Janice Dean, a veteran meteorologist on Fox News’ “Fox & Friends,” announced Thursday that she is leaving the network after 22 years due to health reasons.
Dean, who has multiple sclerosis (MS), has been off the air for several months. In a video shared on X, she stated that her symptoms have progressed to a point where she can no longer continue in her role, a decision supported by her doctors.
"Getting up at 2:30 in the morning and performing anything is hard, but especially for someone who has multiple sclerosis," Dean explained, noting that lack of sleep and stress are significant triggers for her condition. She elaborated that for individuals with MS, the "war is inside of us," where the immune system attacks the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerve, sometimes leaving permanent, though often invisible, scars.
Dean was diagnosed early and has undergone various therapies over the past two decades. She acknowledged that while there is no cure for MS, her symptoms have worsened over time, impacting her ability to perform her job.
Fox News Media released a statement praising Dean's "warmth, resilience, and dedication." The network added that her willingness to share her personal health journey has "touched countless lives and served as a source of strength and encouragement to many."
Several Fox News colleagues expressed their well wishes and shared tributes on social media. John Roberts described Dean as a part of the "Fox family" and said she would be missed. Jessica Tarlov called Dean courageous and commended her decision to prioritize her health, noting her warmth and genuineness. Martha MacCallum reflected on their early days at Fox News, calling Dean an inspiration and an example of "courage and grace."