Fox News Veteran Neil Cavuto Departs After 28 Years: ‘Not Leaving Journalism, Just Leaving Here’

Longtime anchor exits as Trump celebrates his departure

Neil Cavuto, a Fox News mainstay for nearly three decades, has officially parted ways with the network, signing off for the last time on Thursday, December 19.

The 66-year-old anchor announced his departure during his final broadcast of Your World, the afternoon program he had hosted since Fox News launched in 1996.

Host Neil Cavuto during a conversation with The Carlyle Group Co-Founder David Rubenstein on "Cavuto Coast To Coast" at Fox Business Network Studios on September 19, 2022 in New York City.

Cavuto Bids Farewell: ‘I Got to Do What I Love’

Addressing viewers, Cavuto reflected on his time at Fox with gratitude and humor.

“I’ve been doing this for nearly three decades here,” he said.

“There are people working with me now who weren’t even born when I started at Fox. That’s how old I am.

While he acknowledged that leaving had been on his mind for a while, Cavuto clarified that his exit was not a retirement from journalism.

“I’m not leaving journalism.

 I’m just leaving here,” he emphasized.

“I got to do what I love to do—report the news.

 Not shout the news, not blast the news.

 Not call names, just call balls and strikes, following the news, holding truth to power, and fairness to all. That’s it. That’s me.

neil cavuto

Trump Reacts: ‘Good News for America!’

Cavuto has been known for fact-checking Donald Trump on various occasions, which led to frequent clashes between the two.

Unsurprisingly, the former president was quick to celebrate his departure.

“GOOD NEWS FOR AMERICA! Neil Cavuto, the Lowest Rated Anchor on Fox, by far, is leaving—Should have happened a long time ago!” Trump posted on his Truth Social platform.

Neil Cavuto

Fox Colleagues Pay Tribute

Despite Trump’s reaction, many of Cavuto’s Fox News colleagues took time to praise him.

During The Five, co-hosts shared well wishes.

Dana Perino highlighted his “big heart” and “trusted voice,” while Jesse Watters commended his “work ethic” and “remarkable career.

Jeanine Pirro added, “Neil Cavuto is not only a good man, he’s really smart, and I learned a lot from listening to him.

 You need a break, Neil! Enjoy every minute.

Jessica Tarlov noted that Cavuto was known for personally writing handwritten notes to first-time guests on his shows.

Behind the Scenes: Contract Dispute?

While Cavuto thanked his bosses at Fox and expressed appreciation for his time at the network, sources suggest that contract negotiations may have played a role in his exit.

According to CNN, Cavuto was offered a contract extension at a lower salary, which he ultimately declined.

Neil Cavuto Out at Fox News: Original Your World Host Exits Channel

Praise from Industry Peers

Outside of Fox, industry figures also paid tribute to Cavuto’s legacy.

The Hill’s editor-in-chief Bob Cusack posted, “I’ve always appreciated you. You call balls and strikes. You’re not a ‘yes-man.’ It’s an honor to be on your show.

Former Fox News anchor Geraldo Rivera echoed similar sentiments: “Bravo Neil Cavuto on three great decades at Fox News.

 Fair and balanced for real.

 Even in the Time of Trump, he was a truth teller.

 He angered the ideologues but never backed down.

Veteran Fox News business anchor Neil Cavuto leaving after 28 years | AP News

Fox News Issues Statement

Fox News also issued a formal farewell statement, commending Cavuto’s impact on journalism.

“Neil Cavuto’s illustrious career has been a master class in journalism, and we’re extremely proud of his incredible 28-year run with Fox News Media,” the network stated.

“His programs have defined business news and set the standard for the entire industry.

 We wish him a heartfelt farewell and all the best in his next chapter.

What’s Next for Cavuto?

While Cavuto has not revealed his next move, his strong commitment to journalism suggests that his career is far from over.

For now, he leaves behind a remarkable legacy—one of sharp analysis, integrity, and a steadfast dedication to fair reporting.