Fox News host Tucker Carlson has officially parted ways with the network, according to multiple news sources (NBC News, The Washington Post, ABC News). Carlson, who hosted the network’s highly rated 8pm hour, was the network’s most popular prime-time host and a leading voice in the modern conservative movement (NBC News). However, his departure comes on the heels of a $787.5 million defamation lawsuit in which Carlson’s show was implicated (The New York Times).
The announcement of Carlson’s departure was made retroactively, which raises questions about the future of Fox News (The Washington Post). His last program aired on Friday, and the network said in a statement that they “thank him for his service to the network as a host” (The Hill). Carlson’s departure is a seismic shift in the cable news landscape (USA Today).
The Dominion defamation lawsuit stemmed from accusations made by Carlson’s show that the voting software company played a role in manipulating the 2020 election (CNBC). Although Carlson did not comment on the lawsuit during his final show, he often used his platform to push dubious claims about the pandemic and election (Politico).
Carlson’s departure is not the first shake-up in the media world. Other notable figures, including Don Lemon, have also left their roles in recent weeks (Politico). Additionally, a GOP lawmaker recently spoke out about Fox News’ coverage of former President Trump, specifically pointing to interviews he conducted with hosts Hannity, Carlson, and Levin (USA Today).
As of now, it is uncertain what the future holds for Carlson and Fox News.
