Fox settles Carlson’s sexual harassment lawsuit against Ailes for $20M

FOX agreed to pay $20 million to former broadcaster Gretchen Carlson to settle a sexual harassment lawsuit she filed against former FOX News CEO Roger Ailes.

Twenty-First Century Fox, the parent company of Fox News Channel, apologized Tuesday to Gretchen Carlson as it agreed to pay $20 million to the former Fox broadcaster to settle a sexual harassment lawsuit she filed against Fox News’ ex-CEO Roger Ailes, according to a person briefed on the settlement terms.

The person requested anonymity because the settlement terms aren’t revealed publicly.

In a rare and forceful corporate apology, 21st Century Fox also praised Carlson’s work at the company. “During her tenure at Fox News, Gretchen exhibited the highest standards of journalism and professionalism,” the company said in a statement. “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.”

Twenty-First Century Fox will pay the entire amount of the settlement sum, the person briefed on the settlement terms said.

Carlson said in a statement she was “gratified that 21st Century Fox took decisive action” after she filed her complaint. “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.

“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,” Carlson said, referring to a Twitter campaign she started. “All women deserve a dignified and respectful workplace in which talent, hard work and loyalty are recognized, revered and rewarded.”