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NEW YORK: Right-wing radio host and television presenter Glenn Beck -- one of the most controversial media figures in the United States -- is leaving his daily show on the Fox News Channel to develop other projects.
“Glenn intends to transition off of his daily program,” Beck and Fox said in a joint statement.
Fox News and Mercury Radio Arts, Beck's production company, said they were “proud to announce that they will work together to develop and produce a variety of television projects for air on the Fox News Channel as well as content for other platforms including Fox News' digital properties.”
Beck has a very loyal following in the United States, especially among conservative circles, but has stirred controversy among Democratic and liberal circles with his opposition to President Barack Obama.
He notably accused Obama, America's first black president, of having a “deep-seated hatred for white people or the white culture.” The African American political organization ColorOfChange, which had called for a boycott of Beck's program, said it “strongly applauds” the news of his departure.
“Fox News Channel clearly understands that Beck's increasingly erratic behavior is a liability to their ratings and their bottom line, and we are glad to see them take this action,” it said in a statement.
Beck has been met with heavy criticism lately. He was condemned by US celebrities and media last month for calling the monster quake that rocked Japan a message from God.
And in August he attracted controversy for his rally to “restore America,”led by right-wing icons including former Alaska governor Sarah Palin, on the 47th anniversary of civil rights legend Martin Luther King Jr.'s “I Have a Dream” speech.
The rally, which attracted thousands of people, was also held at the Lincoln memorial on the National Mall, where King spoke.
