NBCUniversal boss Jeff Shell steps down over inappropriate conduct

Comcast parent company of NBCUniversal has announced the company’s CEO Jeff Shell will be stepping down from his role and will exit the company effective immediately following inappropriate conduct.

An investigation was launched by the company into a complaint of inappropriate conduct by the NBCUniversal boss which was led by outside counsel.

In a statement, Shell commented: “Today is my last day as CEO of NBCUniversal. I had an inappropriate relationship with a woman in the company, which I deeply regret. I’m truly sorry I let my Comcast and NBCUniversal colleagues down, they are the most talented people in the business and the opportunity to work with them the last 19 years has been a privilege.”

Shell took over the role from former NBCU CEO Steve Burke following his retirement in 2020. He previously served as chairman of NBCU Film and Entertainment and NBCUniversal International. The former CEO was also president of FOX cable network group as well as Comcast programming group. 

Deadline reported that the complaint of inappropriate conduct came from a CNBC anchor who Shell has started a relationship with about 11 years ago whilst being married.

The announcement come as Comcast revealed a $2.5 billion annual loss for streaming platform Peacock during 2022 alongside a boost of subscribers after hitting 20 million.

NBCU staff will report to Comcast president Mike Cavanagh, in the company’s search for Shell’s successor.