Offender: Bill O’Reilly on The O’Reilly Factor
Media Outlet: FOX News Network, aired 2/9/09
The Offense: Bill O’Reilly compares legendary journalist Helen Thomas to “the Wicked Witch of the East”.
NOW’s Analysis: O’Reilly’s comment is not only sexist and ageist, it shows a lack of respect for a courageous and outspoken journalist who has covered ten U.S. presidents. Would O’Reilly use a similarly derogatory term about an older male journalist? We think not!
Take Action: Write to the Executive VP at Fox News and tell him what you think.
Lisa Bennett, NOW Communications Director