It’s done: NBC chief Jeff Gaspin, as long expected, has decided to leave the Peacock once Comcast takes over. Gaspin is best known as the guy who took the heat for Jeff Zucker when NBC chose Leno over Conan earlier this year. More clarity on the future shape of the network’s post-merger exec structure could come as soon as Wednesday, industry sources say.
The full text of Gaspin’s e-mail announcing his departure is below:
Even though there has been much speculation in the press I wanted you to hear directly from me.
During the course of the Comcast/GE merger, I’ve had many good conversations with Steve Burke about my role at the new NBC Universal. Under the current structure, all of the television entertainment assets including cable, broadcast, and distribution report to me.
As is his prerogative, Steve has determined that he wants to move in a different direction and given the scope of my current responsibilities, we could not agree on an appropriate role for me in the new company. Therefore I will be departing NBC Universal a short time after the merger.
I have spent a combined 19 years at NBC Universal and have had numerous positions in finance, news, cable, and broadcast. While we have had our challenges on the entertainment broadcast side, I am proud of the progress we have made and the tremendous success of our outstanding cable assets, our strong distribution divisions and our market-leading digital innovation. It’s with great pride and appreciation I was able to participate in many of these successful ventures.
I leave NBC Universal with an obvious sense of sadness and loss, but I’ll be forever grateful for my relationships with my colleagues and those who gave me a chance to participate in the success of this great company. It’s been an exhilarating ride - and I thank you for sharing it with me.
