Tucker Carlson was fired from Fox News in April 2023 due to a combination of escalating concerns, including his growing influence, controversial and extreme off-air views, and internal controversies. Key reasons included:

• Carlson promoted provocative and racially charged content on his show, including conspiracy theories like the "great replacement theory." Private messages revealed that these extreme views were genuinely held by him, which alarmed Fox executives as it meant he was not just performing for the camera.
• Just before the Dominion Voting Systems defamation lawsuit trial, a troubling text message from Carlson endorsing anti-Antifa and racially insensitive remarks caused fear among Fox's board about potential damage if exposed publicly.
• His behavior and rhetoric shifted from being seen as an asset to the network to a liability, sparking concerns about the company’s reputation and legal risks after a $787.5 million settlement in the Dominion lawsuit.
• Additionally, Carlson’s firing was influenced by a discrimination lawsuit filed by a former Fox producer who alleged bullying and antisemitic comments. Carlson's coverage of the January 6 Capitol insurrection also caused concern among Fox's leadership.
• The decision was ultimately made by Fox executives including Rupert Murdoch and his son Lachlan Murdoch, and Fox News CEO Suzanne Scott, who determined Carlson's removal was essential for protecting the network's future.

Carlson himself said in a later interview that he got fired for saying things the company didn't like, highlighting a clash over content control and his style on air.