Via the Associated Press
More big changes for American Idol. Robert Sillerman, CEO and founder of Idol’s parent company, CKx Inc. has resigned:
NEW YORK – The chairman, CEO and founder of CKx Inc., the media company behind hit show “American Idol, ” resigned on Friday and said he is considering buying the company.
Robert F.X. Sillerman has stepped down, effective immediately. He will continue to consult for the company and plans to look into the possibility of buying CKx as well. Sillerman wants the board to be able to evaluate its strategic options, the company said.
Sillerman founded CKx and has served as chairman and CEO since it began in 2005. He is also CKx’s largest shareholder.
Director Edward Bleier has been named to succeed Sillerman as chairman and Michael G. Ferrel, a former director and president of the company, will serve as acting CEO.
Idol creator, Simon Fuller, had resigned his position at CKx a few months ago to start his own production company. Fuller is still the executive producer of American Idol and So You Think You Can Dance, and is currently producing the web-only show If I Can Dream.
Judge Simon Cowell and music director Rickey Minor leave Idol at the end of this season.
There’s a major survey posted over at americanidol.com. I think the producers are planning an overhaul of the show. It’ll be interesting to see what other changes are in store in Idol in the months ahead…
