Beleaguered Fox News chairman Roger Ailes resigned effective immediately Thursday amid growing allegations of his sexual harassment of on-air talent.
The long-time head of Rupert Murdoch’s cable news operation will be replaced by the media mogul atop Fox News, according to a release from 21st Century Fox.
“Roger Ailes has made a remarkable contribution to our company and our country,” said a statement from Murdoch. “Roger shared my vision of a great and independent television organization and executed it brilliantly over 20 great years.”
No other information or details about Ailes’ departure were made public.
But according to New York Magazine national affairs editor Gabriel Sherman, the once invulnerable Ailes will take a $60 million golden parachute to leave the company behind.
“Payout will be over a period of time that includes consulting,” Sherman tweeted.
A New York Magazine piece also revealed that 21st Century Fox executives muzzled Ailes’ chief spokeswoman, Irena Briganti. She is banned from speaking with Ailes or the media about his future.
The last straw against Ailes, 76, apparently came earlier this week with reports he made sexual advances a decade ago on current Fox News star anchor Megyn Kelly.
Former “Fox & Friends” co-host Gretchen Carlson filed a lawsuit earlier this month claiming she was fired after rebuffing Ailes’ sexual overtures.
The blond former Miss America’s charges were echoed by another nine women this month.
