America First Legal (AFL) has filed a lawsuit against CBS Broadcasting Inc. on behalf of its client, alleging discrimination based on race, age, and sexual orientation. The plaintiff, an Emmy Award-winning white male with over 30 years of experience in broadcast journalism, claims he was terminated for being a white, straight, older male. AFL asserts that this termination violates Title VII and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act.
In May 2022, after nearly seven years at CBS, General Manager Joel Vilmanay informed the plaintiff that he would be terminated within six months and that CBS was searching for his replacement. When questioned about the termination by Vice President News Director Mike Dello Stritto, the plaintiff was told: “It’s not about the ratings.” According to AFL, CBS replaced their client with a young black male who met the network's diversity criteria.
The lawsuit also highlights multiple instances where the plaintiff experienced discriminatory practices prior to his termination. He was excluded from CBS News’ 20th anniversary coverage of 9/11 despite being the only team member who reported from Ground Zero during the events of September 11, 2001. Additionally, he was omitted from a promotional campaign for CBS evening news while minority colleagues were included. After his replacement was hired, they were immediately added to this campaign.
Furthermore, AFL's client claims exclusion from annual events such as America Fest Fourth of July Ceremonies and Children Hospital fundraisers among others. He alleges he was also barred from field anchor opportunities like covering the LA Rams Super Bowl Victory Parade in February 2022.
This is AFL’s third lawsuit against entities in the entertainment industry for alleged illegal discrimination against white Americans. Previously, AFL sued Meta Platforms Inc., Paramount Global among others for similar reasons.
Gene Hamilton, Executive Director of America First Legal stated: “All racism is wrong. All racial discrimination is wrong. Making employment decisions using race as a factor in the process is racial discrimination and is wrong. We are proud to stand up for our client to vindicate his rights under long-settled law against what appears to be intentional and blatant discrimination by his employer because of his immutable characteristics.”
Hamilton further emphasized their commitment to fighting illegal discrimination: “Too many employers in the United States have abandoned their commitment to the law, and we look forward to holding them accountable for any illegal actions.”