CNN President Jeff Zucker abruptly resigned Wednesday after acknowledging a consensual relationship with another network executive, ending a nine-year tenure at the helm of the one of the largest media companies in the U.S.
Zucker said he admitted to the relationship when asked about it as part of an investigation into Chris Cuomo, the former CNN anchor fired after aiding his brother, then-New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, in navigating a sexual harassment investigation.
“I was required to disclose it when it began but I didn’t,” Zucker wrote. “I was wrong.”
It was not immediately clear who would run CNN while a permanent replacement is sought.
Chris Cuomo helped craft his his brother’s responses to sexual harassment charges, according to emails and a transcript of his testimony to investigators working for state Attorney General Letitia James. Her office found Andrew Cuomo sexually harassed at least 11 women. The former governor resigned in August to avoid a likely impeachment trial.
In a statement Zucker said he wished that his tenure had ended differently but, “it was an amazing run. And I loved every minute.”
Allison Gollust, CNN’s executive vice-president and chief marketing officer, acknowledged the relationship in a separate memo.
“Jeff and I have been close friends and professional partners for over 20 years. Recently, our relationship changed during COVID,” she said. “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.”
Prior to joining CNN, Gollust served as communications director for Andrew Cuomo, according to a biography posted on the CNN website.
Zucker was named chairman of WarnerMedia News and Sports in March 2019. He has also served as president of CNN Worldwide since 2013.
Zucker oversaw all of WarnerMedia’s live programming, including all divisions of CNN Worldwide and Turner Sports. At CNN, that includes the U.S. television network, CNN International, HLN, and CNN’s digital properties. His sports portfolio includes Turner Sports, and Bleacher Report.
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