Former Fox Sports host Skip Bayless has been accused of harassment in a new lawsuit filed by Noushin Faraji, a hairstylist who worked at the network for over a decade. The lawsuit claims Bayless made repeated unwanted advances, including an alleged offer of $1.5 million for sexual favors. Faraji also accuses Fox Sports of fostering a toxic workplace that enabled such behavior to go unchecked.
Details of the Allegations
The lawsuit, filed in California Superior Court, outlines a series of incidents dating back to 2017 when Bayless allegedly began making inappropriate advances toward Faraji. These included unwelcome hugs, kisses on the cheek, and inappropriate remarks. In 2021, Bayless allegedly offered Faraji $1.5 million in exchange for sex, which she refused. Following her rejection, Faraji claims Bayless made veiled threats about her job security.
“Ms. Faraji was clear that she wanted to maintain a professional relationship, but her refusal to comply with Bayless’s advances led to retaliation,” the lawsuit states. She was ultimately terminated in 2024, which she describes as a “retaliatory termination” based on fabricated reasons.
Bayless, who left Fox Sports in 2024 after his show was canceled due to declining ratings, has not commented on the allegations. Attempts to reach his attorney, Jared Levine, have so far been unsuccessful.
Fox Sports Accused of Enabling Workplace Misconduct
Faraji’s lawsuit is not limited to Bayless’s actions. It also accuses Fox Sports and its parent company, Fox Corporation, of creating a “pervasive hostile work environment” where senior staff and on-air talent were allegedly allowed to abuse their positions without accountability. The lawsuit further alleges that employees were routinely denied overtime pay and proper wages, practices Faraji claims were systemic within the organization.
Fox Sports issued a brief statement in response, saying, “We take all allegations seriously but cannot comment further due to pending litigation at this time.” The company has faced similar scrutiny in the past, including a 2017 scandal that led to the dismissal of its head of programming amid allegations of sexual harassment.
Potential Fallout for Fox Sports and the Media Industry
The lawsuit could have significant implications for Fox Sports, both financially and reputationally. Legal experts suggest that if the case is granted class-action status, it may shed light on widespread labor violations and workplace harassment within the network. This could lead to costly settlements and further damage to its public image.
“These types of allegations highlight the urgent need for structural changes in corporate culture, particularly in industries where power imbalances are prevalent,” said a legal expert specializing in workplace harassment cases. Advocacy groups have echoed these concerns, calling for stricter enforcement of labor laws and stronger protections for employees in media and entertainment.
A Broader Cultural Shift
Faraji’s decision to come forward reflects a growing trend of individuals speaking out against workplace misconduct despite potential risks. Her allegations come at a time when the media industry is under increasing scrutiny for its treatment of employees, particularly women and marginalized groups.
As the case progresses, its outcome could set a precedent for how similar allegations are handled in the future. It also serves as a stark reminder of the challenges employees face when navigating hostile workplace environments, and the importance of holding corporations accountable for their actions.
