Jeff Zucker’s new firm RedBird eyes Washington Post: report
Former CNN head honcho Jeff Zucker has joined the ranks of private equity firm RedBird IMI as he begins a new chapter in his career. The executive has been eyeing up media properties since his departure from CNN, including the Washington Post, Semafor, Puck, and Air Mail, according to a recent report. Zucker is reportedly working with RedBird, the $1bn-backed private equity firm, to explore the potential acquisition of media companies. While he has met with Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos and considered a deal for CNN, the publication notes that he has not recently been in talks to buy the network.
FAQs:
Who is Jeff Zucker?
Jeff Zucker is a former journalist and media executive who served as president of CNN Worldwide until 2021. He has also held notable positions at NBCUniversal and served as executive producer of The Today Show.
What is RedBird IMI?
RedBird IMI is a private equity firm that focuses on investing in sports, media, and entertainment ventures. The firm was founded by former Goldman Sachs partner Gerry Cardinale in 2018 and has raised $1bn in backing from big-name investors.
What media companies has Jeff Zucker been eyeing up?
According to a recent report, Zucker has been looking at media companies including the Washington Post, Semafor, Puck, and Air Mail.
Is Jeff Zucker trying to buy CNN?
While Zucker has explored a deal for CNN in the past, the report notes that he has not been in talks to buy the network recently.
What is Air Mail?
Air Mail is a media company founded by former Vanity Fair editor Graydon Carter that produces a weekly email newsletter and website. Zucker is reportedly one of three suitors exploring a deal to take a majority stake in the company.
Report: RedBird, Jeff Zucker’s new venture, considering acquisition of Washington Post.
Former CNN chief Jeff Zucker has reportedly joined private equity firm RedBird IMI and is eyeing media companies such as the Washington Post, Semafor, Puck, and Air Mail. According to the New York Times, RedBird has received $1bn in backing from investors in media and finance. Zucker has met with Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, owner of the Washington Post, as well as scouting deals with media startups Semafor and Puck. Zucker is also one of three potential investors exploring a deal for a majority stake in Air Mail. Despite past interest in purchasing CNN, Zucker has not been in talks to acquire the network.