Ainsley Earhardt has established herself as one of the most recognizable faces in American morning television through her role as co-host of Fox & Friends. Born in Spartanburg, South Carolina, this accomplished journalist has built an impressive career spanning over two decades in broadcast journalism. Ainsley Earhardt’s journey from local news reporter to national television personality showcases her dedication, charisma, and journalistic integrity. As of 2026, Ainsley Earhardt continues to be a prominent figure at Fox News Channel, engaging millions of viewers each morning with her insightful commentary and warm personality. Her professional achievements include bestselling author status, influential media presence, and recognition as one of television’s most trusted news anchors. Throughout her career, Ainsley Earhardt has maintained a strong connection with her audience while navigating the evolving landscape of broadcast journalism. Her commitment to delivering news with authenticity and her Southern charm have made her a beloved figure in American households, contributing to Fox & Friends’ position as the number one cable news morning show.
Personal Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ainsley Earhardt |
| Date of Birth | September 20, 1976 |
| Age | 48 years (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA |
| Current Residence | New York City, New York |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Height | 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) |
| Education | University of South Carolina (Bachelor’s in Journalism) |
| Occupation | Television Host, Journalist, Author |
| Current Position | Co-host of Fox & Friends |
| Years Active | 2000–Present |
| Network | Fox News Channel |
| Marital Status | Reportedly Engaged (2025) |
| Children | 1 (Hayden, born 2015) |
| Religion | Christian (Protestant) |
Early Life and Education
Ainsley Earhardt was born on September 20, 1976, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, to parents Dale Earhardt and Wayne Earhardt. Growing up in the Charlotte, North Carolina area, she was raised in a loving Christian household that emphasized faith, family, and hard work. Her upbringing in the South would later influence her warm, personable on-air demeanor and conservative values.
Earhardt attended Spring Valley High School in Columbia, South Carolina, where she was an active student involved in various extracurricular activities. Following her graduation, she enrolled at Florida State University before transferring to the University of South Carolina, where she graduated with honors, earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism.
During her college years, Ainsley Earhardt demonstrated early signs of her journalistic talent and ambition. She was a member of the Alpha Delta Pi sorority and actively participated in campus media activities, laying the groundwork for her future career in broadcast journalism.
Career Beginnings and Rise to Prominence
Local News Career
Ainsley Earhardt began her broadcasting career in her home state at WLTX News 19 in Columbia, South Carolina, where she worked as a reporter. Her talent quickly became evident, and she was promoted to the morning and noon anchor position. During her tenure at WLTX, she earned recognition for her coverage of significant stories and won the prestigious Telly Award.
Her coverage of the tragic case of a South Carolina mother who drowned her two young sons earned her widespread acclaim and demonstrated her ability to handle sensitive stories with professionalism and empathy. This early success established her reputation as a serious journalist capable of covering both hard news and human-interest stories.
Transition to National Television
In 2007, Ainsley Earhardt made the pivotal move to Fox News Channel in New York City, a transition that would define her career. She initially joined as a correspondent, reporting on various stories and filling in as a co-host on Fox & Friends. Her chemistry with the audience and her co-hosts quickly became apparent.
Her permanent appointment as co-host of Fox & Friends came later, solidifying her position as one of the network’s most visible personalities. The morning show consistently ranks as the number one cable news morning program, reaching millions of Americans daily. Ainsley Earhardt’s contribution to this success cannot be overstated, as her engaging interviewing style and ability to connect with guests from all backgrounds has made her an invaluable asset to the program.
Professional Achievements and Recognition
Fox News Career Highlights
As co-host of Fox & Friends, Ainsley Earhardt has interviewed numerous high-profile figures, including presidents, politicians, celebrities, and newsmakers. Her interviews are characterized by thorough preparation, respectful yet probing questions, and an ability to make guests comfortable while still seeking substantive answers.
Throughout her tenure at Fox News, she has covered major breaking news events, presidential elections, natural disasters, and cultural moments that have shaped American discourse. Her versatility allows her to seamlessly transition from serious political discussions to lighter segments that resonate with the morning show’s diverse audience.
Bestselling Author
Beyond her television work, Ainsley Earhardt has achieved success as an author. Her children’s book “Take Heart, My Child: A Mother’s Dream,” inspired by her daughter Hayden, became a bestseller and reflected her values of faith and family. The book encourages children to embrace faith and overcome challenges through God’s love.
She followed this success with another book, “Through Your Eyes: My Child’s Gift to Me,” which explores motherhood from a unique perspective. Her writing demonstrates her ability to connect with audiences beyond the television screen and share her personal experiences in meaningful ways.
