Jennifer Eckhart, Former Fox Business Producer and Ed Henry Accuser, Dies at 36

Key points

Eckhart was found dead in the bathtub of her Hobe Sound, Florida, home on Sept. 19 by her mother, who contacted authorities.

The Martin County Sheriff's Office reported a large laceration to her throat and a folding pocketknife nearby; she was pronounced dead at 11:57 a.m.

Law enforcement sources cited by TMZ and confirmed by the sheriff's office ruled the death a suicide, though the official cause of death was not immediately released in the initial report.

Eckhart worked at Fox Business from 2013 to 2020, filing a complaint against Ed Henry in June 2020 that led to his termination in July 2020.

She settled her civil lawsuit against Henry in June 2025, describing the five-year legal battle as 'exhaustive' and 'retraumatizing.'

After leaving Fox, Eckhart launched the podcast 'REINVENTED' and founded The Reinvented Project, a nonprofit using animal-assisted therapy for trauma survivors.

Background

Eckhart’s death follows a series of legal and personal challenges. In 2020, she accused Henry of rape and sexual misconduct, leading to his firing by Fox News. A federal court dismissed her claims against Fox News in 2025, finding the network had not known of the alleged conduct. Eckhart also faced a battery charge in June 2025, which was later dropped. Her advocacy work focused on helping trauma survivors rebuild their lives, a theme central to her podcast and nonprofit.

How outlets are covering it

USA Today and Deadline reported the basic facts of the death, citing the Martin County Sheriff's Office incident report. TMZ and Hola emphasized the suicide ruling, citing law enforcement sources. Hola provided additional context on Eckhart’s post-Fox advocacy, including her founding of The Reinvented Project and her 2025 arrest, which was later dismissed. All sources agree on the timeline of her career at Fox and the 2020 lawsuit against Henry, but differ in emphasis: USA Today and Deadline focus on the legal history, while Hola highlights her advocacy and personal struggles.

Why it matters

Eckhart’s death underscores the long-term impact of high-profile sexual assault cases in media. Her case highlighted the challenges survivors face in seeking accountability and the emotional toll of prolonged legal battles. Her advocacy work aimed to support others through trauma, making her death a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by survivors.

What to watch

No further legal proceedings are expected, as the lawsuit was settled in 2025. The Martin County Sheriff's Office may release additional details on the cause of death. Eckhart’s podcast and nonprofit may continue under the guidance of her team or family, though no immediate announcements have been made.