In a surprising twist of events, veteran TMZ reporter Van Lathan was fired from his position at the gossip media company after a heated disagreement with co-worker and reporter Michael Babcock.
Apparently, during a live taping of the show TMZ Live, Lathan and Babcock got into a dispute about politics. Lathan, who tends to lean more left on his political beliefs did not agree with some things that right-wing supporter Babcock said. The original footage showing the verbal showdown was left on the editing floor and not aired.
According to Page Six, Lathan allegedly confronted Babcock after the segment to tell him that there would be “trouble if Babcock embarrassed him on TV again”.
It didn’t take long before the TV personality was called in to meet with HR and attorneys. He was suspended and then, shortly after, fired.
Lathan made an indirect comment on Instagram saying he was ok.
It is common knowledge that Lathan has put in a substantial amount of significant and impactful work to help build the TMZ brand. His impact has extended beyond his post at the entertainment company with his podcast ‘The Red Pill” and several appearances on other platforms.
This scenario has played over and over again where talented people will invest years of their lives into a company and help build its rapport with diverse audiences only to lose their position when they oppose the status quo or an individual in the organization that holds a more powerful standing as the result of politics, favoritism or pure discrimination.
It wouldn’t be surprising if a lawsuit or settlement is not in the works. Stay tuned.
