Maria Bartiromo's attorney, Bryan Freedman, has vehemently denied reports that the television host was fired by Fox News, asserting that such claims are "absolutely and unequivocally false." In an exclusive statement, Freedman warned that he possesses "receipts and witnesses" to substantiate his client's position, suggesting a potential legal dispute.
Fox News Media had announced Thursday that Bartiromo was "no longer with" the network after more than 12 years, effective immediately. A spokesperson for the network thanked Bartiromo for her contributions and wished her well in her future endeavors. The network also stated that her Fox Business show, previously titled "Maria Bartiromo's Wall Street," would have its name changed, and a rotating cast of anchors would host her daytime program, which will be renamed "Mornings With Fox Business."
Freedman characterized the reports of Bartiromo's termination as "irresponsible" and exhibiting "a complete and utter reckless disregard for the truth." He indicated that the evidence supporting their claims would surface, either through legal proceedings or other means.
Bartiromo joined Fox News in 2014, departing CNBC where she had worked since 1993. Her tenure at Fox News spanned over 12 years. Court documents from a 2021 defamation lawsuit revealed that Bartiromo earned approximately $70 million during her time with the network. She had been hired by Roger Ailes, who later resigned from Fox in 2016 amid sexual harassment allegations.
Bartiromo faced criticism for her coverage of former President Donald Trump, particularly concerning the 2020 presidential election. These reports were a factor in claims made against Fox News in lawsuits filed by Dominion Voting Systems and Smartmatic. In the Smartmatic lawsuit, Bartiromo was named as a defendant, and the suit alleged she allowed false election claims to air to retain viewers.