It’s official. Les Moonves, one of the most powerful men in television over the past two decades, has stepped down as the CEO of CBS after six more women raised assault and harassment claims against him, bringing the total to 12.
As part of his settlement to leave the company, Moonves will donate $20 million of his severance package to “one or more organizations that support the #MeToo movement and equality for women in the workplace,” the company said.
The CBS board announced that Chief Operating Officer Joseph Ianniello will serve as president and acting CEO while it conducts a search for a permanent successor.
Shari Redstone, CBS vice chair and president of National Amusements Inc, released this statement:
“CBS is an organization of talented and dedicated people who have created one of the most successful media companies in the world. Today’s resolution will benefit all shareholders, allowing us to focus on the business of running CBS – and transforming it for the future. We are confident in Joe’s ability to serve as acting CEO and delighted to welcome our new directors, who bring valuable and diverse expertise and a strong commitment to corporate governance.”
Six newly reported incidents today, which the women said took place between the 1980s and early 2000s, included claims of forced sex, Moonves exposing himself and the use of physical violence and intimidation.
All six of the women are named, and their testimony brought the number of women accusing him to 12.
Moonves, 68, joined CBS in 1995 and became CEO in 2006. He is married to Julie Chen, host of The Talk and Big Brother.
Lead Independent Director Bruce Gordon said:
“We thank Les for his 24 years of service. Among his achievements, he established a strong management team, giving us great confidence as we accelerate our succession plans and provide continuity of leadership. This agreement maintains an independent board that is charged with determining the best course for the future of CBS on behalf of all shareholders.
In a statement to the New Yorker, Moonves acknowledged three of the encounters, but said they were consensual.