Roger Ailes (May 15, 1940 – May 18, 2017) was an American businessman and media consultant. He co-founded Fox News in 1996 and served as CEO until 2016. Ailes played a significant role in shaping conservative media in the United States and was known for his influential leadership style. Prior to Fox News, he worked as a media consultant for several Republican politicians, including Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, and George H.W. Bush. A controversial figure throughout his career, Ailes was credited with the growth and success of Fox News until his resignation amidst allegations of sexual harassment in 2016. Ailes passed away in 2017 at the age of 77.