Personal Life and Relationships
Marriages and Family
Ainsley Earhardt’s personal life has been the subject of considerable public interest. She was first married to Kevin McKinney in 2005, but the marriage ended in divorce in 2009. She then married former Clemson University quarterback Will Proctor in 2012. The couple welcomed their daughter, Hayden, in 2015.
However, Earhardt and Proctor’s marriage also ended in divorce, finalized in 2019. Despite the challenges of divorce, she has maintained a positive co-parenting relationship focused on their daughter’s wellbeing. Hayden, now 10 years old as of 2026, remains the center of Ainsley’s world, and she frequently speaks about the joys and challenges of motherhood.
Relationship with Sean Hannity
Perhaps the most discussed aspect of Ainsley Earhardt’s recent personal life is her relationship with fellow Fox News personality Sean Hannity. The two colleagues reportedly began dating around 2019, though they kept their relationship private for several years. Both being high-profile Fox News hosts and having experienced divorces, they approached their relationship with discretion.
In 2025, reports emerged that Sean Hannity and Ainsley Earhardt had announced their engagement, though the couple has remained relatively private about specific details. The engagement ring has been spotted on various occasions, fueling public interest in their relationship. As of 2026, fans and media outlets continue to speculate about wedding plans, though no official date has been publicly announced.
The age difference between Sean Hannity (born 1961) and Ainsley Earhardt (born 1976) spans approximately 15 years, though this has not been a significant focus of their relationship coverage. Both share conservative values, strong faith, and successful careers at Fox News, creating a foundation of common ground.
Net Worth and Financial Success
Salary and Earnings
Ainsley Earhardt has built substantial wealth through her successful broadcasting career. As of 2026, her estimated net worth ranges between $8 million and $10 million, though some sources suggest it could be higher. Her primary income source is her salary from Fox News Channel, where she reportedly earns approximately $3 million annually as co-host of Fox & Friends.
Income Sources
Beyond her Fox News salary, Ainsley Earhardt generates income through:
- Book Sales: Her bestselling children’s books continue to generate royalties
- Speaking Engagements: She commands significant fees for public appearances and speeches
- Real Estate Investments: She owns valuable property in New York
- Brand Partnerships: While selective, she occasionally partners with brands aligned with her values
Her financial success reflects not only her broadcasting talent but also her business acumen and ability to diversify her income streams while maintaining her brand integrity.
Social Media Presence and Public Engagement
Instagram and Digital Footprint
Ainsley Earhardt maintains an active presence on social media platforms, particularly Instagram, where she shares glimpses of her professional life, family moments with daughter Hayden, and inspirational messages. Her Instagram account features behind-the-scenes content from Fox & Friends, vacation photos, and posts reflecting her Christian faith.
Her social media strategy balances professional content with personal moments, allowing fans to connect with her beyond the television screen while maintaining appropriate boundaries. She uses her platform to promote her books, share Fox News segments, and occasionally address public interest in her personal life.
Twitter and Professional Communication
On Twitter, Ainsley Earhardt engages with news stories, shares Fox News content, and interacts with viewers. Her Twitter presence is more professionally focused than her Instagram, though she occasionally shares personal insights and responds to fan questions.
Faith and Values
Christian Beliefs
Ainsley Earhardt has been open about her strong Christian faith, which she credits as the foundation of her life and career. Raised in a Christian household in the South, her Protestant beliefs influence her worldview, parenting philosophy, and professional decisions. She frequently discusses the role of faith in overcoming challenges and finding purpose.
Her children’s books explicitly incorporate Christian themes, and she has stated that raising her daughter with strong faith is among her highest priorities. This openness about faith resonates with a significant portion of Fox & Friends’ audience and contributes to her authentic connection with viewers.
Style and Fashion
On-Air Appearance
Ainsley Earhardt is known for her polished, professional appearance on Fox & Friends. Her wardrobe choices typically include elegant dresses, tailored suits, and sophisticated accessories that project both professionalism and approachability. She often wears classic styles that appeal to the morning show’s broad demographic.
Her fashion choices have garnered attention from viewers, with many fans asking about her clothing and jewelry. She occasionally shares information about her outfits on social media, though she maintains that substance and journalistic integrity matter more than appearance.
Jewelry and Accessories
The engagement ring from Sean Hannity, when visible, has particularly captured public attention, with observers noting its elegance and significance. Throughout her career, Ainsley has favored timeless jewelry pieces, including her signature gold watch and classic pearl accessories.
Controversies and Challenges
Navigating Public Scrutiny
As a prominent figure at Fox News, Ainsley Earhardt has faced both support and criticism. Some controversies have surrounded her relationship with Sean Hannity, questions about her journalistic objectivity, and her role at a network that often faces political criticism.
