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Roger Ailes, Former Fox News CEO, Dies At 77

The network he helped found in 1996 cited a statement released by his family confirming the late media mogul's death.

Roger Ailes, the former chairman and CEO of Fox News, died at age 77 on Thursday morning.

The network he helped found in 1996 cited a statement released by his family confirming the late media mogul's death.

The statement reads in part:

"I am profoundly sad and heartbroken to report that my husband, Roger Ailes, passed away this morning. Roger was a loving husband to me, to his son Zachary, and a loyal friend to many. He was also a patriot, profoundly grateful to live in a country that gave him so much opportunity to work hard, to rise — and to give back."

Mr. Ailes resigned from his position as CEO in July 2016 after allegations that he committed sexual assault were revealed. Among those who accused the CEO of sexual harassment was anchor Megyn Kelly, who has since left the network to join NBC News.

Before founding the famous conservative news network in 1996, Mr. Ailes worked in politics in various capacities. He most notably served as a media adviser to President Richard Nixon, and filled similar capacities with Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush.

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