History of John Skipper in Timeline

John Skipper is an American television executive recognized for his leadership roles in the sports media industry. He served as the president of ESPN for several years, overseeing the network's programming, production, and business strategies. Following his tenure at ESPN, Skipper became the executive chairman of DAZN Group, a sports streaming service. He later co-founded Meadowlark Media, a content production company focused on sports and entertainment. Skipper's career is marked by his influence in shaping the landscape of sports broadcasting and media distribution.

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Full Timeline

June 1997: Senior VP and General Manager of ESPN

In June 1997, John Skipper was promoted to Senior Vice President and General Manager of ESPN the Magazine.

October 2005: Executive VP of Content

In October 2005, John Skipper was named Executive Vice President of Content at ESPN.

January 1, 2012: President of ESPN Inc. and Co-Chairman of Disney Media Networks

On January 1, 2012, John Skipper became President of ESPN Inc. and also assumed the role of Co-Chairman of Disney Media Networks.

2014: Comments on eSports

In 2014, John Skipper made comments dismissing eSports as a "real sport", referring to them as a "competition" instead, which received negative attention.

December 18, 2017: Resignation from ESPN

On December 18, 2017, John Skipper announced his resignation as president of ESPN, citing his struggle with substance addiction and the need to focus on treatment. A cocaine extortion attempt led to his ESPN departure. George Bodenheimer took over as acting chairman during the leadership transition.

2017: Contract Extension with Disney

In 2017, John Skipper's contract with Disney, ESPN's parent company, was extended through 2021.

May 8, 2018: Executive Chairman of DAZN Group

On May 8, 2018, John Skipper was appointed as the Executive Chairman of DAZN Group, an international sports media company, and would be based in New York City. DAZN planned to launch its sports streaming service in the U.S., featuring boxing events promoted by Eddie Hearn.

2018: Relationship with Carmen Busquets

In 2018, John Skipper began a relationship with Venezuelan fashion entrepreneur Carmen Busquets.

January 2021: Launch of Meadowlark Media

In January 2021, John Skipper partnered with Dan Le Batard to establish Meadowlark Media, a sports-focused content company, while retaining his role at DAZN. The company signed a deal with Apple TV+.