social media, confirming that her decision followed months of health challenges and discussions with her doctors.
Dean said her symptoms have progressed to the point where continuing her broadcasting career is no longer possible, adding that stepping away was necessary for her health.
The broadcaster first took a leave from work in November, telling viewers she needed time to rest because of health issues. At the time, she expressed hope that she would return. Months later, however, she revealed that her departure would become permanent.
An emotional farewell after more than two decades
Speaking directly to viewers, Dean reflected on the career she built during her 22 years at Fox News.
She said she would miss the friendships she formed, the places she traveled, the storms she covered, and the millions of viewers who welcomed her into their homes each morning.
Dean explained that, for many years, she successfully managed the demanding schedule that came with live television, including early mornings, long hours on her feet, and the pressure of daily broadcasting.
But she acknowledged that those responsibilities had gradually become more difficult as her illness progressed.
“Ultimately, my symptoms progressed to the point that I can no longer continue working in my role, and my doctors agreed that stepping away was necessary for my health,” Dean said.
As she concluded her farewell message, she became emotional while thanking viewers for their support throughout her career.
She described her departure as a “mostly sunny goodbye,” adding that every goodbye also carries the hope of another hello and perhaps the chance to meet again someday.
Living with multiple sclerosis
Dean revealed that she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2005, though she did not publicly discuss the diagnosis until 2023, when she described it as an invisible illness.
According to information referenced from the Mayo Clinic, multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease that interrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body by damaging the protective covering surrounding nerve fibers. There is currently no cure for the condition.
Dean explained that she has spent the past two decades managing the disease with various therapies after receiving an early diagnosis.
She also noted that lack of sleep and stress are among the biggest triggers for her symptoms, making the demanding schedule of morning television increasingly difficult over time.
“For those living with MS, the war is inside of us,” Dean said in her farewell message, explaining that while many people with the disease may appear healthy, permanent damage often cannot be seen.
Fox News honors Dean’s career
Following her announcement, Fox News Media released a statement recognizing Dean’s contributions to the network.
The company praised her warmth, resilience, and dedication throughout her 22-year career, adding that her willingness to publicly share her personal health journey had inspired countless viewers.
Fox News also said it fully supports Dean’s decision to prioritize her health and thanked her for her years of service.
Dean joined Fox News Channel in January 2004 before becoming the network’s senior meteorologist on Fox & Friends. Before arriving at Fox News, she began her journalism career in Ottawa, Canada, later working in New York and Texas.
Throughout her farewell, Dean repeatedly expressed gratitude to her colleagues, viewers, family, and close friends for supporting her throughout her career and during her battle with multiple sclerosis.
Although Janice Dean’s time on Fox & Friends has come to an end, her message made clear that she leaves with gratitude, appreciation, and hope for the future as she focuses on her health.
