John Skipper has resigned from his position as president of US sports broadcaster ESPN, citing a substance addiction problem.
ESPN said former president and executive chairman George Bodenheimer, who worked at the company from 1981 to 2014, will serve as acting chair of the company for the next 90 days, overseeing the transition process.
Skipper, one of the most senior figures in the sports-media industry, joined ESPN in 1997 and had served as executive vice-president of content, prior to being promoted. He took the helm as ESPN president and co-chairman of Disney Media Networks in January 2012.
Skipper said in a 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.”
Bob Iger, chairman and chief executive of the Walt Disney Company, added: “I join John Skipper’s many friends and colleagues across the company in wishing him well during this challenging time. I respect his candour 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.”