Joy Allison Taylor, born on January 17, 1987, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a prominent American media personality and television host renowned for her work with Fox Sports 1 (FS1). She has made significant contributions to sports broadcasting, earning recognition for her insightful commentary and dynamic presence.
Early life and education
Taylor was born to Anthony and Georgia Taylor and is the younger sister of former NFL defensive end Jason Taylor. She pursued higher education at Barry University, where she graduated in 2009 with a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Communications. During her time at Barry University, Taylor showcased her passion for broadcasting by hosting her own radio show, “The Noise,” and serving as the station manager for WBRY 1640 AM.
Career beginnings and advancement at Fox Sports
Taylor’s journey into sports media began while she was a student at Barry University in Miami, Florida. During her time there, she was actively involved in the university’s radio station, WBRY 1640 AM. She not only hosted her own show, “The Noise,” but also managed the station. This early experience laid the foundation for her future career in broadcasting.
After graduating with a degree in Broadcast Communications in 2009, Taylor moved on to work at 790 AM The Ticket, a prominent sports radio station in Miami. Initially, she took on the role of an executive producer, which involved overseeing the production aspects of various shows. However, her talents soon led to her becoming a co-host on the popular “Zaslow and Joy Show.” This role allowed her to develop her on-air personality and build a strong following in the Miami sports community.
In March 2016, Taylor made a significant career move by joining Fox Sports. Her first major role was as the moderator for the popular debate show “Skip and Shannon: Undisputed,” which featured Skip Bayless and Shannon Sharpe. This position required her to navigate heated discussions between the two outspoken personalities, ensuring that the conversations remained engaging and respectful. Her ability to manage these debates effectively showcased her professionalism and poise under pressure.
In 2018, Taylor transitioned to another prominent Fox Sports program, “The Herd with Colin Cowherd.” As a key contributor to the show, she provided analysis and insights on various sports topics, often engaging in lively debates with Colin Cowherd. Her ability to hold her own in these discussions further established her credibility as a sports commentator. This role allowed her to expand her reach and engage with a broader audience across the sports landscape.
In 2021, Taylor achieved a significant milestone by launching her own show, “The Joy Taylor Show,” on Fox Sports Radio. This marked a major step in her career, as she was now hosting her own program, where she could focus on topics and guests of her choice. The show allowed her to explore a wide range of sports-related issues and interview prominent figures in the sports world. This opportunity not only highlighted her growth as a broadcaster but also demonstrated Fox Sports’ confidence in her abilities.
In 2022, Taylor expanded her role at Fox Sports by co-hosting “Speak” on FS1. This show provided a platform for her to delve into deeper discussions on sports and culture, often tackling complex issues and featuring high-profile guests. Her involvement in “Speak” further solidified her position as a leading voice in sports media.
Personal life
Taylor’s personal life has intersected with her professional endeavors. In September 2018, she became engaged to former NBA point guard and head coach Earl Watson; however, the couple parted ways in November 2019.
In January 2025, Taylor was named in a lawsuit filed by former Fox Sports hairstylist Noushin Faraji, alleging sexual and workplace harassment involving multiple parties at Fox Sports. The lawsuit includes serious allegations that have garnered significant media attention.
Relationship with Emmanuel Acho
The allegations regarding Taylor’s relationship with Emmanuel Acho stem from a lawsuit filed by a former hairstylist at Fox Sports, Noushin Faraji. According to the lawsuit, Faraji claims that Joy Taylor engaged in a romantic relationship with Emmanuel Acho, a former NFL player and current Fox Sports host, in 2020. The lawsuit suggests that this relationship was used by Taylor to secure a position on a Fox Sports program, implying that she leveraged her personal connection to advance her career.
It’s important to note that neither Joy Taylor nor Emmanuel Acho has publicly confirmed or denied these allegations. The lawsuit primarily focuses on Faraji’s claims of being unfairly terminated from her position at Fox Sports, with the allegations about Taylor and Acho being part of a broader narrative about workplace dynamics and favoritism.
Fox Sports 1 lawsuit
The lawsuit involving Taylor and Fox Sports is part of a broader legal action filed by a former hairstylist, Noushin Faraji, against several high-profile figures at Fox Sports, including Skip Bayless and executive vice president Charlie Dixon. Faraji alleges that Joy Taylor engaged in romantic relationships with both Dixon and Emmanuel Acho, a former NFL player, to advance her career. The lawsuit also accuses Taylor of dismissing Faraji’s concerns about workplace harassment and making derogatory comments about her accent and coping mechanisms for PTSD126.
The lawsuit paints a picture of a hostile work environment at Fox Sports, with allegations of sexual harassment, retaliation, and wrongful termination. Faraji claims she was subjected to unwanted advances by Bayless and alleges that Taylor benefited professionally from her relationships with influential figures at the network57.
Taylor has not publicly commented on these allegations, and the lawsuit is ongoing.
Philanthropy and advocacy
Beyond her broadcasting career, Taylor is known for her advocacy on various social issues. She has been vocal about her experiences with domestic violence, using her platform to raise awareness and support for survivors.
Conclusion
Taylor’s career trajectory from her early days in Miami radio to becoming a prominent figure on national television exemplifies her dedication, versatility, and passion for sports journalism. Her contributions continue to influence the landscape of sports media, inspiring many aspiring broadcasters.
