New Yorker Fires Ryan Lizza Over Sexual Misconduct


fourth estate newThe New Yorker fired Washington correspondent Ryan Lizza on Monday after allegations of sexual misconduct were leveled at him. The accuser is currently remaining private. Lizza has denied any wrongdoing.

The New Yorker said in a statement, “The New Yorker recently learned that Ryan Lizza engaged in what we believe was improper sexual conduct. We have reviewed the matter and, as a result, have severed ties with Lizza. Due to a request for privacy, we are not commenting further.”

“I am dismayed that The New Yorker has decided to characterize a respectful relationship with a person I dated as somehow inappropriate,” Lizza said in a statement. “The New Yorker was unable to cite any company policy that was violated. I am sorry to my friends, workplace colleagues, and loved ones for any embarrassment this episode may cause.”

“I love The New Yorker, my home for the last decade, and I have the highest regard for the people who work there. But this decision, which was made hastily and without a full investigation of the relevant facts, was a terrible mistake.”

The accuser’s law firm, Wigdor LLP, said in a statement, “Although she desires to remain confidential and requests that her privacy be respected, in no way did Mr. Lizza’s misconduct constitute a ‘respectful relationship’ as he has now tried to characterize it.”

“Our client reported Mr. Lizza’s actions to ensure that he would be held accountable and in the hope that by coming forward she would help other potential victims.”

By Monday afternoon, the New Yorker had already updated Lizza’s biography to read, “Ryan Lizza, an on-air contributor for CNN, was The New Yorker’s Washington correspondent from 2007-2017.”

Lizza oftentimes appeared on CNN’s The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer to offer analysis. In the wake of the New Yorker’s action, CNN said that he is suspended from appearing while they conduct their own investigation.

Georgetown University, where Lizza has taught, said that his course this semester has concluded and he would not be invited back.

The media industry has seen several notable figures fall into disgrace over sexual harassment and assault allegations. Both CBS This Morning and the Today Show lost their male c0-anchors while the New York Times’s White House correspondent Glenn Thrush has been suspended per a review.


About Tyler

Tyler is the chief media reporter for TKNN, with the news organization since its founding in November of 2010. He has previously served as chief political reporter and chief political anchor for TKNN.

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