Fox News Fires Ed Henry after Sexual Harassment Allegation

Fox News has fired anchor Ed Henry following a complaint against him alleging sexual harassment. Henry had been seen as something of an up-and-comer at the conservative network, anchoring three hours of morning news. The firing was made public on Wednesday.

Fox News CEO Suzanne Scott and President Jay Wallace broke the news of Henry’s firing in an internal memo obtained by the press.

“On Thursday, June 25, we received a complaint about Ed Henry from a former employee’s attorney involving willful sexual misconduct in the workplace years ago,” they wrote.

Fox News internal memo: "On Thursday, June 25, we received a complaint about Ed Henry from a former employee's attorney involving willful sexual misconduct in the workplace years ago… Based on investigative findings, Ed has been terminated."

— Brian Stelter (@brianstelter) July 1, 2020

“We immediately retained an outside law firm (which has never represented FOX News in investigations or litigation) to independently investigate the claims,” the memo went on.

“Ed was suspended the same day and removed from his on-air responsibilities pending investigation. Based on investigative findings, Ed has been terminated.”

“Rotating news anchors will co-anchor America’s Newsroom from New York alongside Sandra Smith until a permanent replacement is named. FOX News Media strictly prohibits all forms of sexual harassment, misconduct, and discrimination.”

“We will continue striving to maintain a safe and inclusive workplace for all employees.”

Sandra Smith addressed Henry’s firing on Wednesday shortly after the news was made public. Watch her statement here:

Fox News' Sandra Smith reports on-air that Ed Henry has been fired due to sexual harassment allegations. pic.twitter.com/RMJ7NNbp8D

— Justin Baragona (@justinbaragona) July 1, 2020

After the story broke, it emerged that Henry’s accuser will be represented by Douglas Wigdor. Wigdor has been described as a major attorney in the area of sexual harassment suits. He did not reveal any further details about his client.

Henry is not the first Fox News personality to lose his job over sexual harassment allegations, while former Fox News chief Roger Ailes was accused of harassment by dozens of women. Ailes died three years ago.