ESPN announced Monday that president John Skipper has resigned to deal with a substance addiction problem.
"Today I have resigned from my duties as President of ESPN," Skipper said in a statement published by ESPN. "I have had a wonderful career at the Walt Disney Company and am grateful for the many opportunities and friendships. I owe a debt to many, but most profoundly Michael Lynton, George Bodenheimer and Bob Iger.
"I have struggled for many years with a substance addiction. I have decided that the most important thing I can do right now is to take care of my problem.
"I have disclosed that decision to the company, and we mutually agreed that it was appropriate that I resign. I will always appreciate the human understanding and warmth that Bob displayed here and always.
"I come to this public disclosure with embarrassment, trepidation and a feeling of having let others I care about down."
George Bodenheimer, who served as the company's president from 1998 through 2011, will take over for Skipper, according to ESPN.
