CNN boss resigns over relationship with colleague

Author Moonshot.news

Published on: 03/02/2022

CNN Worldwide president Jeff Zucker resigned with immediate effect because of a relationship to one of his colleagues. Zucker’s announcement came a couple of months after he fired anchor man Chris Cuomo for improperly advising his brother who was New York governor about how to handle allegations of sexual misconduct.

“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,” Zucker told employees in a memo. “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.”

CNN reports that “Zucker did not name his colleague, but the relationship is with Allison Gollust, his key lieutenant for the last two decades. Gollust is remaining at CNN.”

Zucker and Gollust began working together at NBC in 1998. When Zucker joined CNN, he hired Gollust. She is currently executive vice president and chief marketing officer at CNN.

CNN reports Gollust issued her own statement saying:

“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. I’m incredibly proud of my time at CNN and look forward to continuing the great work we do everyday.”

CNN said Zucker had indicated that he would have liked to stay on for a short period to help with a smooth transition, but the owner WarnerMedia wanted otherwise.

“According to two people involved in the matter, Zucker was facing termination if he did not resign.”

In an email to staffers Wednesday afternoon, Jason Kilar, the CEO of CNN parent WarnerMedia, said three senior executives will lead CNN until the merger with Discovery is complete: Michael Bass, Amy Entelis, and Ken Jautz.