Janice Dean, the “Fox & Friends” meteorologist and host, announced she will step away from work and social media for a period to address some health concerns while leaning on family and rest.
Janice Dean shared a short, direct update with her audience saying, “I wanted to let you all know that I’m taking a break from work (and social media) for a bit.” The message landed quickly and simply: she needs time away to focus on recovery and healing.
In a follow-up she wrote, “I’m ok, but I’ve had some health issues that require rest and time to heal. My bosses at Fox have been kind and understanding, and I feel blessed to be able to take a break to be with my family,” which made it clear the decision is about recuperation, not drama. That combination of reassurance and reality set the tone for her announcement.
Dean also offered a personal note about a recent trip, writing, “The trip to Rome with [husband] Sean was a good place to start healing spiritually, and now I have to get back to feeling healthy and strong. I’ve always been up front and honest about my life, and I felt I owed you an explanation of my absence. But, I will be back. Grateful to you all for the kind words.” Her words emphasized both gratitude and a commitment to return when she’s ready.
She is 55 and has lived with a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis since 2005, though she did not specify whether the current health issues are directly related to that condition. Nor did she give a timeline for how long she will be away, leaving fans and colleagues to wait on updates as she focuses on recovery.
Followers responded with warmth and concern, and Dean replied in kind: “You guys made me cry! (A good cry!) I promise to get lots of rest and take good care of myself. I appreciate all these beautiful words.” That public exchange showed a genuine connection between her and her audience during a vulnerable moment.
Multiple sclerosis affects people differently; some face severe debilitation while others manage symptoms effectively with medication and therapy. Dean’s public presence over the years has reflected both the unpredictable nature of the disease and the ways treatments can help people maintain active, meaningful lives.
Her experience with symptoms began in 2005, when overwhelming fatigue and numbness in her thighs and in the soles of her feet drove her to seek medical care. That early episode led to the official diagnosis and shaped much of how she has talked about health, work, and resilience since then.
Over time Dean has become an outspoken member of the MS community, sharing her own setbacks and victories while offering support to others facing similar challenges. Her willingness to talk openly has made her a familiar figure for people who want both information and empathy from someone living with the condition.
Reflecting on why she shares so openly, Dean said in 2023, “It’s important for me to share my journey so that I can maybe help someone else,” and that conviction continues to come through in her statements now. The line captures why she has repeatedly chosen transparency over privacy when it comes to her health.
Her career at the network began shortly before the diagnosis; back in 2005, just a year after Dean began working for Fox News, she confronted those first alarming symptoms while building her on-air role. That timing meant she had to balance a rising media profile with a new, life-changing medical reality.
Friends, colleagues, and viewers have expressed support, and she noted that network executives have been accommodating as she pauses to recover. While specifics about the nature of the health issue remain private, the response has been steady and personal, reflecting both concern and respect for her need to step away.
For now, Dean plans to rest, rely on family, and focus on healing, with the promise that she intends to return when she is ready. The focus on recovery is clear, and her updates will likely remain concise and centered on wellbeing as she takes the time she needs.
