After recent reporting that the Murdochs were looking for a female executive to run Fox News, the big shakeup today––including the departure of network co-president Bill Shine––has rather noticeably led to a promotion for network exec Suzanne Scott.
Scott, network Executive Vice President of Programming and Development, is becoming President of Programming at Fox News, per a network memo today.
One of the big discussions about Fox recently has been about whether the culture at the network needs to be changed, something addressed in The Hollywood Reporter‘s report on the Murdochs considering a woman for the top job:
The Murdochs have been feeling increased pressure to make good on their public statements to foster “a workplace based on the values of respect and trust.” Putting a woman in the top spot at Fox News would send a distinct message given the issues that have been roiling the network. The feelers are external; though it’s possible that someone could get promoted from within.
UPDATE –– 3:48 pm ET: Some of the reporting this afternoon on the Fox News shake-up isn’t exactly so positive about Scott:
One ex Fox-er: Scott "a nightmare – just as bad as the rest." A current Fox employee: "Worse than Shine" in deflecting concerns of women — David Folkenflik (@davidfolkenflik) May 1, 2017
During Ailes era, Suzanne Scott was in charge of enforcing Ailes mini-skirt dress code for women. Fox women asking how culture will change? — Gabriel Sherman (@gabrielsherman) May 1, 2017
http://www.mediaite.com/online/she-persisted-fox-news-executive-shake-up-leads-to-promotion-of-female-exec-suzanne-scott/
Hanity had better be ready to leave.
Don’t be surprised if he is off the air by the end of the month.
Fox news will be the new View in no time.