However, she has maintained professionalism throughout her career, focusing on her work rather than responding to every critique. Her ability to remain gracious under pressure has earned respect even from those who may disagree with her network’s political perspective.
Divorce and Personal Challenges
The public nature of her divorces, particularly from Will Proctor, brought personal challenges into the spotlight. However, Ainsley Earhardt has handled these difficulties with dignity, choosing to focus on co-parenting and moving forward rather than engaging in public disputes.
Community Involvement and Philanthropy
While Ainsley Earhardt keeps much of her charitable work private, she has supported various causes throughout her career, particularly those related to children, education, and Christian organizations. She has participated in Fox News Channel’s charity initiatives and used her platform to raise awareness for causes she believes in.
Her approach to philanthropy aligns with her values of faith and family, often supporting organizations that provide resources to struggling families or promote Christian education.
Latest Updates (2025-2026)
Current Professional Status
As of 2026, Ainsley Earhardt continues as co-host of Fox & Friends, maintaining her position as one of cable news’s most-watched morning personalities. The show continues to dominate ratings in its time slot, and her contributions remain central to its success.
Recent Projects
Recent projects include potential new book releases, continued engagement with her audience through social media, and ongoing discussions about her upcoming wedding to Sean Hannity. While specific wedding plans remain private, interest in the event continues to generate media attention.
What Ainsley Earhardt Is Doing Now
Currently, Ainsley balances her demanding career at Fox News with motherhood and wedding planning. She continues to interview newsmakers, cover breaking stories, and engage with the millions of Americans who start their day with Fox & Friends. Her daughter Hayden, now 10, remains a priority, and Ainsley frequently discusses the importance of maintaining work-life balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Ainsley Earhardt?
Ainsley Earhardt is 48 years old, born on September 20, 1976. She celebrated her most recent birthday in September 2025 and remains actively engaged in her broadcasting career.
Is Ainsley Earhardt engaged to Sean Hannity?
Yes, Ainsley Earhardt is reportedly engaged to Sean Hannity as of 2025. The couple announced their engagement after dating privately for several years, though they maintain discretion about specific wedding details.
What is Ainsley Earhardt’s net worth?
Ainsley Earhardt’s net worth is estimated between $8-10 million as of 2026. Her annual Fox News salary is approximately $3 million, supplemented by book royalties, speaking fees, and other ventures.
Does Ainsley Earhardt have children?
Yes, Ainsley Earhardt has one daughter named Hayden, born in 2015 from her marriage to Will Proctor. Hayden is currently 10 years old and is frequently mentioned by Ainsley as her greatest blessing.
Where is Ainsley Earhardt from?
Ainsley Earhardt is from Spartanburg, South Carolina, though she was raised in the Charlotte, North Carolina area. She attended the University of South Carolina before beginning her broadcasting career in Columbia.
Is Ainsley Earhardt married?
As of 2026, Ainsley Earhardt is not currently married but is engaged to Sean Hannity. She was previously married twice, first to Kevin McKinney (2005-2009) and then to Will Proctor (2012-2019).
What does Ainsley Earhardt do?
Ainsley Earhardt is a television host and journalist who serves as co-host of Fox & Friends on Fox News Channel. She also works as an author, having published bestselling children’s books.
How did Ainsley Earhardt start her career?
Ainsley Earhardt began her career as a reporter at WLTX News 19 in Columbia, South Carolina, where she eventually became morning and noon anchor. She joined Fox News Channel in 2007 and rose to co-host of Fox & Friends.
Conclusion
Ainsley Earhardt’s journey from small-town South Carolina to becoming one of America’s most recognized television journalists exemplifies dedication, authenticity, and resilience. Her 48 years have been marked by professional achievements, personal growth, and unwavering commitment to her values. As co-host of Fox & Friends, bestselling author, and devoted mother, she has built a multifaceted career that resonates with millions.
Looking toward 2026 and beyond, Ainsley Earhardt’s future appears bright. With her engagement to Sean Hannity, continued success at Fox News, and growing influence as an author and media personality, she stands poised to expand her impact further. Her ability to balance career demands with motherhood while maintaining authenticity has made her a role model for many women navigating similar challenges.
As the media landscape continues to evolve, Ainsley Earhardt’s combination of journalistic integrity, personal warmth, and professional excellence positions her to remain a significant voice in American broadcasting for years to come. Whether discussing politics, interviewing newsmakers, or sharing moments with her daughter, she continues to connect with audiences in meaningful ways that transcend traditional journalism.