Katz Banks Kumin partner Lisa Banks appeared on NPR’s 1A in a show entitled, “Fox News Factors a Future Without Bill O’Reilly.” The show discussed the network’s decision to fire O’Reilly amid mounting sexual harassment allegations against the host and the impact this might have on the network. 21st Century Fox announced earlier this week that O’Reilly would not be returning to host Fox News’ flagship show, The O’Reilly Factor, in response to these sexual harassment claims. This follows less than a year after former network executive Roger Ailes was ousted from the network for similar allegations made by a number of female cohorts, including Gretchen Carlson.

Commenting on these latest harassment claims, Ms. Banks said, “Fox News has had a reputation for this kind of culture and conduct for a long time.” This latest incident, sparked from allegations made by media personality Wendy Walsh, drew a new round of public attention to the network’s pervasive harassment problem. “Had Wendy Walsh not come forward, I think Fox would have been happy to continue sweeping this under the rug,” Ms. Banks said. She noted, “Three out of four women who are victims of harassment don’t report it,” for fear of retaliation and public scrutiny. The ongoing allegations of harassment at Fox reflect a pervasive issue brought on by a complacent organizational culture.  For years, Ailes and O’Reilly helmed Fox News, driving the culture of unacceptable behavior. In order to truly begin to address harassment issues, Ms. Banks concluded, “you have to change the culture at the top.” To listen to the full show, click here.