The Empire State Building was lit in red, white and blue on Thursday night to mark the 30th anniversary of Fox News Channel. The illumination followed a ceremony on the building's Observation Deck attended by "FOX & Friends" co-hosts Steve Doocy, Ainsley Earhardt, Brian Kilmeade and Lawrence Jones.
Dan Rogoski, general manager of the Empire State Building, welcomed the group by noting that the network has evolved from a new cable channel into an established presence in American television news. Rogoski credited generations of journalists, anchors and producers for the network's 24-hour coverage since its launch in 1996.
Steve Doocy, who was an original employee when the channel launched on October 7, 1996, expressed delight that the landmark would honor the network. He extended his gratitude to Rupert Murdoch, Fox Corporation Chairman Emeritus; Lachlan Murdoch, Fox Corp Executive Chair and Chief Executive Officer; Suzanne Scott, FOX News Media CEO; and Jay Wallace, FOX News Media President and Executive Editor. Doocy described his experience as one of the original Midtown-based staff members.
Ainsley Earhardt reflected on the hosts' humble beginnings and their opportunity to flip the switch for such an iconic structure. Comparing the experience to the film "Sleepless in Seattle," she described being reminded of her 10-year-old self.
Brian Kilmeade, who reported battling laryngitis, joked that the building reminded him of the movie "Elf." He praised Fox News as a place that allows personalities to develop and be themselves. Kilmeade stated that on-air personalities are hired to be their authentic selves, a policy he called one of the most fortunate things that could happen to him personally. He added that while Fox would be successful without him, he is happy to be along for the ride.
Kilmeade offered specific praise for the network's leadership. He described Rupert Murdoch as relentless in opening up resources for the channel. He called Lachlan Murdoch cut out of the same mold and noted that Suzanne Scott earned her induction into the Broadcasting+Cable Hall of Fame. Kilmeade characterized Scott as unbelievable under pressure and capable of making great adjustments to the new marketplace. He also identified Jay Wallace as a success story who started at the bottom and is now at the top.
Suzanne Scott was indeed inducted into the Broadcasting+Cable Hall of Fame last week, joining other media leaders. Lawrence Jones, who has previously stated that Scott was instrumental in his career, called attending the ceremony a dream come true. Jones described Rupert Murdoch's actions 30 years ago as legendary, noting that Murdoch identified an untapped and underserved audience in the market. Jones said Lachlan Murdoch is keeping that tradition going.
Jones credited Suzanne Scott and Jay Wallace with giving him the opportunity of a lifetime 10 years ago. He stated that without their support, he would not be standing in a building he previously only saw in movies.
The co-hosts concluded the event by flipping the switch, lighting up the Empire State Building with Fox News’ signature colors.