Megyn Kelly and Jane Fonda’s Ongoing Feud: A History of Tension
The relationship between former Fox News host Megyn Kelly and actress Jane Fonda has been marked by public disagreements and perceived slights, stemming from a 2017 interview and continuing through 2018. The core of the conflict revolves around accusations of Kelly pursuing uncomfortable lines of questioning and a disagreement over interview boundaries.
The 2017 Interview and Initial Sparks
In September 2017, Fonda and Robert Redford appeared on Megyn Kelly TODAY to promote their Netflix film, “Our Souls at Night.” Prior to the interview, tensions arose behind the scenes. According to Kelly, Redford’s publicist requested she avoid discussing sex scenes from the film, stating Redford was uncomfortable with the topic. Time Magazine reported on this alleged request.
Kelly claimed she honored the request, and instead asked Fonda about her plastic surgery, a topic Fonda had previously discussed publicly. Fonda reportedly took offense to this redirection, seemingly wanting to discuss the film’s intimate scenes. Today.com details this exchange.
Kelly’s Public Comments and Escalation
The feud resurfaced in January 2018 when Kelly publicly labeled Fonda as one of the “meanest” celebrities she had ever met. She recounted the 2017 interview, reiterating Fonda’s apparent frustration with the line of questioning. Time Magazine covered Kelly’s comments.
Kelly further stated that Redford had previously described Fonda as “always a force…she keeps moving forward.”
Fonda’s Initial Response
While Fonda initially slammed Kelly for asking about her plastic surgery during the 2017 interview, she did not directly address Kelly’s “meanest celebrities” comment in subsequent public statements.
Ongoing Tension
The exchange highlights a broader discussion about interview ethics, celebrity boundaries, and the dynamics between interviewers and their subjects. The incident continues to be referenced as an example of contentious interactions within the entertainment industry.