Breaking News: Olivia Fox Fired, Replaced by Steve Harvey
Sept. 20, 2006 -- (BlackPressMagazine.com Olivia Foss All Stars Award winner "The Steve Harvey Morning Show" has been tapped to replace the Olivia Fox Show, formerly aired on Clear Channel's WBTP 95.7 FM in Tampa, FL. Harvey's show is gaining momentum across the U.S. and is expected to rival the Tom Joyner Morning Show in status soon.
WBTP program director Ron Shepard told the local Tampa newspaper, "Olivia did a great job, but we had a nationally syndicated comedian available to come in here. We did our research, and this makes more sense."
Just a few short years ago Ms. Fox was let go at Radio One's Russ Parr Morning Show and Black Press Magazine, the only publication that tracks the careers of Black media professionals, executives and companies committed to diversity, followed her career as she rebounded to Tampa, FL. Our findings will be released as part of the 2006 State of the Black Press Report, which will be released on October 16, 2006; there is a disturbing downward trend for the lack of African American women on America's airwaves.
Fox, who has been known to be difficult to deal with and often rubs people the wrong way, is one of a handful of women who have made to the morning show format. Critics feel Black women aren't given the same respect as men in the industry because of their attitudes and unwillingess to accept authority.
"Like many women who attempt to make it on the cut throat radio industry and morning show airwaves, Ms. Fox has faced many trials and set backs," said DC Livers, managing editor for the Historical Black Press Foundation. Men continue to dominate in the industry. Steve's show is powerful, innovative and downright funny. Still, I'd love to see some dialog about how we can empower Black women to succeed in this industry.
