Roger Ailes has died at the age of 77, according to his wife.
The founder and former Chairman and CEO of Fox News’ death comes less than a year after he resigned from the company over allegations of sexual harassment.
His wife, Elizabeth, with whom he has one son, released the following statement to conservative newsman Matt Drudge:
“I am profoundly sad and heartbroken to report that my husband, Roger Ailes, passed away this morning,” Elizabeth Ailes said. “Roger was a loving husband to me, to his son Zachary, and a loyal friend to many. He was also a patriot, profoundly grateful to live in a country that gave him so much opportunity to work hard, to rise—and to give back. During a career that stretched over more than five decades, his work in entertainment, in politics, and in news affected the lives of many millions. And so even as we mourn his death, we celebrate his life.”
Ailes has had health issues in the past. In 2014, he took an extended leave for a health scare. Last year, New York magazine reported that Ailes was still having trouble walking and rarely left his executive suite.
The conservative network’s parent company, Twenty-First Century Fox, has paid out $45 million in settlements related to sexual harassment claims against Ailes, the former CEO, since his July resignation.
