Gretchen Carlson, at Center of Fox News Controversy, Has Deep Minnesota Ties

21st Century Fox announced Tuesday that it had settled the lawsuit brought against it by former Fox News anchor Gretchen Carlson. Carlson had alleged widespread sexual harassment from former Fox News chairman Roger Ailes, who eventually resigned after several other women at the network came forward with similar claims.

"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," Carlson said in a statement.

"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 in which talent, hard work and loyalty are recognized, revered and rewarded."

Carlson, a Minnesota native, rocked the TV news world with her suit and claims.

Carlson's Minnesota credentials are unquestionable.

Originally from Anoka, Minnesota, Carlson was babysat by former Minnesota Congresswoman Michele Bachmann. Carlson played the violin for the Minnesota Orchestra when she was 13. She was crowned Miss America in 1989 while representing Minnesota.

Video shows her performing her violin talent at the 1989 Miss America Pageant:

Carlson also continues to be an avid Minnesota Vikings fan.

She agonized along with every other Vikings fan when kicker Blair Walsh missed a last-minute field goal last season against the Seahawks during the first round of the NFL playoffs.

In 2006, Carlson became a host of the popular "Fox & Friends" morning program. She continued to host until 2013.

"Although this was a difficult step to take, I had to stand up for myself and speak out for all women and the next generation of women in the workplace."

Carlson said Ailes made unwanted sexual advances toward her and then refused to renew her contract after she declined them. Her civil complaint claims Ailes would ogle her in his office and make off-color remarks about her appearance in passing.

According to Politico, Carlson's lawyers say she was once chastised for answering a question from a hometown newspaper about her favorite Minnesota State Fair food.

Carlson said Ailes called her "sexy" but "too much hard work."

Ailes, who worked as a media consultant for Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush, is advising Donald Trump as the GOP nominee prepares for the presidential debates.

Image via Youtube