Couric Sends Zucker to CNN With Fond Parting Words

Disney-ABC will name replacement, but Bass, Samuels remain as co-executive producers

By Paige Albiniak -- Broadcasting & Cable, 11/29/2012 11:37:37 AM

Katie Couric, host of Disney-ABC's Katie, said she wishes her executive producer Jeff Zucker well as he prepares to take over as head of CNN Worldwide, which was officially announced on Thursday morning.

"I'm very excited that Jeff has such a wonderful opportunity at CNN and equally excited for CNN," said Couric in a statement. "I'm also grateful that Jeff has been so instrumental in getting our show off to such a strong start and look forward to working with the fantastic staff we've assembled and building on the strong foundation we've created."

Disney-ABC plans to name someone to fill Zucker's position in the coming weeks, according to a spokesperson.

"We wish Jeff the very best as he embarks on his new venture," said Janice Marinelli, president of Disney-ABC Domestic Television, which distributes the show. "He brought his wealth of experience, knowledge and vision to the creation and development of Katie. We are so proud of Katie, which is the No. 1 new syndicated show of the year. We thank Jeff for his leadership and contributions and wish him great success in his new role of President of CNN Worldwide."

In the meantime, co-executive producers Michael Bass and Kathy Samuels and director Joseph Terry remain with the show, which stars former CBS Evening News and Today anchor Katie Couric. Zucker begins his new job in January, when CNN's current head, Jim Walton, will depart as previously announced.

Zucker has been rumored to be heading to CNN since last summer, even before Katie premiered in broadcast syndication.