ESPN President John Skipper Resigns Due to Substance Abuse

ESPN president John Skipper resigned on Monday citing substance addiction for the reason.

Skipper has been with EPSN for twenty years since joining back in 1997 as senior vice president and general manager of ESPN The Magazine. He became president of the company in 2012.

As ESPN now searches for a new president, former president and executive chairman George Bodenheimer will take his place and act as chair for the next 90 days.

Skipper released the following 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.”

He also said, “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.”

Skipper has also leaved Disney and the decision to leave was mutual. He has requested privacy during this time.

Disclaimer: We have no position in Walt Disney Co. (NYSE: DIS) and have not been compensated for this article.