Former Fox News Channel anchor Gretchen Carlson has settled her sexual harassment lawsuit against former Fox News CEO Roger Ailes, the network announced Tuesday.
Ms. Carlson was reportedly paid $20 million, according to three people familiar with the settlement, Vanity Fair reported.
“21st Century Fox is pleased to announce that it has settled Gretchen Carlson’s lawsuit,” 21st Century Fox 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,” the statement read.
Ms. Carlson alleged that her professional career was threatened after she refused repeated unwanted sexual advances from Fox News’ then-CEO, Mr. Ailes. Mr. Ailes denied the claims but resigned following 21st Century Fox’s outside investigation into the allegations. Since Ms. Carlson’s lawsuit was filed, more than two dozen additional women came forward with similar claims, according to New York magazine.
Ms. Carlson thanked the company for taking “decisive action” and declared she’s ready to move on from the controversy.
“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,” she said in a statement. “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.”
• Jessica Chasmar can be reached at jchasmar@washingtontimes.com.
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