Janice Dean, a familiar face on Fox News for over two decades, bid an emotional farewell to the network on Friday, concluding her tenure as a senior meteorologist.
Dean announced her retirement from "Fox & Friends" after 22 years, attributing her decision to the demanding early morning schedule and its impact on her health, particularly her ongoing battle with multiple sclerosis. She expressed gratitude to the audience, referring to them as "friends," and reflected on her career milestones during her time on air.
"I have loved every moment you have invited me into your living rooms every single morning," a tearful Dean said during her final broadcast. "It has been an honor of my life. And I feel really blessed to have done this job."
Dean, who joined Fox News more than 22 years ago, had previously shared on social media that the 2:30 a.m. wake-up calls required for her role were detrimental to her well-being. "It's tough on your body. I did it for a long time, and I probably shouldn't have done it as long as I did," she stated, adding that she hoped to make necessary adjustments to her health.
During her 22 years with the network, Dean shared significant personal and professional events with viewers, including her engagement, the birth of her children, and the loss of her in-laws during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Looking ahead, Dean plans to dedicate more time to her family, especially her two teenage sons. She also acknowledged the support of her husband, who managed much of the household responsibilities to allow her to pursue her career.
Dean described her departure as a "grieving period," emphasizing the importance of this final on-air moment to help transition from a significant chapter of her life. Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. Currently, there is no cure for the illness.