Shep Smith
Edit
Enlarge Image
Career at Fox News and Journalism Foundations
American television journalist David Shepard Smith Jr. is widely recognized for his professionalism, credibility, and strong on-screen presence. He served as the Managing Editor of Fox News Channel's Breaking News Division and was the host of Shepard Smith Reporting from 2013 until his departure from the network in 2019.
Quick Facts
- Birth Date
- 14 Jan, 1964
- Age
- 56 yrs
- Occupations
- Television presenter
Broadcast journalist
Reporter
Show all facts
- Citizenship
- United States of America
- Birth Place
- Holly Springs
- Education
- University of Mississippi
- Gender
- Male
- Description
- American television news anchor
- Net Worth 2021
- 25 million
People Mentioned in This Biography
Smith joined Fox News in 1996 during the network’s launch and quickly became one of its most prominent and recognizable anchors. Before his tenure at Fox, he built his journalism career working for several local television stations including WJHG-TV (Panama City Beach, FL), WCJB-TV (Gainesville, FL), WBBH-TV (Fort Myers, FL), and WCPX-TV (now WKMG-TV) in Orlando, FL. Smith also worked as a correspondent for the syndicated news program A Current Affair.
Notable Coverage and Contributions to Broadcast News
Over nearly three decades in broadcast journalism, Shepard Smith has reported on a wide array of major national and international news stories. His coverage includes high-profile events such as the death and funeral of Princess Diana, the 2000 Florida ballot recount controversy, the execution of Timothy McVeigh, the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, and the unrest in Ukraine.
Known for his clear, fact-based reporting, Smith was often praised for his ability to convey complex stories with accuracy and context, contributing to his reputation as one of the most trusted figures in cable news.
Early Life and Education
David Shepard Smith Jr. was born on January 14, 1964, in Holly Springs, Mississippi, United States. He is the son of a teacher and a cotton merchant. His parents separated when he was in his senior year at a private K–12 academy in Holly Springs. Following the separation, Smith moved to Florida with his mother and brother, where he completed his high school education.
He later attended the University of Mississippi, where he studied journalism. Though he left just a few credits shy of his degree, he went on to complete his education and remains a proud alumnus.
Public Image and Recognitions
Known for his calm demeanor, well-groomed appearance, and journalistic integrity, Smith has long been a respected figure in the media landscape. Standing 6 feet tall, he developed a reputation for his composed presence on air and his dedication to truthful reporting. A 2003 TV Guide poll even ranked him as one of the most trusted news anchors in both cable and network news.
