Shep Smith, Fox News’ anti-Trump anchor, is out at the network.
Fox News announced late Friday afternoon that Shepard Smith is leaving the network after 23 years. Sources tell Mediaite that it was Smith’s decision to leave the network and that he was not fired.
In a moving statement at the end of his Friday show, Smith announced the news, and said it would be his last broadcast. [Mediaite]
Smith said, “Even in our currently polarized nation, it’s my hope that the facts will win the day, that the truth will always matter, that journalism and journalist will thrive.”
He said, “So recently I asked the company to allow me to leave Fox News, after requesting that I stay, they obliged. Under our agreement I won’t be reporting elsewhere, at least in the near future, but I will be able to see more of Geo and Lucia, and our friends and family, and then we will see what comes along.”
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He concluded, “This is my last newscast here. Thank you for watching today and over the decades as I traveled to many of your communities and anchored this program, studio B, and Fox Report, plus endless marathon hours of breaking news. It’s been an honor and my pleasure.”
Shep Smith announces that today was his last show and he’s leaving Fox News pic.twitter.com/JF28ub1js6
— Andrew Lawrence (@ndrew_lawrence) October 11, 2019
Smith had drawn the anger of many Fox News viewers due to his critical opinions of Donald Trump.
Several Fox anchors have reacted to the news with shock:
I first worked with Shep on my first assignment at @FoxNews almost 23 years ago. It was a total shock today to find out he’s leaving. He anchored breaking news -fast-moving events —better than anyone. I wish him well in whatever lies ahead
— Bret Baier (@BretBaier) October 11, 2019
He was also the first to bring me into his office when I was diagnosed with MS and asked “how can I help, JD?” It’s a sad day for all of us. I love you, Shep. Thank you for making us all better broadcasters, and giving me the greatest opportunity to be a part of your show. ❤️
— Janice Dean (@JaniceDean) October 11, 2019
Proud to have worked with @ShepNewsTeam Never seen a more capable breaking news anchor, delivering fact, clarity, and the powerful emotion that accompanies big news stories. Thank you, Shep. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Yd3G3yN4ev
— Gerri Willis (@GerriWillisFBN) October 11, 2019
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