Tue Mar 18 19:50:00 UTC 2025: **Hannity Pleaded with Trump to Spare Fox News and Murdochs Amidst 2023 Feud**
NEW YORK – A new book reveals that Fox News host Sean Hannity directly intervened to prevent Donald Trump from attacking the network and the Murdoch family in early 2023. According to excerpts from Alex Isenstadt’s “Revenge: The Inside Story of Trump’s Return to Power,” Hannity pleaded with Trump to cease his attacks, fearing damage to both Fox News and the ongoing legal battles, specifically the Dominion Voting Systems defamation lawsuit.
The feud stemmed from Trump’s accusations of collusion between Fox News and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Hannity’s urgent pleas, including a phone call where he reportedly begged Trump to “lay off,” were reportedly overheard by his staff. While Trump initially expressed some understanding, he ultimately continued some criticisms of the network.
The conflict escalated during the period leading up to Fox News’ $787.5 million settlement with Dominion. Reports circulated that Fox News executives were attempting to distance themselves from Trump, and several pundits openly supported DeSantis. Trump responded with public criticism, accusing Fox News of promoting “fake news” and even suggesting Murdoch should leave the news business.
The situation eased after Rupert Murdoch’s resignation as chairman of Fox Corporation and News Corp in September 2023. Since then, the clashes between Trump and Fox News have subsided, though the incident highlights the complex and sometimes tense relationship between the former president and the conservative news network.
First Piper 