Former President Donald Trump expressed surprise and shock at Fox News host Tucker Carlson's sudden departure from the network and the network's decision to settle the 2020 election Dominion Voting Systems case. Trump praised Carlson, calling him a "very good person," a "very good man," and "very talented" during an interview with Newsmax host Greg Kelly that aired late Monday.

The former president also noted that Carlson had high ratings and had particularly supported him in the last year.

Tucker Carlson's Unexpected Exit

Carlson's departure came as a surprise to many, including the host himself, reported Daily Times. Fox News CEO Suzanne Scott informed him of the decision, which was made "from above." It is still unclear why Carlson was let go, but some sources speculate it could be part of a plan to sell Fox News.

The network only released a statement thanking Carlson for his work and confirming that his last show aired on Friday, with no further details about his departure. Staff members at the network were stunned by the news.

Trump's Reaction

Donald Trump, who is running for the 2024 GOP nomination, shared his thoughts on the matter during his interview with Kelly. The former president said he was shocked by Carlson's departure from Fox News; he suggested that perhaps Carlson left because he wanted "free rein" at the network. 

'I'm not representing them at all by any means but the Tucker situation - you don't know if it's a firing, maybe he left because he wasn't given a free rein - he wants free rein maybe,' Trump said.

Controversies Surrounding Tucker Carlson

While the exact reason for Carlson's departure remains unknown, some speculate that his involvement in the Dominion Voting Systems defamation case played a role. Text messages between Carlson and his producer revealed embarrassing sentiments about Trump and the network's senior leadership.

Abby Grossberg, a former top booker on Carlson's show, has also filed a lawsuit against him and Fox for a hostile workplace, sexual harassment, and other alleged wrongs.

Fox News Settles with Dominion Voting Systems

Carlson's exit comes less than a week after Fox agreed to pay $787 million in settlement money to Dominion Voting Systems as part of a defamation suit brought by the company.

The suit was connected to Trump's claims about the 2020 election and Dominion's software. Trump, who has grown increasingly critical of Fox in recent months, had urged Rupert Murdoch, the owner and chairman of Fox Corp., to embrace his assertions about voter fraud to win in court.

During the interview with Kelly, Trump expressed his surprise at the settlement, saying, "I thought that was a case that should easily be won." 

The Impact of Tucker Carlson's Departure

Tucker Carlson has been a prominent voice in conservative media, often offering a platform for views aligned with Trump and his base. His departure from Fox News has left a significant void in the network's lineup, with many wondering who will fill the prime-time spot.

With the future of Carlson's career unclear, there is speculation about where he may go next. Some believe he could find a new home at a conservative media outlet, while others suggest he might venture into the podcasting or streaming world.

Given his influence and popularity, his next move will likely be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike.

"Tucker Carlson Tonight": The End of an Era

Carlson has high ratings on his show "Tucker Carlson Tonight" on Fox News. He has contributed to Fox News' status as the leading cable news network, boasting an average prime-time viewership of 2.5 million and 359,000 viewers in the crucial demographic.

Carlson's show has consistently ranked as the highest-rated program in this demographic across all cable news channels. With Tuckor Carlosn's exit from Fox News, an era has ended.

Fox News in a Post-Carlson Chapter

As Fox News moves forward without Tucker Carlson, the network will face a series of challenges in maintaining its conservative viewership. With an already competitive landscape, including outlets like Newsmax and One America News, Fox must adapt to a changing media environment.