CNN president Jeff Zucker announced Wednesday he's resigning from the executive position, writing in a memo that he failed to disclose to the company "a consensual relationship" with another senior executive at the cable news network.
"Jeff Zucker just announced his resignation to a stunned CNN," commented "Reliable Sources" host Brian Stelter, confirming the move Wednesday.
Jeff Zucker just announced his resignation to a stunned CNN. pic.twitter.com/sWXYNBO20d
— Brian Stelter (@brianstelter) February 2, 2022
"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 wrote. "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," the CNN boss wrote to colleagues.
In the explosive letter, Zucker was reportedly referring to CNN's executive vice president and chief marketing officer Allison Gollust, one of the highest-ranking leaders at the nework, who has close involvement in major business and communications decisions, according to The New York Times.
Gollust said in a statement Wednesday that she was remaining in her role at CNN, according to The New York Times. Zucker and Gollust are both divorced.
"Jeff and I have been close friends and professional partners for over 20 years,” Gollust wrote, per The Times. "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."
Zucker is also the chairman of WarnerMedia's news and sports division. The abrupt end of Zucker's reign leads to further uncertainty for CNN and its parent company which is expected to be acquired later in the year by Discovery Inc. in one of the nation's largest media mergers, The New York Times reported.
"Together, we had nine great years," Zucker wrote. "I certainly wish my tenure here had ended differently. But it was an amazing run. And I loved every minute."
Zucker's resignation follows the firing of CNN personality Chris Cuomo for aiding his older brother, disgraced ex-Gov. Andrew Cuomo, after the former New York governor was accused of sexual harassment amid a misconduct scandal.
In late December, a producer for CNN host Jake Tapper resigned after it was revealed that he allegedly solicited sexually explicit photos of an underage girl. Accused pedophile Rick Saleeby is confirmed to be under criminal investigation after police seized devices from the "The Lead with Jake Tapper" producer.