Rob King, one of ESPN’s top executives, is no longer with the network.
According to a report from New York Post sports media columnist Andrew Marchand, ESPN fired King for allegations of harassment. Marchand wrote, “The harassment allegations were due to social media posts, which were brought to the attention of ESPN’s Human Resources, according to sources.”
However, King said he is resigning from ESPN. As the Post story was being published online, King tweeted, “After nearly 20 years with ESPN, I have decided the time is right for me to leave the company. I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family and friends, and wish the company continued success.”
Aside from his work at ESPN, King is a member of the Poynter Institute’s Board of Trustees. He also is a member of The Associated Press’ Board of Directors.
King was ESPN’s executive editor at large, special projects. ESPN described King as “responsible for the company’s overall journalistic direction, working closely with leaders across ESPN Films and original content, digital content, social media, multi-platform journalism and storytelling and global content, and advises ESPN and its senior leadership team on editorial issues.”
Before that, King had held many top jobs at ESPN, including senior vice president of original content, senior vice president of “SportsCenter” and news, and vice president and editor-in-chief of ESPN.com.
ESPN declined to comment. Reached by Poynter, King said he would let his social media post stand for now.
ESPN is expected to have significant layoffs in the next four to six weeks, but Marchand reported Tuesday’s news about King is unrelated.
Several ESPN personalities reacted on Twitter, including Sarah Spain, who tweeted, “Wouldn’t be who I am or where I am without @ESPN_RobKing. One of my biggest mentors, best sounding boards & truest allies. I always felt supported, heard & safe b/c of Rob. And he’s the mystery exec who spotted me on Twitter & gave me my biggest break. Forever grateful, Rob.”
