CNN faced a wave of backlash on Wednesday after the president of the network, Jeff Zucker, resigned after admitting to a romantic relationship with a colleague.

Zucker sent out a memo to employees, revealing the investigation into former anchor Chris Cuomo also uncovered Zucker’s relationship with CNN executive Allison Gollust.

“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 stated.

“I acknowledged the relationship evolved in recent years. I was required to disclose it when it began but I didn’t. I was wrong.” Zucker added, “As a result, I am resigning today.”

Following the announcement, Zucker’s name began trending on Twitter with viewers and members of the media slamming his leadership at the network.

“Over the years, CNN has gone from a news channel I respected to a complete embarrassment. Jeff Zucker has been a big reason why,” one person wrote.

Ian Millhiser, a senior correspondent at Vox also blamed Zucker for ruining the network’s potential. “I feel like Jeff Zucker has done an objectively terrible job of running CNN.” he tweeted.

“Its ratings are in the toilet. And I have no idea who they view as their target audience, or even if it has occurred to them to target a particular audience.”

Prior to running CNN, Zucker was the president and CEO of NBC Universal. Although he has resigned from his position, Gollust will remain at the network and continue her role as the executive vice president and chief marketing officer for CNN Worldwide.

CNN president Jeff Zucker has resigned for failing to disclose a romantic relationship with a colleague
CNN president Jeff Zucker has resigned for failing to disclose a romantic relationship with a colleague AFP / Angela Weiss
RELATED STORIES
Twitter