Gretchen Carlson settles her sexual harassment lawsuit against Fox News
It’s a big day for actual news at the Fox News Corporation today, as Politico reports that former Fox And Friends co-host Gretchen Carlson has settled her sexual harassment lawsuit with 21st Century Fox. Carlson filed suit in July, alleging that she was subjected to a hostile work environment while she was in FNC’s employ. Not only did Carlson claim she was treated like a second-class citizen by Steve Doocy, but she also had to endure all the “fun” sexist jokes made by Brian Kilmeade and others.
When Carlson complained about the sexual harassment to former Fox News chairman and CEO Roger Ailes, he just responded in kind, first by ordering her to “get along with the boys,” then by outright propositioning her. Ailes resigned from Fox News after being ousted by the media company, but Fox News has reportedly settled with Carlson on his behalf for $20 million. Fox is also expected to issue an “unprecedented” public apology to Carlson.
In tangentially-related news—insofar as they worked for the same media conglomerate—Deadline reports that Greta Van Susteren has left Fox News over a “financial disagreement.” Fox News execs issued the following terse statement about her departure: “We are grateful for Greta’s many contributions over the years and wish her continued success.” Brit Hume will host On The Record going forward.