Fox Sports Engages in Settlement Talks over Harassment Lawsuit

LOS ANGELES, CA — Fox Sports is currently involved in mediation discussions with former hairstylist Noushin Faraji regarding her ongoing lawsuit against the network and several high-profile figures, including executive Charlie Dixon, former host Skip Bayless, and current host Joy Taylor. The mediation session took place on March 10, with attorneys attempting to negotiate a settlement.

According to court documents obtained by Front Office Sports, while no resolution was reached during mediation, the parties have expressed a desire to continue discussions through the mediator. In a recent court filing, the involved parties stated, “To preserve resources, it would be beneficial to hold off on the Initial Status Conference pending completing settlement negotiations.”

Faraji’s legal team has requested an extension of the status conference, which is currently scheduled for April 22, seeking a shift to at least July 29. The court approved this joint stipulation. The filing underscores the ongoing complexities of the case, which has garnered significant media attention.

Faraji alleges that she faced sexual harassment from both Dixon and Bayless, while Taylor reportedly insulted her on both personal and professional levels. Following these accusations, Dixon has been placed on administrative leave, and Taylor returned to her weekday show, Speak, after a brief hiatus.

Bayless, who left Fox last year, has also been implicated in the case. This lawsuit is not an isolated incident for Fox; former host Julie Stewart-Binks has filed a separate suit alleging sexual assault against Dixon during a 2016 incident at a Los Angeles hotel. In response to Stewart-Binks’ claims, Dixon has maintained that no inappropriate conduct occurred.

In a statement provided to Front Office Sports in January, a spokesperson for Fox emphasized the company’s serious approach to the allegations but refrained from offering additional comments due to the ongoing litigation. As of now, attorneys for both Bayless and Faraji have not responded to media inquiries regarding the mediation discussions.

Notably, the allegations against Taylor surfaced after Bayless’ departure from Fox Sports. Despite this turmoil, Taylor continues her role at the network. Dixon’s administrative leave status, stemming from the presented accusations, remains under scrutiny as the negotiations advance.

The continuing settlement talks between Fox Sports and Faraji signal an effort to address the serious allegations and the potential for resolution outside of court. The high-profile nature of the case could have lasting implications for the individuals involved and for Fox Sports as it navigates these significant legal challenges.