Overview

David Shepard Smith Jr., most famously known as Shepard Smith, is a distinguished American broadcast journalist. He gained prominence during his 23-year tenure at Fox News Channel, where he served as chief anchor and managing editor of the breaking news division. During his time there, he hosted programs such as ‘Fox Report,’ ‘Studio B,’ and ‘Shepard Smith Reporting,’ becoming a recognizable face in news television. In July 2020, Smith joined CNBC as chief general news anchor and launched ‘The News with Shepard Smith,’ a primetime news program. Known for his commitment to factual reporting and unbiased journalism, Smith has covered significant events, including Princess Diana’s death, President Bill Clinton’s impeachment trial, and Hurricane Katrina. His career reflects a dedication to seeking and reporting the truth, making him a trusted figure in the media landscape. He is considered old school and believes that contemporary models destroy the essence of trustworthy journalism. He left CNBC in November 2022. Prior to Fox News, Smith worked at various local television stations.

Fox News/CNBC

Chief Anchor/Executive Editor

What Is Shepard Smith’s Net Worth?

Shepard Smith, a prominent American television news anchor, has amassed a net worth of $30 million. His career trajectory, particularly during his tenure at Fox News, has significantly contributed to this financial success. Smith’s departure from Fox News in 2019 marked a pivotal moment, leading him to new ventures with NBC and CNBC. Currently serving as chief general news anchor for CNBC, his financial standing reflects his enduring presence and influence in the news industry. It’s important to note that his net worth is an estimated figure, influenced by various factors including salaries, investments, and property holdings.

Shepard Smith’s Career at Fox News and Beyond

Shepard Smith’s career began with local TV news stations, including an NBC affiliate in Panama City Beach, Florida, and another in Fort Myers. He hosted “A Current Affair” at a Fox News affiliate in Miami, laying the foundation for his later success. His journey with Fox News started in 1996, quickly escalating to reporting on significant global events such as Princess Diana’s death in 1997. In 1998, he gained further recognition for his coverage of Bill Clinton’s impeachment trial. These early assignments were instrumental in establishing his credibility and visibility within the network.

Over the years, Smith became a key figure at Fox News, covering major stories such as the execution of Timothy McVeigh and the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. By 2003, his contributions were vital in helping Fox News achieve third place among cable news programs. A survey at the time indicated that he was among the most trusted news anchors in the United States, tied for second place with Dan Rather and Peter Jennings. His ability to connect with viewers and provide reliable information solidified his position as a leading news personality. In 2013, Shepard took on the role of managing director of the Fox News breaking news division and began hosting “Shepard Smith Reporting,” which further cemented his influence within the network.

Despite signing a new multi-year contract in 2018, Smith’s relationship with Fox News began to fray after the election of Donald Trump in 2016. His departure in 2019 was preceded by criticism from viewers and Trump himself. In 2020, he joined CNBC and launched “The News with Shepard Smith.” He voiced concerns about authoritarian governments suppressing journalists after he left Fox, which many people thought to be a reference to the Trump administration. Apart from journalism, Smith has appeared in films like “Volcano” and documentaries like “Fahrenheit 9/11” and “Bombshell,” usually as a news anchor.

Shepard Smith’s Salary Details

In 2007, Shepard Smith signed a three-year contract with Fox News worth approximately $7.5 million per year. This contract was extended for another three years in 2010. In 2013, Smith renewed his contract with Fox News, signing a multi-year deal with an annual salary of $10 million. By the time he left Fox News in 2019, he was reportedly earning $15 million per year. The details of his compensation at CNBC are not publicly known. These figures provide a clear picture of Smith’s earning power during his time at Fox News, reflecting his value to the network.

Shepard Smith’s Real Estate Investment

In 2017, Shepard Smith listed his condo in New York City for $4.9 million. The apartment, located in “The Greenwich” building in Greenwich Village, spanned 2,341 square feet and included two bedrooms. Smith originally purchased the condo in 2004 for $1.875 million. This wasn’t the first time he had attempted to sell the apartment; it was previously listed for $4 million in 2011. Notable features included 13-foot ceilings, Venetian plaster walls, and dark hardwood floors. “The Greenwich” building has housed other high-profile figures like Peter Norton, Michael Kors, and Jon Stewart. This property represents a significant asset in Smith’s investment portfolio and reflects his ability to invest in high-value real estate.

Shepard Smith’s Personal Life

In 1987, Shepard Smith married Virginia Donald, whom he met at the University of Mississippi. The couple divorced in 1993 after six years of marriage. In 2017, Smith publicly announced that he identifies as homosexual and has been in a relationship with Giovanni Graziano since 2012. While these details do not directly impact his net worth, they provide context to his personal life and public persona.

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