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Fact check: How much did Fox News pay Bill O'Reilly in his settlement package?

Checked on September 18, 2025

1. Summary of the results

The original statement inquires about the amount Fox News paid Bill O'Reilly in his settlement package. According to various analyses, Bill O'Reilly paid $32 million to settle a sexual harassment claim [1] [2] [3]. However, it is not explicitly stated that Fox News paid this amount, as some sources suggest that O'Reilly himself made the payment [3] [1]. The exact amount paid by Fox News is not specified [4]. The settlement was reportedly made with a former Fox News legal analyst, Lis Wiehl [2] [3].

  • Key points from the analyses include:
  • Bill O'Reilly's settlement package is described as an 'unprecedented' and 'highly unusual' sum [1]
  • 21st Century Fox, the owner of Fox News, was aware of the large settlement paid out following complaints by Lis Wiehl [1]
  • The settlement was made in January, but the exact date is not specified [1]

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Some sources do not provide any information relevant to the settlement package of Bill O'Reilly [5]. Additionally, there is limited information available about the specific circumstances surrounding the settlement and the role of Fox News in the payment. Alternative viewpoints on the settlement package and the payment made by Fox News are not presented in the analyses, which could provide a more comprehensive understanding of the situation.

  • Missing context includes:
  • The specific circumstances surrounding the settlement
  • The role of Fox News in the payment of the settlement
  • Alternative viewpoints on the settlement package and the payment made by Fox News

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement implies that Fox News paid Bill O'Reilly a settlement package, but the analyses suggest that O'Reilly himself may have made the payment [3] [1]. This discrepancy could indicate potential misinformation or bias in the original statement. The sources that report the $32 million payment do not explicitly state that Fox News made the payment, which could be misleading [1] [2]. The framing of the original statement may benefit those who seek to emphasize Fox News' involvement in the settlement, while the actual circumstances of the payment are more complex [4] [1] [2].

Want to dive deeper?
What were the allegations against Bill O'Reilly that led to his departure from Fox News?
How much did Fox News pay in total settlements for harassment claims in 2017?
What is the current status of Bill O'Reilly's career after leaving Fox News in 2017?
Did Bill O'Reilly admit to any wrongdoing in his settlement with Fox News?
How did the settlement with Bill O'Reilly affect Fox News' public image and ratings?