Gretchen Carlson Hired by A+E Networks

Former Fox News anchor Gretchen Carlson is returning to television. A+E Networks has hired the journalist to create and host a series of documentary specials. The documentary specials will be developed by A+E Originals, the newly launched non-fiction content development company.

The first of these specials, The Brave with Gretchen Carlson (working title) for Lifetime, will focus on how Gretchen’s courageous actions to confront the scourge of sexual harassment in the workplace has served as a catalyst for so many other women to say #MeToo.

Carlson was let go by Fox News in 2016 and accused then-CEO of Fox News Roger Ailes of sexual harassment. Ailes ended up resigning from the network. Carlson was also Miss America 1989. She was recently named Chair of the Miss America Organization and is a graduate of Stanford.

“It has now been confirmed that our voices are amplified and actually get heard when we stand together, and I am proud to partner with Lifetime to make change happen by presenting the heartbreaking, but previously untold, stories of everyday working women,” said Carlson.  “We need to shine a light on the predators and their enablers, rather than ostracizing and blacklisting the innocent victims whose dreams and careers have been destroyed. I’m grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with A+E Networks on this important project.”

“Gretchen has stood at the forefront of this powerful movement, risking her own career to protect all women.  She’s a trusted, courageous journalist and a tireless advocate for women from all walks of life,” said Steve Ascher, Vice President of A+E Originals.  “We’re honored that she has chosen to partner with A+E Originals™ to bring her voice, passion and unique perspectives to Lifetime.”

The other two specials in the series will focus on inspirational stories of every day Americans. Steve Ascher, Kristy Sabat, Liz Gateley and Gretchen Carlson will serve as Executive Producers.  Executive producers for Lifetime are Gena McCarthy and Brie Bryant.

The collaboration with Carlson marks another major deal for A+E Originals on the heels of their recently announced partnerships with Leah Remini and Elizabeth Vargas.  A+E Originals develops long-form series, specials and documentaries in all genres for distribution across the A+E portfolio, including A&E, Lifetime and HISTORY, as well as for outside entities.