CNN president Jeff Zucker resigns after failing to disclose 'consensual relationship' with colleague

"I certainly wish my tenure here had ended differently. But it was an amazing run. And I loved every minute," Zucker said in a message to CNN's employees.

Zucker, 56, said his resignation would be effective immediately.

Zucker, one of the most powerful media executives in the United States, was appointed as the head of CNN in 2013.

In his message, Zucker, as quoted by AFP, said that as part of an investigation into a CNN anchor, he was "asked about a consensual relationship with my closest colleague, someone I have worked with for more than 20 years."

"I acknowledged the relationship evolved in recent years. I was required to disclose it when it began but I didn't. I was wrong," he said.

The colleague has been identified by CNN as the chief marketing officer Allison Gollust.

She had reportedly said that she would remain with CNN.

"Jeff and I have been close friends and professional partners for over 20 years," Gollust said in a statement published by CNN.

"Recently, our relationship changed during Covid. I regret that we didn't disclose it at the right time. I'm incredibly proud of my time at CNN and look forward to continuing the great work we do every day," her statement said.

Both Zucker and Gollust are divorced, a report by The New York Times said.