Chris Licht steps down as CNN boss
CNN CEO Chris Licht has resigned from his post after a magazine profile drew criticism from network staffers and senior figures. CNN’s parent company, Warner Bros. Discovery, made the announcement. Licht assumed the CEO role just over a year ago, succeeding Jeff Zucker, who resigned over a relationship with a subordinate. According to a source, Licht has said that CNN deserves better leadership. Warner Bros. Discovery will replace Licht with a group of senior programming executives in an interim capacity, citing execution, editorial, programming, and commercial leadership. David Leavy, chief operating officer of Warner Bros. Discovery, will spearhead the commercial division.
FAQs:
Who is Chris Licht?
Chris Licht was the CEO of CNN until his resignation. He took over from Jeff Zucker.
Why did he resign?
Chris Licht resigned after a magazine profile drew criticism from network staffers and senior figures.
Who will replace him?
A group of senior programming executives has been named to replace Chris Licht in the interim, while David Leavy will spearhead the commercial division.
CNN Boss Chris Licht Resigns from Position
CNN’s CEO, Chris Licht, has resigned from his position effective immediately following a recent magazine profile that resulted in alienating CNN staff and key senior figures who called for his resignation. Chris Licht took over the position from former network boss Jeff Zucker who was forced to resign due to revelations of a relationship with a subordinate. However, Licht accused Zucker of planting negative stories about the news operation, ultimately undermining his leadership. Warner Bros. Discovery, CNN’s corporate parent, has since announced a group of seasoned programming leaders, including Amy Entelis, Virginia Moseley, and Eric Sherling, as interim replacements for Licht. David Leavy, a longtime trusted aide to Zaslav and the recently installed chief operating officer, will head the commercial side. Chris Licht is reported to have told outraged supporters that he hopes “they get the leader they deserve.”