Fox News’ chief anchor Shepard Smith is stepping down after 23 years at the network.
Smith, in a surprising move, said during his show Friday that he asked the network to allow him to leave to “begin a new chapter.”
“The opportunities afforded this guy from small-town Mississippi have been many. It’s been an honor and a privilege to report the news each day to our loyal audience in context and with perspective, without fear or favor. I’ve worked with the most talented, dedicated and focused professionals I know and I’m proud to have anchored their work each day — I will deeply miss them,” Smith as he signed off his show for the final time.
Fox News president Jay Wallace, formerly Smith's producer, called the anchor "one of the premier newscasters of his generation," in a statement on his departure, according to The Hollywoord Reporter.
Wallace said he was proud of Smith’s work at the network.
“While this day is especially difficult as his former producer, we respect his decision and are deeply grateful for his immense contributions to the entire network.”
Smith has tangled with co-workers over President Donald Trump during the past few years, including evening show hosts Sean Hannity and Tucker Carlson.
It’s unclear what prompted Smith's sudden decision to leave the network.
