from bumppo.net
The New York Post's Peter Luria reports that NBC Universal chairman Bob Wright is may step down in favor of NBC TV CEO Jeff Zucker, "possibly by the end of this year." While such a succession was not unexpected, the timing is (and Post's sources also indicate that it's not coming from Wright). NBC gave what the Post called a "vehement" denial but which was actually a non-denial denial: "[A] decision like this can only be made by the chairman of GE and the board of directors, and no decision has been made."
Also notable in this mix is the defection of NBCU Television Networks Group President Randy Falco who is leaving NBC after 30 years to become chairman and CEO of AOL, replacing the just-ousted Jonathan Miller.
Despite the falling fortunes and poor performance of NBC's entertainment division following the demise of "Frasier" and "Friends" (two words: "Joey") and the massive layoffs and cuts announced earlier this year, Zucker's position within NBC has seemed airtight (Kurt Andersen wondered New York a year ago: "After NBC's annus horribilis, will he get fired — or promoted?"). Zucker weathered that year, with the only rumors of his ouster being vociferously defended by all concerned. Now, according to the Post, responsibility for NBCU's woes is coming back to roost with Wright, not Zucker (Wright orchestrated the 2004 merger of NBC with Vivendi Universal into NBCU). We already know it's good news for Howie Mandel; we'll see about NBC.
