By Emmanuel Nduka
The influential CNN Worldwide President, Jeff Zucker, has announced his resignation from his position with immediate effect, after the exposure of his relationship with Allison Gollust, his key lieutenant for the last two decades.
While Gollust remains at CNN, Zucker’s striking announcement comes less than two months after he fired prime time, anchor Chris Cuomo for improperly advising his brother, then-New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, about how to address sexual misconduct allegations.
“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,” he added.
The two began working together at NBC in 1998. They rose through the ranks at the network together, and when Zucker joined CNN, Gollust was among his first hires.
Gollust who is currently the Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at CNN, worked briefly as Communications Director for Andrew Cuomo before coming to CNN.
In her statement, Gollust said, “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 every day.”
Meanwhile, news of Zucker’s resignation sent shockwaves inside CNN and across the industry, as CNN employees had no idea what was coming before Zucker’s email landed in their inboxes shortly after 11 a.m. ET.
Zucker, with Gollust on his leadership team, took over CNN in 2013, at a time when industry observers said the network was facing an identity crisis.
Zucker, a veteran of NBC, where he climbed from a producer on the “Today” show to President of the entire network, brought an eye for news and talent. He also brought a hands-on management style and gained the trust and respect of talent and staffers throughout the network.
