Megyn Kelly’s Comments on Christina Applegate’s MS Misdiagnosis Spark Outrage

Culture

Megyn Kelly has become the subject of widespread criticism following her remarks regarding Christina Applegate‘s recent announcement of an MS misdiagnosis. Applegate, who publicly shared her initial multiple sclerosis diagnosis in August 2021, revealed in October 2023 that her condition was not MS. She is now pursuing a diagnosis for an as-yet-unidentified illness presenting similar symptoms.

Kelly’s comments, which included allegations that Applegate was ‘crying now because she no longer gets to be the face of this disease,’ have been met with strong condemnation from various public figures. The controversy highlights ongoing discussions about celebrity behavior, public discourse, and the sensitive nature of health-related topics.

The View Co-Hosts Respond to Kelly’s Remarks

The co-hosts of ABC’s ‘The View’ were among the most vocal critics of Megyn Kelly’s statements. Whoopi Goldberg directly challenged Kelly’s insinuation, asking, ‘You think Christina wanted to have MS so she could have a good time? Are you crazy?’

Sara Haines echoed Goldberg’s sentiment, questioning, ‘Who wants to be the face of MS?’ Haines further elaborated on Applegate’s situation, stating, ‘She got a diagnosis and wanted to help other people. [She’s] now feeling the pain of not knowing what her identity is and, more importantly, what her diagnosis is.’

Haines also criticized Kelly’s professional trajectory, remarking, ‘Megyn Kelly sold her soul for politics. She literally has sunk so low in my book.’ This comment underscored a broader perception among critics regarding Kelly’s public persona and career choices.

‘Fungus That Thrives on Outrage’

Ana Navarro, a Republican strategist and co-host of ‘The View,’ offered a particularly sharp rebuke of Kelly. Navarro described Kelly as ‘a fungus that thrives on oxygen that she gets by purposely creating outrage’ on sensitive topics. This characterization suggests a deliberate strategy by Kelly to provoke controversy for attention.

Sunny Hostin, an ABC News Legal Analyst and another co-host of ‘The View’ since 2016, joined the chorus of disapproval. Hostin labeled Kelly ‘an ugly person,’ a direct personal attack reflecting the depth of the outrage felt by the panel.

Christina Applegate’s Health Journey

Christina Applegate’s public health journey began in August 2021 when she announced her diagnosis with multiple sclerosis. Her candor about living with the condition garnered significant public attention and support. She became an advocate for others facing similar challenges.

The October 2023 announcement of her MS misdiagnosis introduced a new layer of complexity to her health narrative. Applegate is now navigating the process of identifying the correct illness, a situation that brings its own set of emotional and physical challenges. Her experience underscores the difficulties individuals face when dealing with complex medical conditions and the importance of accurate diagnoses.

Megyn Kelly, currently the host of ‘The Megyn Kelly Show’ on SiriusXM’s Triumph channel and YouTube, launched MK Media in 2025. Her platform reaches millions of subscribers, amplifying the impact of her statements. The controversy surrounding her comments on Applegate’s health has reignited debates about media responsibility and empathy in public discourse. More information on Megyn Kelly’s career can be found on her official website.

The reactions from ‘The View’ co-hosts highlight a broader societal expectation for public figures to approach discussions about personal health with sensitivity and respect. The incident serves as a case study in the rapid spread and intense scrutiny of celebrity commentary in the digital age.

Public figures like Whoopi Goldberg, Sara Haines, Ana Navarro, and Sunny Hostin used their platform on ‘The View’ to challenge what they perceived as a lack of empathy. Their collective response demonstrated a united front against what they characterized as bullying and insensitivity.

The incident also brings into focus the role of media personalities in shaping public opinion and the potential consequences of their words. Kelly’s comments, intended or not, generated significant negative attention and sparked a wider conversation about compassion.

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Christina Applegate’s ongoing search for a correct diagnosis represents a personal and challenging journey. Her willingness to share her experiences continues to resonate with many, offering a relatable perspective on health struggles. Details about Christina Applegate’s career and health journey are often covered by Variety and other entertainment news outlets.

The public outcry. The media scrutiny. The celebrity condemnation.

Outrage.

Sources

Frequently asked questions

Why is Megyn Kelly being criticized?

Megyn Kelly is being criticized for comments she made regarding Christina Applegate's announcement of an MS misdiagnosis. Kelly suggested Applegate was 'crying now because she no longer gets to be the face of this disease,' which many found insensitive and accusatory.

What did Christina Applegate announce about her health?

Christina Applegate announced in October 2023 that she had been misdiagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). She is now seeking a diagnosis for an as-yet-unidentified illness that presents similar symptoms to MS.

Who criticized Megyn Kelly's comments?

Co-hosts of ABC's 'The View' — Whoopi Goldberg, Sara Haines, Ana Navarro, and Sunny Hostin — were prominent critics of Megyn Kelly's remarks. They called her comments 'crazy,' 'bullying,' and described Kelly as a 'fungus that thrives on outrage.'

When was Christina Applegate initially diagnosed with MS?

Christina Applegate was initially diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in August 2021. She publicly shared her journey with the condition before announcing her misdiagnosis in October 2023.

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