John Skipper has resigned as ESPN president and co-chairman of the Disney Media Networks, citing struggles with “substance addiction.” George Bodenheimer, who was ESPN’s president from 1998-2011 and its executive chairman until May 2014, will take over on an interim basis.
“I have struggled for many years with a substance addiction,” Skipper said Monday in a statement. “I have decided that the most important thing I can do right now is to take care of my problem.”
“I come to this public disclosure with embarrassment, trepidation and a feeling of having let others I care about down,” the 61-year-old executive added.
Here is Skipper’s full statement:
Today I have resigned from my duties as President of ESPN.
I have had a wonderful career at The Walt Disney Company and am grateful for the many opportunities and friendships. I owe a debt to many, but most profoundly Michael Lynton, George Bodenheimer and Bob Iger.
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.
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.
I come to this public disclosure with embarrassment, trepidation and a feeling of having let others I care about down.
As I deal with this issue and what it means to me and my family, I ask for appropriate privacy and a little understanding.
To my colleagues at ESPN, it has been a privilege. I take great pride in your accomplishments and have complete confidence in your collective ability to continue ESPN’s success.
Skipper joined ESPN in 1997 as senior vice president and general manager of ESPN The Magazine. He was promoted to his current job on Jan. 1, 2012, when he took over for Bodenheimer.
“I join John Skipper’s many friends and colleagues across the company in wishing him well during this challenging time,” Disney chief Bob Iger said in his own statement. “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. I am grateful for George’s support and look forward to working with him again in this temporary role.”
Though Disney purchased most of 21st Century Fox last week, the Mouse House will not get ESPN’s main rival, Fox Sports 1, in the deal.