Fox News executive departs amid turmoil

Co-president cited in several lawsuits connected to Ailes

Fox News on Monday announced the exit of one of its co-presidents, Bill Shine, removing a holdover from the Roger Ailes era and signalling that the network is prepared to shake up its executive ranks as it tries to move past a season of turmoil that has engulfed it since last summer.

Shine is a veteran news producer and a longtime lieutenant to Ailes, the former chairperson who was forced out amid a sexual harassment scandal in July. Although Shine was seen as a source of stability in the news division at a turbulent time, his presence was viewed by some employees as a sign that Fox News’ parent, 21st Century Fox, was not serious about its stated commitment to reform the culture of the network.

Shine had been cited in several lawsuits as someone who enabled and concealed Ailes’s behaviour and dismissed concerns from women who complained about it. He has denied all wrongdoing.

His departure is sure to roil some of Fox News’ most recognizable stars, with whom Shine had close relationships. Sean Hannity, the channel’s 10 p.m. mainstay, is particularly close with Shine, and defended his friend last week on Twitter, saying that removing Shine would be “the total end of the FNC as we know it. Done.”

In a memo to the staff Monday afternoon, Rupert Murdoch said that Suzanne Scott would become president of programming and Jay Wallace would become president of news. Jack Abernethy, who was a copresident with Shine, remains in his current position.

“I know Bill was respected and liked by everyone at Fox News,” Murdoch wrote. “We will all miss him.”