Jeff Zucker, the head of CNN Worldwide, has resigned after failing to disclose a consensual relationship with a coworker.
Zucker’s relationship was with CNN marketing chief Allison Gollust, with whom the now-former CNN president has long been linked. According to broadcaster Brian Stelter, Gollust will remain at CNN.
“As part of the investigation into Chris Cuomo’s tenure at CNN, I was asked about a consensual relationship with my closest colleague, someone I have worked with for more than 20 years. I acknowledged the relationship evolved in recent years. I was required to disclose it when it began but I didn’t. I was wrong. As a result, I am resigning today,” Zucker wrote in a memo to staffers shared by CNN’s Brian Stelter.
“I came to CNN on January 28, 2013. Together, we had nine great years. I certainly wish my tenure here had ended differently. But it was an amazing run. And I loved every minute,” Zucker continued. “I am grateful to the thousands of incredibly talented CNN and Turner Sports employees who helped make this such a joy for me, and such a success for all of us. I wish each of you nothing but the best in the years ahead.”
Zucker, who took over the news organization in 2013 and helped create it, is alleged to have resigned or faced firing for not disclosing his relationship with someone with whom he worked closely.
Employees must not recruit or oversee (directly or indirectly) someone with whom they have a personal relationship, according to WarnerMedia’s (CNN’s parent company) Standards of Business Conduct handbook.
“Jeff and I have been close friends and professional partners for over 20 years. Recently, our relationship changed during COVID. I regret that we didn’t disclose it at the right time,”
Gollust said in a statement.
Jason Kilar, the CEO of WarnerMedia, accepted Zucker’s resignation.
“I have accepted Jeff Zucker’s resignation as Chairman of WarnerMedia News and Sports, and President of CNN Worldwide. We thank Jeff for his contributions over the past 9 years,” Kilar said in a statement.
On an interim basis, CNN executives Michael Bass, Amy Entelis, and Ken Jautz will run the network.
