Popular Fox News anchor Taryn Asher has filed a lawsuit against her television station, alleging workplace discrimination based on gender before her termination after raising concerns. Asher, 49, served as a longtime evening anchor for WJBK-TV since 2007 and became the lead broadcaster for evening news in 2022 before being removed from the station following a series of complaints.
Lawsuit Allegations
According to a lawsuit obtained by The Detroit Metro Times filed on June 3, the newscaster is suing the network over gender discrimination allegations among other accusations. The suit claims the station suspended Asher in retaliation for a months-long dispute after she alleged her bosses showed favoritism toward her male co-anchor, Roop Raj.
Pattern of Discrimination
Asher initially raised concerns about potential gender discrimination after Paul McGonagle was appointed as the station's general manager in July 2025. She claimed she observed a pattern of men replacing women in leadership roles. Additionally, she alleged that Raj and other team members excluded her from conversations about guest interview assignments and that Raj received more interview opportunities.
In September 2025, she brought these concerns to Assistant News Director Sean Lee. The lawsuit claims she advocated for equal treatment between herself and Raj, but was denied the same opportunities.
Retaliation and Suspension
Asher was placed on leave pending an investigation after being accused of 'egregious behavior' on November 5, 2025. The filing stated that Raj told the station's human resources department he believed Asher was 'jealous' and that her discrimination complaints were about 'men versus women.'
On November 14, Asher was informed she had engaged in unprofessional conduct and used profanity. Blanton and HR Director Dalina Hayes referred to her behavior as 'outbursts,' but Asher denied the allegations, stating she had never engaged in such conduct.
The anchor was called on November 21 and told her last day would be the following day, with no termination letter provided. A union attorney later negotiated an amended termination date of June 2026.
Unequal Treatment
The complaint further accused the network of being more lenient with male employees, citing Raj's 2012 arrest for drunk driving, McGonagle's 2018 arrest for the same offense in Washington DC, and former Fox journalist Charlie LeDuff's 2013 arrest for disorderly conduct. The lawsuit also alleged that male employees were allowed to shout profanities, with one later promoted, and engage in sexually inappropriate comments and harassment.
Damages Sought
Asher is seeking damages for lost wages and benefits, emotional distress, damage to her professional reputation, punitive damages, attorney fees, and costs. The Daily Mail reached out to Asher and Fox News for comment.
