In a wide-ranging interview on the Tucker Carlson Show released today, former Fox News host Megyn Kelly staunchly defended her refusal to publicly condemn figures like Tucker Carlson and Candace Owens, who have faced accusations of promoting conspiracy theories and antisemitic views. Kelly's comments come amid ongoing divisions within conservative circles over issues of free speech, foreign policy, and allegations of antisemitism, with some critics labeling her as having "gone full antisemite" for her positions.
During the discussion, which also covered topics like U.S. intervention in Venezuela and media biases, Kelly addressed demands from critics, including Ben Shapiro and others in pro-Israel advocacy groups, that she distance herself from Carlson and Owens. She described these pressures as attempts to control her relationships and opinions.
"I'd rather die than do that," Kelly said, referring to calls for her to denounce conspiracy theorists and antisemites. "Now that they've made that the stakes on my friendship with them, I really won't do it now." Carlson responded with laughter, and the conversation continued on the theme of resisting what Kelly called "bullies" in the media and political spheres.
Kelly elaborated on her stance, arguing that friendships should not hinge on political litmus tests. She recounted a text exchange with Shapiro, where he reportedly said their friendship was too important to depend on associations with others, only for him to later call her a "coward" at a Turning Point USA event for not severing ties. "Either am convinced now more than ever that there is a crew whom everything revolves around Israel," she said, suggesting that unwavering support for Israel has become a non-negotiable demand in some conservative factions. She expressed frustration with "Israel firsters" demanding total loyalty and mocked her critics, drawing online fire from conservatives accusing her of antisemitism, while supporters hailed her for challenging pressures fracturing the right-wing coalition.
The interview highlighted Kelly's growing skepticism toward longstanding media narratives on Israel and foreign policy. She admitted to re-evaluating her views, questioning how much of the pro-Israel messaging she encountered during her time at Fox News was "spoon-fed" without room for dissent. Kelly emphasized her support for Israel's right to defend itself post-October 7, 2023, but criticized what she sees as excessive censorship of critics.
Kelly also defended Owens amid the conservative backlash over Owens' unproven theories suggesting possible Israel-linked involvement in the September 10, 2025, shooting death of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Authorities charged 22-year-old Tyler James Robinson with the politically motivated murder, backed by DNA, prints, and confessions, with no evidence of conspiracy found by investigators. Kelly stated she is "sick of this BS" and affirmed her right to question potential alignments with Israel, while noting she believes Robinson likely acted alone or with groups like "Trans Tifa." She refused to condemn Owens, saying, "You don't like her? Don't click on her face."
