Jane Skinner Goodell: 7 Surprising Facts About The Former Fox News Anchor And Her New Power Role In The NFL
Complete Biography and Profile of Jane Skinner Goodell
Jane Skinner Goodell is an American former daytime news anchor, journalist, and accomplished documentary producer. She is perhaps most widely known for her decade-long career at the Fox News Channel (FNC) and for her marriage to one of the most powerful figures in professional sports, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. Her career is marked by a steady progression, starting in local news markets before ascending to national television.
- Full Name: Jane Skinner Goodell
- Date of Birth: February 12, 1967
- Age (as of December 2025): 58
- Place of Birth: Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
- Nationality: American
- Education: Northwestern University (B.A. in English), University of Wisconsin-Madison (M.A. in Journalism)
- Father: Samuel K. Skinner (former U.S. Secretary of Transportation and White House Chief of Staff under President George H.W. Bush)
- Spouse: Roger Goodell (married 1997)
- Children: Twin Daughters (born 2001)
- Notable Career Roles: Daytime News Anchor at Fox News Channel (co-host of Happening Now), General Assignment Reporter, Television Producer.
- Current Focus: Documentary and TV series production, highlighting women in sports.
Skinner’s family background is also notable; her father, Samuel K. Skinner, served in high-profile political roles, giving her a unique perspective on public life from a young age. This foundation likely contributed to her interest in journalism and public affairs, setting the stage for a career that would eventually take her to the national stage in New York City.
The Rise to National Prominence at Fox News Channel
Jane Skinner's journey in journalism began far from the bright lights of New York. She started her career as a reporter for KBJR in Duluth, Minnesota, before moving through various local television markets, including St. Louis. This groundwork provided her with the essential skills of a general assignment reporter, covering everything from local politics to breaking news stories.
Her big break came when she joined the Fox News Channel (FNC) in 1998. Over the next twelve years, Skinner established herself as a reliable and familiar face on daytime television. She served as a general assignment reporter before transitioning into an anchor role.
Her most prominent position was co-hosting the popular daytime news program Happening Now, alongside Jon Scott. During her time at FNC, she covered major events, including presidential elections and significant breaking news stories, solidifying her reputation as a skilled and composed anchor. Her professional acumen was evident, and she was consistently one of FNC's top-rated daytime personalities.
In 2010, Skinner made the decision to step down from her co-anchor position on Happening Now and retire from broadcast journalism. The primary reason for this career change was a desire to spend more time with her family, particularly her twin daughters. This move demonstrated a commitment to balancing her personal life with her high-profile career, a decision that resonated with many working professionals.
From Anchor Desk to Co-Executive Producer: Highlighting Women in Sports
While Jane Skinner retired from *in front* of the camera, she did not step away from media entirely. Her post-broadcasting career has been marked by a significant and impactful pivot to television production, specifically focusing on the intersection of media, sports, and gender equality. This transition allowed her to utilize her extensive experience in news production while championing a cause she felt passionate about.
Her most recent and notable professional endeavor is her work as a co-executive producer on projects that highlight the lives and careers of groundbreaking women within the sports industry, particularly the NFL. This focus is a direct result of her unique position as the wife of the NFL Commissioner, giving her unparalleled access and insight into the inner workings of the league.
The Impact of 'Earnin' It: The NFL's Forward Progress'
The flagship project of this new chapter is the podcast and television series, Earnin' It: The NFL's Forward Progress. Jane Skinner Goodell served as Co-Executive Producer for this series, which aired between 2019 and 2022. The series was a critical success, shedding light on the female professionals who are breaking barriers and making significant contributions to the historically male-dominated world of American football.
The project covered a wide range of roles, from coaches and executives to officials and scouts, proving that the NFL's forward progress is intrinsically linked to the inclusion and success of women. By taking on this behind-the-scenes role, Skinner was able to use her journalistic skills—research, interviewing, and narrative shaping—to create a powerful and positive message. This work has positioned her as a key advocate for the "Next Woman Up" movement within the sports landscape.
Life in the Public Eye: Family and Football
Despite her husband's high-profile role, the Goodell family has largely managed to keep their personal lives private. Jane and Roger Goodell married in 1997 and are parents to twin daughters born in 2001. Jane has often spoken about the challenges and rewards of raising a family while her husband manages the complexities of one of the world's largest sports leagues.
Her recent public appearances, such as joining the NFL Network's *Good Morning Football* (GMFB) to discuss the balance of family and football, show that she remains connected to the industry and the media world. Her ability to navigate the worlds of high-level journalism, behind-the-scenes production, and the intense scrutiny that comes with being an NFL power spouse makes Jane Skinner Goodell a compelling and multifaceted figure whose influence extends far beyond the news desk she once anchored.
Her current chapter as a producer and advocate solidifies her legacy not just as a former news anchor, but as a media professional committed to telling stories that matter, particularly those that advance the narrative of women in leadership and professional sports.
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