- John Skipper has resigned from ESPN after 20 years with the network
- He became president of the company in 2012 and was also a Disney Media Networks co-chairman
- ‘I have struggled for many years with a substance addiction. I have decided that the most important thing I can do is to take care of my problem,’ he said
- Skipper’s departure comes less than a week after Disney struck a deal to buy a large part of Twenty-First Century Fox Inc for $52.4 billion
The president of ESPN is stepping down from his position to deal with substance abuse issues.
John Skipper announced the news in a statement on Monday that took many by surprise, and led others to speculate that a damning story about the Disney Medua Networks co-chairman might not be far behind.
‘I have struggled for many years with a substance addiction. I have decided that the most important thing I can do right now is to take care of my problem,’ said the 61-year-old executive.
‘I have disclosed that decision to the company, and we mutually agreed that it was appropriate that I resign. I will always appreciate the human understanding and warmth that Bob displayed here and always.’
He then added: ‘I come to this public disclosure with embarrassment, trepidation and a feeling of having let others I care about down.’
Stepping down ; John Skipper (above in 2016) has resigned from ESPN after 20 years with the network
George Bodenheimer, who was ESPN’s president from 1998 to 2011 and executive chairman until May 2014, will be the acting chairman of the company for the next 90 days.
Skipper’s departure comes less than a week after Disney struck a deal to buy film, television and international businesses from Rupert Murdoch’s Twenty-First Century Fox Inc for $52.4 billion.
He took over his current roles in 2012, has led ESPN to a series of long-term, multiplatform agreements with major rights holders, including the National Basketball Association and the Major League Baseball.
‘I join John Skipper’s many friends and colleagues across the company in wishing him well during this challenging time,’ said Wal Disney Co. head honcho Bob Iger in a statement after the news was announced on Monday.
‘I respect his candor and support his decision to focus on his health and his family. With his departure, George Bodenheimer has agreed to serve as Acting Chair of ESPN for the next 90 days to provide interim leadership, help me identify and secure John’s successor, and ensure a smooth transition.’
He closed out by stating: ‘I am grateful for George’s support and look forward to working with him again in this temporary role.’