Why Did Geraldo Rivera Get Fired from Fox News?
Geraldo Rivera, a renowned journalist and television personality, was abruptly fired from Fox News in 2015. The decision came as a shock to many, as Rivera had been a staple on the network for nearly two decades. This article delves into the reasons behind his termination and the impact it had on his career.
Controversial Statements and Actions
One of the primary reasons for Geraldo Rivera’s firing was his controversial statements and actions. Throughout his tenure at Fox News, Rivera had made several headlines for his polarizing comments. For instance, in 2014, he made a controversial statement about the death of Eric Garner, a man who died after being placed in a chokehold by a police officer. Rivera suggested that Garner’s death was not caused by the chokehold but rather by his obesity, sparking widespread criticism and backlash.
Public Outcry and Network’s Image
Rivera’s comments, along with other controversial statements he had made in the past, led to a public outcry. Many viewers and critics felt that his remarks were insensitive and went against the values of the network. Fox News, which has always prided itself on its conservative values, was under immense pressure to address the situation and protect its image.
Internal Conflict and Power Struggles
Behind the scenes, there were also reports of internal conflict and power struggles at Fox News. Sources claimed that Rivera had been at odds with some of the network’s higher-ups for years. These tensions reportedly escalated following his controversial statements, leading to his eventual termination.
Impact on Rivera’s Career
Geraldo Rivera’s firing from Fox News had a significant impact on his career. After leaving the network, Rivera faced a challenging time finding new opportunities in the media industry. Despite his long-standing reputation and experience, many media outlets were hesitant to hire him due to his past controversies. However, Rivera eventually made a comeback, joining CNN as a contributor in 2017.
Conclusion
The reasons behind Geraldo Rivera’s firing from Fox News were a combination of his controversial statements, public outcry, and internal conflicts within the network. Although the termination was a difficult period for Rivera, he managed to bounce back and continue his career in journalism. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by journalists in today’s polarized media landscape.