Shepard Smith, American television journalist

David Shepard Smith Jr., born on January 14, 1964, is a highly respected American broadcast journalist renowned for his commitment to fact-based reporting. He currently serves as the chief general news anchor for NBC News and CNBC, where he also hosts The News with Shepard Smith, a daily evening newscast that launched in late September 2020. This program is specifically designed to deliver objective, data-driven news, providing a clear and factual account of the day's significant events in an often-complex media landscape.

Smith’s career is most prominently associated with his extensive 23-year tenure at Fox News Channel, a network he joined at its very inception in October 1996. During his time at Fox News, he became a foundational figure, serving as chief anchor and managing editor of the breaking news division. He was widely recognized for his steadfast adherence to traditional journalistic principles, delivering straightforward news coverage often in sharp contrast to the network's burgeoning opinion programming. His commitment to reporting verified facts earned him a unique position within the organization. Smith anchored several of the network’s flagship news programs, including Fox Report, Studio B, and Shepard Smith Reporting, covering major national and international breaking stories with a distinct emphasis on clarity and accuracy.

His departure from Fox News in October 2019 was a significant event in the media world, drawing considerable attention and speculation. Smith himself provided a candid explanation for his exit in a 2021 interview with Christiane Amanpour on her eponymous CNN program. During this revealing discussion, he unequivocally stated that his continued presence at the network had become "untenable." He specifically attributed this to the "falsehoods" and "lies" that were, in his words, "intentionally spread" on the network's opinion-based shows. This powerful admission highlighted a deep-seated philosophical disagreement regarding journalistic ethics and the integrity of information disseminated on the platform.

His subsequent move to NBC News and CNBC marked a strategic return to a mainstream news environment where his reporting style is well-aligned with the networks' commitment to factual presentation. The News with Shepard Smith embodies this commitment, aiming to cut through noise and deliver verifiable information, reinforcing his enduring reputation as a journalist dedicated to delivering objective truths to the public. The program plays a crucial role in providing a reliable source for daily news, particularly for audiences seeking unvarnished facts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shepard Smith

When was Shepard Smith born?
Shepard Smith was born on January 14, 1964.
What is Shepard Smith's current role?
He is currently the chief general news anchor for NBC News and CNBC, and hosts the daily evening newscast, The News with Shepard Smith.
How long did Shepard Smith work at Fox News?
Shepard Smith worked at Fox News Channel for 23 years, from its launch in 1996 until October 2019.
Why did Shepard Smith leave Fox News?
In a 2021 interview, Shepard Smith stated that his presence at Fox News became "untenable" due to "falsehoods" and "lies" intentionally spread on the network's opinion shows.
What programs did Shepard Smith host at Fox News?
He hosted several prominent programs at Fox News, including Fox Report, Studio B, and Shepard Smith Reporting.