Roger Ailes, the man credited with almost single handedly creating cable news powerhouse Fox News, has died aged 77.
The network shared a statement from his wife, Elizabeth Ailes, which was first obtained by conservative website The Drudge Report.
“I am profoundly sad and heartbroken to report that my husband, Roger Ailes, passed away this morning,” the statement said. "Roger was a loving husband to me, to his son Zachary, and a loyal friend to many."
"He was also a patriot, profoundly grateful to live in a country that gave him so much opportunity to work hard, to rise - and to give back.
"During a career that stretched over more than five decades, his work in entertainment, in politics, and in news affected the lives of many millions.
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"And so even as we mourn his death, we celebrate his life."
Long before Fox News, Ailes had worked as an aide to President Richard Nixon, and realised before most what television could do for the Republican party.
In 1996 he launched Fox News, which became a profound influence on the right wing of American politics.
Last year he was sued by former Fox News presenter Gretchen Carlson for sexual harassment, prompting other women to step forward and back her claims. He resigned in July 2016.
