Elisabeth Hasselbeck announced in a statement Monday that she is leaving the show she co-hosts, “Fox & Friends,” next month, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Hasselbeck thanked Fox News chairman Roger Ailes in her statement.
“Oftentimes, the most difficult decisions are between two great things,” Hasselbeck said in her statement, as quoted by The Hollywood Reporter. “Throughout my 14 years working in television, I have never experienced a more positive and thoughtful atmosphere than Fox News Channel, thanks to the strong leadership of Roger Ailes, who has created the best working environment a woman and mother could ask for.”
“His understanding, compassion, and kindness was exemplified when I shared with him that I am entering into a season where I want to start my day with my children first, and he offered his blessing to do so,” she continued. “With a heart full of gratitude and the peace that God has given me, I am confident that this personal decision is the right one for our family, and we will be joining all of you watching Fox & Friends each morning as we get ready for school together.”
Hasselbeck joined Fox in 2013 after serving as a panelist on ABC’s “The View” for more than a decade. She also competed in 2001 on CBS’ “Survivor.” Hasselbeck’s last day is scheduled to be Dec. 22, according to ABC News.
Ailes, in a statement, called Hasselbeck a “great addition to the Fox & Friends franchise.”
“Elisabeth and I discussed this at length over several weeks, and while I would love for her to continue here, I respect her incredibly difficult, yet deeply personal decision,” he said, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
