Shep’s stock at Fox is dropping like a rock. First, they cancelled his 7 pm newscast when Megyn Kelly got promoted to prime time and Greta moved into the earlier timeslot, following “Special Report.” Believe me, no one misses ol’ Shep at 7.
As a sop, they made Smith their breaking news anchor with a new studio. But there’s a little problem; most of the evening hosts have it in their contract that if there is a breaking story, they will lead the coverage during their time slot. So, if there’s a major news event, Shep goes off at 6 pm, and you won’t see him again until 11 pm.
Roger Ailes was the man who promoted Smith and really made his career. With Roger’s departure from FNC, some of the execs are really wondering why they’re paying a 3 pm host $8 million a year. There are far more talented people at the network making a lot less. Of course, Shep’s status as a member of a protected class may buy him some time. But his career at Fox has peaked, and he may be the next one out the door—if he can find someone who will hire him.
Take it easy on Shep.
He’s got the best eye make-up of all the FOX hosts...and that’s gotta count for something.