Tucker Carlson, the conservative face of Fox News and host of the network’s top-rated present, has unexpectedly left the broadcaster simply days after it settled a defamation lawsuit for a colossal sum. The distinguished presenter was a distinguished determine within Republican circles and regularly interviewed former US President Donald Trump. Critics have accused him of disseminating false information and interesting in race-baiting and hate speech.
In a succinct statement today, Fox News introduced the departure without providing any clarification, simply stating…
“Fox News Media and Tucker Carlson have agreed to part ways. We thank him for his service to the community as a number and previous to that as a contributor.” The fifty three 12 months outdated Carlson, who joined the network in 2009, has not publicly commented on his exit.
As host of “Tucker Carlson Tonight,” the outspoken presenter incessantly took aim at liberal policies, garnering a loyal and passionate right-wing viewership within the course of. His robust stance on points corresponding to immigration and gun control resonated along with his viewers, making his present one of the most successful in cable tv.
The recent settlement with Dominion Voting Systems, which amounted to US$787.5 million, ensured that neither Rupert Murdoch, Fox Corporation’s Chairman, nor high-profile hosts such as Tucker Carlson would want to appear in court docket throughout a potentially volatile trial. However, pre-trial paperwork confirmed that senior figures within Fox News had been conscious of falsehoods being unfold regarding the 2020 election and even expressed concern about losing viewers to rival stations.
In disclosed private messages, Carlson revealed his dislike for Trump, commenting that he “hate[d] him passionately” and was eager for the day he may “ignore Trump most nights.” Despite his apparent animosity toward the former president, Carlson’s current interview with Trump, after the latter’s indictment on felony expenses, seemed to be performed on friendly phrases.
Critics have lengthy accused the presenter of fuelling divisive rhetoric, with the Media Matters group going so far as to label him a “dangerous misinformer” who has “served as the bridge between Fox News and essentially the most extreme parts of the right-wing base.” Regardless of such characterizations, Fox News continued to assist Carlson, as his present remained a reliable source of consideration, viewership, and advert revenue.
In a defamation swimsuit final yr, the network’s legal professionals argued that viewers should strategy Carlson’s show with scepticism, despite the fact that its catchphrase claimed it to be “the sworn enemy of lying, pomposity, smugness and groupthink.”
While public notion paints him as a powerful voice in American politics, Carlson’s private life is notably low-key. Unsung resides in rural Maine, a major distance from the country’s political epicentre, and sometimes broadcasts his show from his home. On Friday night, he presented his final episode in a relaxed method, consuming pizza and signing off by promising to “be back on Monday… see you then.”
News of his sudden departure shocked both Washington D.C. and Wall Street, contributing to an almost 4% decline in Fox News’ share value. Rumours surrounding Carlson’s interest in a political career have circulated for years, though the presenter has denied harbouring any presidential ambitions..