Jamie Horowitz is exiting as president of Fox Sports National Networks, the network announced abruptly on Monday, amid claims of misconduct that the ousted executive denies.
The company is investigating allegations of sexual harassment against Horowitz, an individual familiar with the matter told the New York Times. A representative from the channel confirmed to TheWrap on Monday that Horowitz’s departure is effective immediately.
The spokesperson did not elaborate on the reason for his removal, but an email on Monday from Fox Sports president Eric Shanks informing staffers of Horowitz’s departure pointedly mentioned that employees at the network are expected to maintain “professional conduct.”
Horowitz’s attorney, Patty Glaser, released a statement on Monday referring to the handling of Horowitz’s exit as “appalling.”
“At no point in his tenure was there any mention by his superiors or human resources of any misconduct or an inability to adhere to professional conduct,” Glaser’s statement read. “Jamie was hired by Fox to do a job, a job that until today he has performed in an exemplary fashion. Any slanderous accusations to the contrary will be vigorously defended.”
In response, an attorney representing Fox Sports said that Horowitz’s “termination was fully warranted, and his lawyer’s accusations are ill-informed and misguided.”
Shanks said he will be handling Horowitz’s responsibilities until a replacement is named. Horowitz has run programing for Fox Sports since May 2015, and oversaw content for FS1 and FS2 as well as managing the company’s website.
“I regret to inform you that Jamie Horowitz, President of National Networks for Fox Sports, will be leaving Fox Sports effective immediately,” read Shanks’ email to staffers. “We realize this news may come as a surprise for many of you, but we are confident in this decision.”
Shanks continued, “Everyone at Fox Sports, no matter what role we play, or what business, function or show we contribute to — should act with respect and adhere to professional conduct at all times. These values are non-negotiable.”
Prior to joining Fox Sports, Horowitz served as general manager of the “Today Show.” He also worked previously at ESPN and NBC Sports.
The shakeup comes a week after Fox Sports eliminated nearly two dozen writers and editors from its site and replaced them with video production roles in an increased focus on online video.