Billy Bush Joins Fox News as Contributor
Billy Bush is set to become a contributor for Fox News, debuting on Jesse Watters Primetime. The former Access Hollywood and Today host will bring his celebrity coverage experience to the network, while continuing his own digital ventures. The move follows a controversial incident that left him out…
By Felo News Desk · Published
Billy Bush, the veteran entertainment correspondent best known for his long stint with Access Hollywood, is slated to join Fox News Media as a contributor. The announcement, expected to be made official on Tuesday, will see Bush appear on the network’s flagship late‑night show, Jesse Watters Primetime, during its 8 p.m. hour. In addition to the nightly broadcast, he is anticipated to contribute across multiple Fox News platforms, including the cable channel, the website, and the network’s streaming services.
From Hollywood to the Newsroom
Bush’s career has spanned more than two decades of covering the entertainment industry. After starting as a reporter for Access Hollywood in the early 2000s, he rose to prominence as the East Coast correspondent, providing live updates from award shows, red‑carpet events, and celebrity interviews. His on‑air presence also led to a hosting role on the syndicated daytime program Extra, where he blended hard news with lighter entertainment segments.
In 2015, Bush briefly joined NBC’s flagship morning show, Today, co‑hosting the third hour. The move was short‑lived; a controversial incident involving a 2016 outtake from Access Hollywood would abruptly halt his mainstream media trajectory. The clip, which surfaced in 2017, showed then‑Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump discussing how he could sexually assault women. The footage was leaked by NBCUniversal and published by The Washington Post, leading to Bush’s immediate dismissal from Today and a three‑year hiatus from network television.
Independent Ventures and Resilience
During the period away from network television, Bush reinvented himself as a digital media entrepreneur. He launched Hot Mics with Billy Bush, a weekly online show that covers a wide array of topics—from sports and politics to technology and pop culture. The program has attracted a loyal following, allowing Bush to maintain relevance in the rapidly evolving media landscape.
Despite the setback, Bush has continued to cover major live events. He reported on the Olympics from 2004 through 2016 for NBC, and he provided live coverage of Prince William’s wedding to Catherine Middleton in 2011. His experience also extends to the film and television industry, where he has made cameo appearances and contributed to various projects.
Family Ties and Media Legacy
Bush’s personal background adds another layer to his public persona. He is the nephew of the late President George H. W. Bush, the cousin of former President George W. Bush, and a relative of former Florida Governor Jeb Bush. These family connections have occasionally intersected with his media career, especially during politically charged moments.
What to Expect on Fox News
In a statement released ahead of his debut, Bush expressed enthusiasm about joining the Fox News family. "I’m excited to join Fox News Media and its loyal audience to share my perspective on the people, ideas and moments shaping today’s culture… as well as the ones trying to undo it," he said. He emphasized that his role will involve offering insights into celebrity culture, entertainment trends, and the broader societal shifts that influence public perception.
Fox News, known for its conservative-leaning commentary, has historically focused on political and national security issues. Bush’s addition signals a strategic expansion into entertainment coverage, potentially appealing to viewers who seek a blend of hard news and pop‑culture analysis. His presence on Jesse Watters Primetime will likely provide a fresh angle on celebrity stories, while his digital background may help the network tap into younger audiences.
Next Steps and Unresolved Questions
The exact scope of Bush’s contributions remains to be clarified. While he will appear on the 8 p.m. slot of Jesse Watters Primetime, it is unclear whether he will host a dedicated segment or serve as a recurring guest. Additionally, how his independent show, Hot Mics, will coexist with his Fox News commitments is yet to be determined. Viewers can anticipate a formal announcement later this week, followed by his first on‑air appearance in the coming weeks.
Overall, Bush’s move to Fox News represents a notable shift in the network’s programming strategy, blending traditional news with entertainment journalism. It also marks a personal comeback for a seasoned correspondent who has navigated both the highs of celebrity coverage and the lows of media controversy.
Key facts
- Billy Bush joins Fox News as a contributor on Jesse Watters Primetime
- The move follows a controversial incident that left him out of work for three years
- He will bring his entertainment reporting expertise to the network
- Bush continues his independent digital show, Hot Mics with Billy Bush
- The addition signals Fox News’ expansion into pop‑culture coverage
Why it matters
Billy Bush’s transition to Fox News highlights the network’s intent to broaden its content mix and attract viewers interested in celebrity culture. It also marks a significant career rebound for Bush after a high‑profile setback.
Frequently asked questions
When will Billy Bush appear on Fox News?
His debut is expected to be announced on Tuesday, with his first appearance on Jesse Watters Primetime scheduled for the 8 p.m. slot.
Will Bush host a segment on Fox News?
It is not yet confirmed whether he will host a dedicated segment or serve as a recurring guest; details will be revealed in the upcoming announcement.
Sources
- [1] variety.com — originally reported as “Billy Bush to Join Fox News as Contributor”
