On Thursday, Fox said Maria Bartiromo left the company "effective today." Later, a Fox News spokesperson said it was the network's call to end her employment and described it as a "business decision." The company offered no additional comment on Friday. The stock finished the session off 3.4% at $58.42.
Bryan Freedman, who represents Bartiromo and practices in Los Angeles, pushed back hard on the chatter that she was out at Fox. He described any story claiming she had been dismissed or no longer works at the company as "irresponsible" and "absolutely and unequivocally false." He added, "Make no mistake, we have the receipts and witnesses and they will come out whether through the courthouse or otherwise," and said, "Those reporting her firing or the incredulous facts supporting that fiction have exhibited a complete and utter reckless disregard for the truth."
Multiple outlets, including the newsletter Status, the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times, reported the decision followed claims that Bartiromo relayed confidential details about Fox's new coverage plans to the White House. On Thursday night, President Donald Trump posted, "Maria is a total professional, and a true warrior. Her fans, of which there are many, will not be happy."
Even when headlines swirl, staying consistent beats guessing, so download the free Always Be Buying E-Book today
Freedman has represented high profile media departures before, including Tucker Carlson after his exit from Fox News and Don Lemon when he left CNN. For anyone with an eye on media names, this saga may keep moving as statements roll out and coverage evolves. The only thing markets told us Friday is the price on the screen: $58.42.
