Charissa Thompson firmly shut down rumors about her departure from Fox Sports, confirming her commitment to the network where she has worked since age 22, despite her contract ending after the 2024 NFL season.
At a Glance
- Charissa Thompson addressed false headlines claiming she was leaving Fox Sports during her “Calm Down” podcast on April 24, 2025
- Thompson’s current contract with Fox Sports expires after the 2024 NFL season
- She hosts “Fox NFL Kickoff” and Amazon Prime Video’s “Thursday Night Football” pregame show
- Thompson emphasized her strong relationship with Fox, describing it as “family”
- Her podcast co-host Erin Andrews also has a contract ending this offseason
Thompson Dispels Exit Rumors
Fox Sports broadcaster Charissa Thompson took to her “Calm Down” podcast to address circulation of false headlines suggesting she was departing from the network. The rumors had become widespread enough that even her family members were concerned about her employment status. During the April 24 episode, Thompson introduced a segment specifically to address these claims, making it clear she had no intention of leaving the network she’s called home for most of her broadcasting career.
“No, I am not leaving Fox. I was never leaving Fox,” Thompson stated firmly during the podcast episode. “I’m like ‘why is this headline out here?’ It’s crazy… I wouldn’t normally address this… but I was never leaving Fox. I’m not fired… I hope I die at [Fox].”
The timing of these rumors is particularly notable as Thompson’s current contract with Fox Sports is set to expire after the conclusion of the 2024 NFL season. However, she made no mention during the podcast about whether she has already agreed to terms on a new contract with the network.
Fox as Family
Thompson’s relationship with Fox Sports extends beyond a typical employment arrangement. She has consistently described the network as feeling like family, a sentiment she reinforced during a February 2025 podcast following the Super Bowl in New Orleans. The broadcaster praised the network for how it treated her family members who attended the championship game, highlighting the inclusive culture at Fox.
“I just have to say one thing — and this is also what I am going on and on about Fox, and I swear, I mean it’s not just because my contract’s up — I love Fox so much because my brother and my dad came to the Super Bowl, and Fox is family to me, so my own family like sharing in those moments,” said Thompson.
Thompson expanded on those feelings, adding: “It was so fun, and Fox just makes them feel so welcome and makes sure they’re included in the events and everything. So I just would be remiss if I didn’t mention how wonderful my extended work family is to my own family.”
Dual Broadcasting Roles
Currently, Thompson maintains high-profile positions across two major sports broadcasting platforms. She serves as the host of “Fox NFL Kickoff” and holds responsibilities for several NFL Films segments on Fox. Additionally, she hosts the pregame show for Amazon Prime Video’s “Thursday Night Football.” These dual roles have established her as one of the most recognizable faces in NFL broadcasting.
Thompson isn’t the only Fox Sports personality facing contract questions. Her podcast co-host and close friend Erin Andrews also has a contract expiring this offseason. Both broadcasters have frequently discussed their appreciation for the network’s family-like atmosphere during their podcast episodes, suggesting a mutual desire to continue their tenures with Fox Sports.
Past Controversy
Thompson’s career hasn’t been without challenges. In 2023, she faced significant criticism after admitting on a podcast that early in her career as a sideline reporter, she “made up a report” when unable to get information from coaches. Following the backlash, Thompson clarified her comments on Instagram, explaining that she never attributed fabricated quotes to coaches or players.
Both Amazon’s NFL on Prime Video and Fox Sports declined to comment on the controversy at the time. Despite this previous incident, Thompson’s position at Fox appears secure based on her recent statements, and she has expressed a clear intention to continue her broadcasting career with the network that she joined at age 22.
