Founder of the conservative US news network Fox News, Roger Ailes, has died.

Ailes’ wife Elizabeth released a statement early Thursday confirming his death.

He was 77.

Ailes was a powerful figure in US politics, having served as advisor to several US Presidents including Richard Nixon and George H.W Bush.

He founded the conservative news network in 1996, leading it for decades and making it the number one cable news outlet in the country and the most powerful voice in conservative media.

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He resigned as CEO last year amid a string of s*xual assault allegations against him.

“During a career that stretched over more than five decades, his work in entertainment, in politics, and in news affected the lives of many millions.” wife Elizabeth’s statement read.

“And so even as we mourn his death, we celebrate his life.” it added.