Lee Fitting, WWE’s Head of Media and Production, was reportedly dismissed from ESPN in August 2023 following allegations of workplace misconduct. Fitting, who spent over 25 years with ESPN, is credited with elevating College GameDay into one of the network’s flagship programs. His departure was confirmed in a memo by ESPN executive Norby Williamson. According to reports, security accompanied Fitting out of the building on the day of his termination.
The allegations, detailed by The New York Times, include claims from anonymous former female ESPN employees who accused Fitting of creating a hostile work environment. They allege he objectified women, criticized their physical appearance, and made inappropriate jokes, some of a sexual nature.
- In a 2012 meeting, Fitting reportedly commented that a woman (not present) could “open her throat” to down a beer, adding that this implied she’d excel at fellatio.
- During a 2014 meeting, he allegedly told a woman without a chair, “I’ve got a seat for you right here,” while gesturing to his lap.
- Asking female staffers for their hotel room numbers.
- Bragging about his and his wife’s sex life to colleagues.
- Dismissing complaints about crude remarks by labeling women as “no fun” or claiming his comments were acceptable as the women were “one of the guys.”
- Telling a female talent he wanted her in a ponytail and allegedly saying, “Put your hair up in a ponytail before I do it for you,” after she had already been through hair and makeup.
- Criticizing a female staffer’s on-air laugh, saying he found it annoying.
In 2023, a formal complaint to ESPN’s human resources department led to an internal investigation. Shortly thereafter, Fitting was dismissed from the company. One woman involved in the investigation told The New York Times, “It finally caught up to him.” Another remarked, “I can’t believe it took this long.” Fitting has denied some allegations through a spokesperson but declined to address claims of mistreatment or provide reasons for his departure from ESPN.
Fitting joined WWE later in 2023, succeeding Kevin Dunn as head of production. Fans have praised his contributions, particularly the removal of rapid camera cuts that defined Dunn’s 40-year tenure. Despite this acclaim, WWE declined to comment on the allegations against Fitting when approached by The New York Times.
WWE is currently facing unrelated legal challenges, including a lawsuit involving alleged abuse of minors, further fueling scrutiny of its corporate practices. This is a developing situation.