After more than two decades delivering forecasts to millions of viewers, Fox News meteorologist Janice Dean is stepping away from her role on Fox & Friends, citing the progression of her multiple sclerosis and the physical demands of the job.
Dean announced her decision Thursday in a video message posted on X, explaining that the early mornings and rigorous schedule had become increasingly difficult to manage as her symptoms advanced.
“For a long time, I was able to handle the early mornings, the many hours on my feet, and the stress of broadcasting live,” Dean said. “Getting up at 2:30 in the morning” had become especially challenging, “especially for someone who has multiple sclerosis.”
She said that after consulting with her doctors, it became clear that stepping away was the right decision.
“Ultimately, my symptoms progressed to the point that I can no longer continue working in my role, and my doctors agreed that stepping away was necessary for my health,” she said.
Dean revealed that she has spent more than two decades managing the disease since receiving an early diagnosis.
“Thankfully, I was diagnosed early, and I’ve been on different therapies for over the last two decades,” she said. “But there’s no cure for MS, and over time, my symptoms have progressed.”
Despite the difficult announcement, Dean maintained the upbeat attitude viewers have come to associate with her broadcasts.
I know so many of you have been wondering where I’ve been. Please know I’ve read your comments, prayers and words of support and kindness. It meant the world to me.
Goodbyes are hard. But they are necessary before you can meet again…
Love,
JD ☀️
 pic.twitter.com/S3moZdN5HN— Janice Dean (@JaniceDean) June 25, 2026
She described her departure as her “mostly sunny goodbye,” adding, “For every goodbye, there’s always the next hello.”
Fox News praised Dean’s long career in a statement following the announcement.
“Throughout her 22-year career with Fox News Media, Janice Dean has inspired viewers with her warmth, resilience, and dedication,” a network spokesperson said. “Her willingness to share her personal journeys has touched countless lives and served as a source of strength and encouragement to many.”
The network also expressed support for her decision.
“We fully support Janice’s courageous decision to step away from her role as senior meteorologist on Fox & Friends and are grateful for her many contributions,” the spokesperson added.
Dean has been one of Fox News’ most recognizable personalities since joining the network more than 20 years ago. In addition to providing weather coverage, she has spoken publicly about living with multiple sclerosis, using her platform to raise awareness about the disease and encourage others facing similar diagnoses.
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the central nervous system. Symptoms vary widely from person to person and can include fatigue, muscle weakness, mobility challenges, vision problems, cognitive changes, and speech difficulties.
Dr. Saud Sadiq, chief research scientist at the Tisch MS Research Center of New York and founder of the International Multiple Sclerosis Management Practice, said the disease affects every patient differently.
“MS can affect cognition, fatigue, mobility, vision, and speech,” Sadiq told the New York Post. “For some people, these symptoms are well-managed and have minimal impact on their work. For others, particularly as the disease progresses, the cumulative burden can become more significant.”
He emphasized that decisions about employment are highly individualized.
“That calculus is deeply personal and depends on disease course, treatment response, and a host of other individual factors,” he said.
Sadiq also cautioned against assuming what someone with multiple sclerosis can or cannot do based solely on the diagnosis.
“What I would caution against is making assumptions in either direction—about what someone with MS can or cannot do—based on a diagnosis alone,” he said.
