21th Century Fox settles a suit and it could be the tip of the iceberg
By: Jim Williams – Columnist News Talk Florida
WASHINGTON – 21st Century Fox has agreed to a multi-million – dollar settlement, (reportedly as much as $20 million), with former news anchor Gretchen Carlson, who charged she was sexually harassed by former Fox News CEO Roger Ailes.
“21st Century Fox is pleased to announce that it has settled Gretchen Carlson’s lawsuit,” the company said in a statement. “During her tenure at Fox News, Gretchen exhibited the highest standards of journalism and professionalism. She developed a loyal audience and was a daily source of information for many Americans. We are proud that she was part of the Fox News team. We sincerely regret and apologize for the fact that Gretchen was not treated with the respect and dignity that she and all of our colleagues deserve.”
Citing sources familiar with the details of the settlement, Vanity Fair reported Carlson would receive $20 million along with the public apology. A source familiar with the confidential settlement also confirmed that amount to The Associated Press.
According to a document filed today in the United States District Court District of New Jersey, Carlson voluntarily dismissed her case against Roger Ailes with prejudice on Tuesday.
“I am gratified that 21st Century Fox took decisive action after I filed my complaint,” Carlson said in a statement. “I’m ready to move on to the next chapter of my life in which I will redouble my efforts to empower women in the workplace. I want to thank all the brave women who came forward to tell their own stories and the many people across the country who embraced and supported me in their #StandWithGretchen. All women deserve a dignified and respectful workplace in which talent, hard work and loyalty are recognized, revered and rewarded.”
Ailes was ousted as chief executive at Fox News Channel in July after running the network he built from scratch for nearly 20 years. Carlson alleged Ailes sabotaged her career after she refused his suggestions for sex and complained about a pervasive atmosphere of sexual harassment at Fox.
Ailes has steadfastly denied the allegations.
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