FAKE NEWS: Fox News spox says Shepard Smith was not escorted out by security

According to NBC News’ Jo Link Kent, Shepard Smith’s departure was a surprise to many of his colleagues and he was even “escorted out by security”:

Sources directly familiar tell me many Fox News and Fox Business staffers were "shocked" when Shep Smith announced his departure on @foxnews, some were visibly upset. He was escorted out by security, per sources.

Fox plans to have a set of rotating anchors host his time slot. https://t.co/FfW2QUNaoD

— Jo Ling Kent (@jolingkent) October 11, 2019

But a Fox News spokesperson is denying that was the case:

5. From a Fox News spokesperson:

“Shep’s exit from the building was planned and executed by Shep with Fox’s complete approval and the full support of FOX News – he was not remotely escorted out.”

— Yashar Ali ? (@yashar) October 11, 2019

A Fox News spokesperson tells me that Shepard Smith was NOT escorted out by security. https://t.co/sH74Y5Aozw

— Jeremy Barr (@jeremymbarr) October 11, 2019

But it does seem true that Shep’s colleagues were blindsided by the news. Here’s Bret Baier:

I first worked with Shep on my first assignment at @FoxNews almost 23 years ago. It was a total shock today to find out he’s leaving. He anchored breaking news -fast-moving events —better than anyone. I wish him well in whatever lies ahead

— Bret Baier (@BretBaier) October 11, 2019

And here’s Neil Cavuto’s on-air reaction along with reporter John Roberts:

Neil Cavuto and John Roberts clearly blind-sided by Shep Smith departure pic.twitter.com/36ijhC8th6

— Nicole Lafond (@Nicole_Lafond) October 11, 2019

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Related:

In a surprise announcement, Shepard Smith just announced he's leaving Fox News effective IMMEDIATELY https://t.co/s7qsD1j1lA

— Twitchy Team (@TwitchyTeam) October 11, 2019