NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell Steps Down Following Investigation into “Inappropriate Conduct

NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell is leaving the company “effective immediately” following an investigation into “inappropriate conduct,” according to a statement from Comcast, the media company’s parent company.

In a statement, Shell said he had “an inappropriate relationship with a woman in the company.” He expressed regret for his actions and said he was “truly sorry” for letting his colleagues down.

Comcast CEO Brian L. Roberts and President Mike Cavanagh said in a joint statement to employees that they were “disappointed to share this news with you.”

Shell had been CEO of NBCUniversal since 2013. He oversaw a wide range of entertainment and news assets, including Universal Pictures, NBC News and MSNBC, and cable channels Bravo and E!.

Prior to his role as CEO, Shell held various positions at NBCUniversal, including Chairman of Universal Filmed Entertainment Group and President of Universal Pictures. He also served as President of Comcast Programming Group and President of Comcast International Media Group.

Shell’s departure comes as NBCUniversal is preparing to launch its streaming service, Peacock, later this year. It is unclear how his departure will affect the launch.