Bill O'Reilly out at Fox News
Bill O'Reilly will not be returning to Fox News Channel.An internal 21st Century Fox memo signed by Rupert Murdoch and his sons, Lachlan and James, called O'Reilly "one of the most accomplished TV personalities in the history of cable news."The company said, however, that it is confident it will "continue to be a powerhouse in cable news."
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Bill O'Reilly is out at Fox News, parent company 21st Century Fox said in a statement on Wednesday.
"After a thorough and careful review of the allegations, the Company and Bill O'Reilly have agreed that Bill O'Reilly will not be returning to the Fox News Channel," the company said.
In an internal memo obtained by NBC News, Fox said the decision was made in collaboration with outside counsel.
"By ratings standards, Bill O'Reilly is one of the most accomplished TV personalities in the history of cable news. In fact, his success by any measure is indisputable. Fox News has demonstrated again and again the strength of its talent bench. We have full confidence that the network will continue to be a powerhouse in cable news," the memo said.
The memo, signed by Rupert Murdoch and his sons, Lachlan and James , also reiterated Fox's "consistent commitment to fostering a work environment built on the values of trust and respect."
NPR reported that Tucker Carlson will take over O'Reilly's primetime slot, effective Monday.
Fox News sources: Tucker Carlson at 8pm, The Five moves to 9pm. Starting Monday 4/24.
Earlier this month, a slew of major brands pulled their advertisements from Fox News' "The O'Reilly Factor" amid allegations of sexual harassment, which O'Reilly has denied.
The New York Times reported that he or Fox settled five cases, totaling about $13 million.
The scandal prompted 21st Century Fox to commission an investigation into O'Reilly's behavior, the Times reported.
The newspaper said that the results would help determine O'Reilly's fate at the company, which is run by the Murdoch family.
The storm clouds over O'Reilly have fueled further questions about Fox's company culture.
Last summer, Roger Ailes resigned from his leadership positions at the company in the wake of sexual harassment allegations.
This story is developing. Please check back for further updates.
— NBC News contributed reporting. |
