CNBC anchor and international correspondent Hadley Gamble has accused former NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell of sexual harassment and sex discrimination. Gamble’s lawyer, Suzanne McKie, released a statement saying that the investigation into Shell “arose from a complaint by my client of sexual harassment and sex discrimination.” The parent company, Comcast, announced Shell’s resignation, effective immediately, following an investigation by outside counsel into inappropriate conduct.
According to reports, Shell admitted to having “an inappropriate relationship with a woman in the company.” The Wall Street Journal and New York Times have reported that the woman was Gamble.
Gamble covers energy, geopolitics, and financial markets and anchors “Capital Connection” from CNBC’s Middle East headquarters. NBCUniversal owns CNBC.
In a statement released on Sunday, Shell apologized for his behavior and expressed regret for letting down his colleagues. “I’m truly sorry I let my Comcast and NBCUniversal colleagues down,” he said. “They are the most talented people in the business and the opportunity to work with them the last 19 years has been a privilege.”
Neither Comcast nor McKie have responded to a request for comment from USA TODAY.
The allegations against Shell are the latest in a series of high-profile sexual harassment cases in the media and entertainment industries. The #MeToo movement, which gained prominence in 2017, has led to increased scrutiny of workplace behavior and a call for greater accountability for those in positions of power.
In conclusion, the resignation of Jeff Shell from NBCUniversal highlights the seriousness of sexual harassment allegations in the workplace. The media and entertainment industries have been under increasing pressure to address issues of inappropriate conduct and create safe working environments for all employees. The case underscores the need for greater accountability and transparency in corporate leadership, particularly with regard to workplace behavior.