Gretchen Carlson settles sexual harassment case against Fox News for $20 million

It looks as though Fox News really, really didn't want to see former host Gretchen Carlson's sexual harassment lawsuit make it to court.

Vanity Fair reports that Fox and Carlson have agreed to a massive $20 million settlement of her sexual harassment claims -- and she's even received an official apology from the network over the treatment she received from former Fox News CEO Roger Ailes.

"During her tenure at Fox News, Gretchen exhibited the highest standards of journalism and professionalism," Fox News parent company 21st Century Fox said in an official statement announcing the settlement. "She developed a loyal audience and was a daily source of information for many Americans. We are proud that she was part of the Fox News team. We sincerely regret and apologize for the fact that Gretchen was not treated with the respect that she and all our colleagues deserve."

Carlson expressed gratitude to the network for taking her claims seriously and she said she hoped the case would give courage to other women to speak out if they're being harassed in their workplaces.

"I am gratified that 21st Century Fox took decisive action after I filed my complaint," she said. "I'm ready to move on to the next chapter of my life in which I will redouble my efforts to empower women in the workplace. I want to thank all the brave women who came forward to tell their own stories and the many people across the country who embraced and supported me in their #StandWithGretchen. All women deserve a dignified and respectful workplace. "

Carlson filed a lawsuit back in early July alleging that she was fired from her job for refusing to have sex with Fox News CEO Roger Ailes. Less than a month later, Ailes stepped down from his role as CEO after sexual harassment allegations from several other women against him came to light.