Tucker Carlson’s legal counsel has strongly criticized the cease-and-desist letter issued by FOX News in response to his client’s independent Twitter show. The sudden termination of Carlson from his network show on April 23 left many puzzled, as no official explanation was provided for the decision to part ways with the highly rated anchor.
Undeterred, Carlson announced the launch of his own Twitter series, premiering the first two episodes just last week. However, FOX continues to pay Carlson, as he remains bound by an exclusive deal until the end of 2024, which requires him to provide content exclusively to the network.
Reports indicate that FOX has warned Carlson to cease his work on the rival Twitter series or face legal repercussions. In response, Carlson’s lawyers argue that any legal action taken by FOX would violate their client’s First Amendment rights. There are speculations that Carlson may be attempting to exit his $20 million annual deal with the network.
Attorney Harmeet Dhillon, representing Carlson, expressed her firm stance that Carlson will not be silenced. In an interview with Axios, she criticized FOX News for disregarding the interests of its viewers and shareholders. Dhillon further took to Twitter, declaring that her client will not be silenced by either the far left or FOX News.
She went on to question whether members of Congress and other influential figures would want to share their views on a network that disrespects its viewers, leaks information about its own talent, and even threatens former talent for expressing themselves freely on Twitter.
Dhillon explained her absence from the network, stating that she cannot appear on FOX due to her representation of Carlson. She reaffirmed her commitment to free speech and the free flow of information, essential elements for a free society.
Furthermore, Carlson’s attorneys contend that FOX breached the contract by abruptly canceling his show without prior notice. Attorney Bryan Freedman criticized the network’s decision, highlighting the hypocrisy of claiming to defend freedom of speech while attempting to suppress Carlson’s right to speak freely.
The cease-and-desist letter reportedly referenced a quote from Carlson’s contract, emphasizing that his services were to be exclusive to FOX. It also noted that the contract prohibited him from providing services over the internet via streaming or other digital distribution.
FOX News has been contacted for their perspective on the situation, while Carlson’s legal team previously threatened legal action against the network, asserting that the non-compete agreement should not bind the prominent newscaster.
The letter further accused FOX executives, including Rupert Murdoch, of intentionally lying to Carlson and failing to uphold their commitments. Allegations were made regarding the disclosure of Carlson’s private messages and a violation of an agreement related to the settlement with Dominion Voting Systems, which aimed to avoid indicating any wrongdoing on Carlson’s part.
Dhillon warned that phone records and conversations between FOX’s Irena Briganti and various media outlets would be subpoenaed, suggesting potential legal action.
FOX News has denied reports of Carlson’s firing as part of a settlement with Dominion Voting Systems, dismissing the claims as categorically false.
Despite the controversy, Carlson released the first two episodes of his anticipated Twitter show, gaining significant attention. His previous show, “Tucker Carlson Tonight,” had consistently secured high viewership, making it the most-watched cable news show in the country.
Elon Musk, CEO of Twitter, publicly expressed support for Carlson’s show and advocated for a diverse range of political perspectives on the platform.
While Carlson clarified that no economic contract was in place with Musk, the Twitter CEO continued to show enthusiasm for Carlson’s ambitions to launch the show on the social media platform.
As the situation unfolds, FOX News faces mounting criticism and potential legal battles surrounding the handling of Carlson’s departure and his subsequent independent endeavors.