Maria Ryan, a former hospital CEO and radio host, is suing WABC and its owner John Catsimatidis, claiming she was fired from her show “Uncovering the Truth” due to gender discrimination. Ryan, who hosted the show with Rudy Giuliani, alleges that she was paid below her male counterparts and was forced to provide her medical credentials to prove her qualifications.
Ryan claims that she repeatedly brought her concerns to WABC President Chad Lopez, but was met with blame and inaction. She also alleges that she was falsely accused of playing unauthorized music on the show and was threatened with removal because she mentioned Newsmax on the air.
Catsimatidis has rejected Ryan’s claims, stating that she was not treated differently than any other WABC employee and that she was paid appropriately. He also claims that Giuliani was suspended from the air for disregarding WABC instructions and that Ryan’s contract was terminated as a result.
Ryan denies rumors that she and Giuliani were romantically involved, stating that they are only professional colleagues and friends. Giuliani is also expected to sue the station for wrongful termination, with his attorney claiming that he was retaliated against for standing up for Ryan’s rights.
The lawsuit is the latest in a series of controversies surrounding WABC and its ownership. The station has been accused of fostering a hostile work environment and discriminating against women.