Up to 20 Women Reportedly Accused Ailes of Harassment
Roger Ailes, the founding CEO of Fox News, the man who made the conservative cable news network into what it is today, is resigning amid a flood of sexual harassment allegations. His resignation is effective immediately, according to a statement released by 21st Century Fox. Rupert Murdoch, head of Fox News’ parent companies, News Corp and 21st Century Fox, will serve as interim head and chairman.
The official statement makes no mention of the sexual harassment claims, which were first brought to light in a lawsuit filed by former “Fox & Friends” co-host Gretchen Carlson weeks after her contract expired.Â
“Roger Ailes has made a remarkable contribution to our company and our country. Roger shared my vision of a great and independent television organization and executed it brilliantly over 20 great years,” Rupert Murdoch, Executive Chairman, 21st Century Fox, said in a statement. “Fox News has given voice to those who were ignored by the traditional networks and has been one of the great commercial success stories of modern media.”
News has been brewing much of the week that Ailes’ departure was imminent, after a report by New York Magazine’s Gabriel Sherman. Several outlets had reported on Tuesday that Ailes was already gone, only to walk those statements back. Insiders say the delay was due to the very language that would be used in the official press release.Â
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