Fox News announced its decision to sever ties with Tucker Carlson, the right-wing extremist who had been a prime-time host and significantly influenced the Republican Party.
The announcement on April 24 took the media and political worlds by surprise. The Fox network thanked Carlson for his years of service as a popular anchor and a contributor, but the statement did not explain his termination, only mentioning that he hosted his last show on Friday, April 21.
Fox Corporation CEO Lachlan Murdoch and Fox News CEO Suzanne Scott decided to fire Carlson on Friday evening, according to a person familiar with the matter. Carlson, who did not respond to requests for comment, was informed of the decision on Monday morning.
The declaration came a week after Fox News settled Dominion Voting Systems’ $787.5 million defamation lawsuit over the network’s pushing of election lies, which exposed the right-wing news anchor insulting colleagues.
Abby Grossberg, Carlson’s show’s former top booker, filed a lawsuit in March that included allegations of sexism on the show. She alleged that Carlson’s show team engaged in widespread sexism and misogyny.
During his time as a prime-time Fox News host, Carlson had a lot of influence in the GOP. He promoted conspiracy theories and radical rhetoric, repeatedly sowing doubt about the legitimacy of the 2020 election, promoting conspiracy theories about the Covid-19 vaccines, and elevating white nationalist talking points.
Some of Carlson’s private messages were revealed during the Dominion lawsuit, including one where he declared his hate for former President Donald Trump.
Jonathan Greenblatt, head of the Anti-Defamation League, praised Fox News’ decision, saying that Carlson had used his prime-time show to spew hate to millions.
Some of Carlson’s internal critics inside Fox News were relieved to learn of the news, hoping for a culture change. The network stated that rotating hosts would fill Carlson’s 8 pm time slot.
However, it is unlikely that the network will deviate significantly from the right-wing talk that its loyal audience tunes in for. Shares of Fox Corporation fell about 5% after Carlson’s termination was announced.
