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Jeff Zucker has resigned as president of CNN Worldwide, effective immediately. The 56-year-old Zucker announced his resignation in a staff memo on Wednesday, explaining that the decision for him to resign was made after he failed to disclose a “consensual relationship” with a colleague.
The statement read in part: “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 did not disclose the colleague’s identity, but the network confirmed his relationship was with chief marketing officer Allison Gollust, who will continue to remain at the company.
Zucker added: “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. 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 served as president and CEO of NBCUniversal before taking the role of president of CNN Worldwide. Zucker was married to Caryn Nathanson from 1996 to 2019; the former couple share four children together.
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