Norby Williamson, who started at ESPN in the mail room in 1985, is leaving the network after nearly 40 years. As the Executive Editor & Head of Event and Studio Production, he oversaw NFL and college football content. His departure comes after ESPN's president of content, Burke Magnus, decided to move on from Williamson due to a misalignment in long-term strategy. Williamson was under contract through early 2027 and has had conflicts with on-air personnel, including a recent dispute with Pat McAfee.
Los Angeles Times Executive Editor Kevin Merida is stepping down after less than three years, citing career considerations and the need to be of value to the journalism profession. The departure comes as the newspaper faces challenges, including falling short of its digital subscriber goal. The Times, owned by Patrick and Michele Soon-Shiong, won three Pulitzer Prizes under Merida's leadership. Soon-Shiong stated the need to build a sustainable business for growth and innovation, and the LA Times Guild expressed support for finding a successor with vision and clarity for the future.
Kevin Merida, the executive editor of the Los Angeles Times, announced his departure from the company after three years in the role, citing a decision made in consultation with the owner, Patrick Soon-Shiong. The newsroom was reportedly caught off-guard by the announcement. The organization is now conducting an internal and external search for his successor, while the newsroom's senior leadership team will oversee operations in the interim.
Kevin Merida has resigned as the executive editor of the Los Angeles Times after less than three years in the role, citing a decision made in consultation with the publication's owner, Patrick Soon-Shiong. Merida's departure comes amid ongoing challenges for the Times, including transitioning to digital and financial losses. Soon-Shiong expressed commitment to the publication's mission and announced an internal and external search for a successor, with an interim leadership team already in place. Merida, who previously worked at ESPN and the Washington Post, expressed pride in the progress made during his tenure and optimism for the Times' future.
