Jackson Quits Channel 4

The chief executive of Channel 4, Michael Jackson, has announced that he is leaving the channel to take up a job in the States.

Jackson will join the USA Entertainment Group as the company’s chief executive, based in New York. A departure date has not been set but the channel have confirmed that they will shortly be advertising for a replacement.

The former BBC1 and BBC2 controller joined Channel 4 in July 1997 and has been responsible for overseeing the commissioning of shows such as Big Brother, Trigger Happy TV and Da Ali G Show.

Jackson said: “To lead an organisation that constantly seeks to reinvent itself and strives to innovate has been a constant source of stimulation and I have enjoyed the challenge of balancing the cultural and creative imperatives that drive the channel against its commercial needs.”

Channel 4 chairman, Vannie Treves, added: “He leaves the channel in a much stronger position than he found it, with a range of new initiatives, including Film Four channels, E4 and Channel 4 interactive, all promising to sustain the core channel in more competitive times ahead.”

USA Entertainment is the cable, TV production and film group within USA Networks Inc, a media commerce company in the US. As chief executive Jackson will oversee a portfolio of cable channels, as well as a TV production and film studio.

Channel 4: 020 7396 4444 www.channel4.com

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