In a memo to colleagues, Shepard Smith called Gawker’s recent report claiming he was demoted at Fox News “horsesh-t.”
Gawker reporter J.K. Trotter published a story Wednesday claiming Smith’s private life had caused a rift with Fox News executives. Smith steadfastly denied the report.
“I came to fox news 18 years ago because they agreed to hire me,” Smith wrote in the memo. “I’ve stayed with fox news because of my relationship with Roger Ailes. He’s my boss, my friend and my steadfast supporter both professionally and personally.”
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Fox News Chairman and CEO Roger Ailes and Smith first released a joint statement condemning Gawker’s reporting.
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“This story is 100% false and a complete fabrication,” they said. “As colleagues and close friends at Fox News for 18 years, our relationship has always been rooted in a mutual respect, deep admiration, loyalty, trust, and full support both professionally and personally.”
A spokesperson for Fox News confirmed the authenticity of the memo to TheWrap.
Fox News contributor Ellen Ratner also stood up for Fox News management, calling the allegations “disgusting.”
“My life partner Cholene and I have known Roger Ailes and Bill Shine for close to 20 years,” Ratner said. “We have been to their homes and Bill Shine and his family have been to ours. Countless times Roger Ailes and Fox News have supported our charities and nonprofit organizations.”
“I proudly stand by them both personally and professionally, and vouch for their honor and character,” she added.
Read Smith’s memo to staff that pushed back on Trotter’s article.
Newsteam- Good morning from Los Angeles.
I came to fox news 18 years ago because they agreed to hire me. I’ve stayed with fox news because of my relationship with Roger Ailes. He’s my boss, my friend and my steadfast supporter both professionally and personally.
Things you might read today are horseshit. As phony as 24-hour breaking news on The Plane Channel.
Stand down.
Big love. See yall Monday… Unless breaking news changes everything.
Shep