Melissa Francis Net Worth

Melissa Francis: Net Worth, Career, Salary Dispute, and More

Melissa Francis is a multifaceted American personality, known for her work as an actress, television journalist, and author. Over the years, she has captivated audiences with her on-screen presence, insightful reporting, and literary contributions. This comprehensive article delves into Melissa Francis’s net worth, career trajectory, and personal life, offering a detailed look at her journey from a child actor to a prominent figure in the media landscape.

Early Life and Education

Melissa Francis was born on December 12, 1972, in Los Angeles, California. From a young age, she displayed a strong aptitude for academics and a passion for performing. Her educational journey began in Los Angeles, where she excelled in elementary and high school. Simultaneously, she embarked on her acting career, juggling schoolwork and professional engagements. In 1995, she graduated from Harvard University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics, showcasing her commitment to intellectual pursuits alongside her artistic endeavors.

From Child Star to the Screen: Melissa Francis’s Acting Career

Francis’s acting career began when she was just a baby, starring in Johnson & Johnson shampoo commercials at six months old. This early start laid the foundation for a successful career in the entertainment industry. At the age of seven, she made her television debut, appearing in the TV films “Champions: A Love Story” and “Son-Rise: A Miracle of Love” in 1979. From 1979 to 1980, she held a main role in the series “Joe’s World.”

Throughout the 1980s, Francis continued to make guest appearances on various popular television shows. She appeared in episodes of “Mork & Mindy,” “Galactica 1980,” and “When the Whistle Blows” in 1980. Her breakthrough role came in 1981 when she was cast as Cassandra Cooper Ingalls on “Little House on the Prairie.” She remained on the show for two years, gaining widespread recognition and building a dedicated fan base. In 1984, she appeared in the television film “Something About Amelia.” The following year, she took on roles in episodes of “Hotel,” “CBS Schoolbreak Special,” and “St. Elsewhere.”

In 1986, Francis secured a main role in the show “Morningstar/Eveningstar.” She further showcased her versatility by appearing in an episode of “A Year in the Life” in 1988 and “ALF” in 1989. In 1990, she appeared in “Hardball.” Her acting career continued until she enrolled at Harvard University, marking the end of her full-time acting endeavors. During her acting career, she also appeared in almost 100 commercials, demonstrating her ability to connect with audiences across diverse platforms.

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The Transition to News: Francis’s Journalism Journey

Following her graduation from Harvard University, Melissa Francis transitioned from acting to a career in television news. Her early roles included serving as a producer for WCSH-TV in Portland, Maine, a weekend morning anchor and general assignment reporter for WFSB-TV in Hartford, Connecticut, and a general assignment reporter in Providence, Rhode Island and Manchester, New Hampshire. These experiences provided her with a solid foundation in the field of journalism and honed her skills in reporting and storytelling.

Francis’s career took a significant step forward when she became a correspondent for CNET. During her time there, she covered stories related to consumer products, finance, and technology, demonstrating her versatility and ability to navigate complex topics. Her expertise in these areas also led to frequent appearances on CNBC, where she provided insightful reports on consumer trends, financial markets, and technological advancements. In 2003, Francis joined CNBC as an energy and financial reporter, where she covered oil pricing, the corporations and companies operating within the energy sector, and various economic issues affecting energy pricing and consumption, solidifying her position as a knowledgeable voice in the industry.

In 2012, Melissa Francis joined the Fox Business Network, where she became a prominent figure. From 2012 to 2013, she served as a panelist on the series “America Live.” During her tenure at Fox, she was a frequent presence on “Cavuto on Business” and “Your World with Neil Cavuto.” From 2012 to 2015, she hosted her own TV series, “Money with Melissa Francis.” Her career at Fox reached new heights when she became a co-host of the series “Outnumbered” in 2014, and subsequently co-hosted “After the Bell” the following year. Her departure from Fox in 2020 marked a significant shift in her career.

The Fox News Controversy: Salary Dispute and Settlement

Melissa Francis’s departure from Fox News in 2020 was marked by a salary dispute that garnered significant attention. During her time at Fox News, particularly in 2017 when she was promoted to co-host “Outnumbered,” Francis was considered one of the top female stars on Fox Business. Around the time of her promotion, she requested a salary increase, aiming to address the disparity between her earnings and those of her male co-anchors. According to reports, she was earning slightly under $1 million per year, considerably less than her male counterparts. While she received a modest raise, the pay gap persisted, prompting her to take further action.

Determined to address the issue of pay inequity, Francis reportedly began keeping a detailed spreadsheet that documented the salaries of various anchors at Fox News. The findings revealed a consistent pattern of male anchors significantly out-earning their female colleagues. To resolve the dispute, Francis entered into arbitration with Fox News. However, despite these efforts, she was ultimately pushed out of Fox in October 2020. In June 2022, after a period of negotiation and legal proceedings, Melissa Francis was awarded a substantial $15 million settlement from Fox News, bringing the salary dispute to a close.

Author Melissa Francis: Literary Works

In addition to her successful careers in acting and journalism, Melissa Francis is also an accomplished author. In November 2012, she published her first book, “Diary of a Stage Mother’s Daughter: A Memoir.” The book delves into the challenges she faced growing up with an overbearing mother, offering readers a glimpse into her personal experiences. Five years later, in 2017, Francis released her second book, “Lessons from the Prairie.” Inspired by her childhood acting experience on “Little House on the Prairie,” this book explores various aspects of her childhood and how they have shaped her life as an adult. Through her writing, Melissa Francis provides a deeper understanding of her life experiences, and her perspectives on the world around her.

Personal Life and Family

Melissa Francis has been married to Wray Thorn since 1997. The couple met in Boston, as Thorn also attended Harvard University. Together, they have three children: Greyson, Thompson, and Gemma. Due to a rare genetic condition that Francis has, her first two pregnancies were considered high-risk for her health. To expand their family, the couple welcomed their third child, Gemma, via surrogacy. The family resides in New York City, where they enjoy a close-knit family life.