Skip Bayless Accused of Indecent Proposal

Skip Bayless was hit with a sexual harassment lawsuit Friday after allegedly offering hairstylist Noushin Faraji $1.5 million for sex, among other repeated, unwanted advances, according to The Wrap.

Also named as co-defendants in the suit were his former employer Fox Sports, where Faraji was employed as a hairstylist for over a decade 2012–2024, and its parent company, Fox Corporation. FS1, FS2, Fox Sports EVP Charlie Dixon and FS1 host Joy Taylor are also named.

Faraji asked for undisclosed monetary compensation for herself and other non-exempt Fox employees in California.

According to court documents obtained and reviewed by TheWrap, Dixon is accused of approaching Faraji at a birthday party in 2017, putting his arm on her lower back and moving “his hand lower and … rubbing her body and grabbing her buttocks.”

Bayless — who has been married since 2016 — is accused of pursuing Faraji for years and commenting that he could “change” her life if they had sex. In 2021, Faraji had a cancer scare and confided in Bayless, the documents say, in hopes that he would stop pursuing her.

“Instead, Mr. Bayless told her that he wanted to be with her,” the documents continue. “Ms. Faraji panicked and began rambling that there were cameras everywhere, that she has a child, and that she does not want him. Mr. Bayless then grabbed her hands, began kissing them and offered her $1.5 million to have sex. Ms. Faraji made an excuse to leave.”

The suit also claims that Bayless continued to be aggressive toward the hairstylist. In 2022 he reportedly accused her of having sex with host Shannon Sharpe and Faraji felt her job was threatened.

Faraji is seeking compensatory damages, emotional distress damages, punitive damages, attorney’s fees and a trial by jury.

Skip Bayless' career has been marked by controversy, criticism and success.

Early Career

Bayless began his career as a journalist, writing for newspapers like The Dallas Times Herald and The Miami Herald. He transitioned to television in the 1990s, working as a studio analyst for ESPN and later as a commentator for Fox Sports.

Rise to Prominence

Bayless gained widespread recognition as the co-host of ESPN's "Cold Pizza" (2003-2007) and later as the lead commentator on Fox Sports 1's "Fox Sports Live" (2013-2016). His provocative commentary and debates with colleagues made him a household name.

Controversies

• Criticism of LeBron James: Bayless repeatedly criticized LeBron James, sparking public feuds and accusations of racism.
• Support for Greg Hardy: Bayless defended NFL player Greg Hardy amid domestic violence allegations, drawing widespread criticism.
• Anti-Tony Romo Stance: Bayless repeatedly criticized quarterback Tony Romo, leading to accusations of bias.
• Debate with Stephen A. Smith: Bayless engaged in heated debates with ESPN's Stephen A. Smith, leading to allegations of racial insensitivity.
• Accusations of Homophobia: Bayless faced backlash over comments perceived as homophobic regarding NFL player Michael Sam.

Career Highlights

• Founding Fox Sports 1's "Skip and Shannon: Undisputed": Bayless co-hosted popular debate show with Shannon Sharpe.
• Author and Podcaster: Bayless wrote "God's Coach: The Hymns, Hymnals and Hallelujahs of My Life" and hosts "The Skip Bayless Show" podcast.
• Social Media Presence: Bayless has millions of followers across platforms.

Criticisms:

• Divisive Commentary: Bayless's opinions often spark intense debate and criticism.
• Lack of Objectivity: Detractors accuse Bayless of bias and agenda-driven commentary.
• Sensationalism: Some argue Bayless prioritizes controversy over nuanced analysis.