Bill Hemmer is the calm, steady anchor at Fox News who has managed to carve out a remarkable career for himself while staying out of the limelight in comparison to his more outspoken colleagues. Known for his measured approach to news delivery, Hemmer has managed to stay out of controversies while still covering some of the most significant events in modern history. His tenure at Fox News and his previous work at CNN have shaped him into one of the most trusted figures in broadcast journalism.
Bill Hemmer’s Career Journey
Fox News anchor Bill Hemmer. James Pasley / Business Insider
Bill Hemmer’s career at Fox News began in 2005, but his role as the anchor of the 3 p.m. hour-long news show, which he took over in January 2020 from Shepard Smith, marked a significant milestone. Smith, who had resigned after 23 years at Fox, was a major personality on the network, and Hemmer’s decision to take over was a high-stakes move.
Prior to his time at Fox, Hemmer had a lengthy career at CNN, where he became known for his calm and professional delivery of the news. Hemmer’s reporting covered major events such as the Boston Marathon Bombing, the Haiti earthquake, and the Sandy Hook elementary school shooting, as well as countless presidential elections.
A Man Who Chooses His Words Carefully
One of Hemmer’s defining characteristics is his ability to choose his words carefully. Despite working at one of the most politically charged networks in the U.S., Hemmer has remained an unbiased and neutral presence. His approach to the news stands in stark contrast to his colleagues, like Tucker Carlson and Sean Hannity, who often lean into strong political commentary. Hemmer’s more reserved style has earned him respect from both his audience and peers, positioning him as a steady, reliable figure in a highly polarized media environment.
In an interview with Insider in January 2020, Hemmer acknowledged the pressure of taking over Smith’s spot but emphasized that preparation was key. “Well, I want to get it right,” he said. “I’ve felt for a long time that your best preparation — sorry, your best defense — in this industry is your own preparation.” His diligent work ethic and focus on preparation have been key to his success.