Megyn Kelly and Piers Morgan Tackle Trump Derangement and CNN Defamation Case

Discussing Media Shifts and Trump Derangement Syndrome

In a recent episode of her show, Megyn Kelly hosts Piers Morgan, the face behind 'Piers Morgan Uncensored,' to dive into significant changes in media consumption and the persistent issue of Trump Derangement Syndrome. Posted on January 24, 2025, this conversation on Kelly’s YouTube channel sheds light on Morgan’s bold move to take his digital show independent, creating his own media business. He highlights how younger audiences are reshaping the media landscape by driving massive changes in how content is consumed, moving away from traditional outlets to digital platforms.

At around the 5:30 mark, the discussion turns to what Morgan and Kelly describe as ongoing examples of Trump Derangement Syndrome in media narratives, even early in President Donald J. Trump’s new term. They point out specific instances where media outlets have displayed what they see as irrational bias against the President, reflecting a cultural shift in America that has largely moved past such perspectives. Their conversation underscores a firm stance in support of President Trump, focusing on the need for fair reporting and accountability in journalism during his administration.

Additionally, Morgan and Kelly touch on significant legal settlements involving media organizations. They discuss ABC News agreeing to pay millions to settle a defamation lawsuit related to President Trump, as well as CNN’s recent settlement after being found guilty in a separate defamation case. At the 12:15 point, Morgan questions whether President Trump should consider legal action against news organizations over past narratives like the Russia collusion story, which they label as unfounded.

Zachary Young’s Defamation Battle with CNN

Later in the episode, starting at approximately the 35:40 mark, Kelly welcomes Zachary Young, a U.S. Navy veteran, and his lawyer Vel Freedman to discuss a high-profile defamation case against CNN. Young was awarded a substantial settlement—reported as tens of millions—following a defamatory report aired by CNN. According to Young and Freedman, the network’s report falsely portrayed Young in a negative light, severely impacting his personal and professional life.

Young shares how CNN’s actions, including a report by correspondent Alexander Marquardt, demonstrated what he calls arrogance and a disregard for the truth. Freedman elaborates that internal communications revealed CNN was aware of issues with their reporting on Young before it even aired, yet proceeded regardless. This segment of the discussion emphasizes the real-world consequences of media misrepresentation and the importance of holding powerful outlets accountable for their content.

The case, which concluded with a significant financial penalty for CNN, serves as a cautionary tale for media organizations. Young’s story, as presented in the episode, highlights his determination to clear his name and seek justice after being wronged by a major news network. This settlement is framed as a victory for individuals challenging large media entities, reinforcing the need for integrity in journalism.

Broader Media Critiques and Cultural Observations

Beyond the legal battles, Kelly and Morgan also address other cultural topics during their conversation. Around the 20:10 mark, they delve into a recent Vanity Fair cover story that critiques Meghan Markle and Prince Harry for their perceived failures with Spotify and Netflix ventures. The discussion paints a picture of behind-the-scenes challenges and public perceptions of how the couple manages relationships and business dealings, reflecting broader commentary on celebrity culture in media.

The episode as a whole offers a robust critique of current media practices, from defamation cases to biased reporting against political figures like President Trump. Kelly and Morgan’s dialogue, combined with Young’s firsthand account of battling a media giant, presents a compelling case for reevaluating trust in traditional news sources. Their focus remains on advocating for transparency and fairness, aligning with values of accountability that resonate deeply with audiences seeking truth over sensationalism.

This nearly hour-long discussion on Megyn Kelly’s platform not only addresses specific grievances but also paints a larger picture of a media landscape in flux. With digital platforms gaining traction and legal precedents being set against major networks, the conversation underscores a pivotal moment for journalism. The insights shared by Morgan, Young, and Freedman provide a multi-faceted look at the challenges and opportunities facing media today, urging viewers to question narratives and demand higher standards from those who shape public opinion.