‘Fox & Friends’ Lawrence Jones Explains Reason for Sudden Absence

Fox & Friends co-host Lawrence Jones took to social media on Thursday (August 20) to explain his sudden absence from the network this week.

In a statement shared to his X account, Jones revealed he sustained another detached retina, which required surgery. “Hey family, you may have noticed my recent absence,” he wrote. “I’ve been open about my eye surgery due to a retinal tear. However, I later discovered that this was caused by a childhood sports injury.”

He continued, “Regrettably, I’ve sustained another retina detachment, which is common after the initial tear. Yesterday, I underwent surgery again with the best care team. I want to express my deepest gratitude to my colleagues, Fox management, and our audience for their unwavering support during this challenging time.”

Jones concluded his post by telling his followers, “I’m optimistic that I’ll be back soon!”

Hey family,

You may have noticed my recent absence. I’ve been open about my eye surgery due to a retinal tear. However, I later discovered that this was caused by a childhood sports injury. Regrettably, I’ve sustained another retina detachment, which is common after the initial…

— Lawrence Jones III (@LawrenceBJones3) August 20, 2026

The 33-year-old political commentator previously underwent eye surgery back in January to repair a detached retina. After fans worried about his absence, Jones assured them he was “doing well,” revealing, “I recently underwent eye surgery and will be returning to work soon.”

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At the time, Jones told People that he initially avoided seeing a doctor about his vision issues. “I just thought my vision just wasn’t being the best,” he shared. “I’m a pretty holistic person who really just focuses on trying to avoid the typical ways of medicine. Many of us, I think, avoid doctors’ offices in general. I’m not that extreme, but I just didn’t think it was necessary for me to go.”

Eventually, a friend encouraged him to visit a specialist. “And I’m glad I did because it ended up being something more serious,” he recalled. “I went in for the appointment, and three hours later, they told me that I had a retina detachment and they wanted me to get surgery done as soon as possible.”

Jones previously returned to Fox & Friends while still healing from his first eye surgery. “I kind of made the decision that it’s okay for the audience to see this healing journey,” he told the outlet. “I think there’s just something about letting the audience see your raw, true self, even when you’re not at the top of your game.”

In September 2023, Jones became a permanent co-host on Fox and Friends, making the then-30-year-old the youngest Black co-host on cable news. He co-hosts the show alongside Brian Kilmeade and Ainsley Earhardt. Jones previously anchored Lawrence Jones Cross Country from 2022 to 2023.