Longtime FX Publicity Boss John Solberg to Step Down

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Longtime FX publicity boss John Solberg is stepping down from the role.

For over two decades, Solberg has been employed by FX, and during that period, he’s collaborated extensively with FX chairman, John Landgraf, for nearly two-thirds of those years. The FX network was established 31 years back.

In the realm of television, both Landgraf and Solberg, known for coining the term “Peak TV,” are legends in their respective spheres. To those within the industry, these two Johns are inextricably linked with FX.

Although it was tough to make this choice, the timing feels appropriate,” Solberg penned in a note circulated among coworkers (as reported by The Hollywood Reporter). “FX will forever remain a significant piece of my identity.

And Solberg will always be part of the FX brand.

For the past two and a half decades, John Solberg has been an exceptional champion for our original programming brand at FX. In a statement, Landgraf expressed that John’s honesty, deep-rooted passion for stories and storytellers, and reverence for journalism have significantly shaped how we engage with the media. After 21 years of working together, I will deeply miss having John around at FX on a daily basis, but he will always remain a cherished friend.

Solberg’s current contract runs until January 2026, and he will be leaving at that time. Contrary to rumors, this departure is not due to Disney layoffs, as confirmed by an informed source. Additionally, there was no buyout offer extended to Solberg.

Here is the memo Solberg’s sent to staff:

Hi FX Family,
I wanted to let you know that when my current contract ends in January, I will be leaving my role as Executive Vice President of Publicity.

For nearly three decades, I’ve had the privilege of working at FX, an enchanting journey that has been marked by significant changes and growth. Over this period, I’ve reported to four different supervisors: Ellen Cooper, who brought me on board, Mark Sonnenberg, Peter Liguori, whose innovative ideas steered FX in a new direction, and my present boss of 21 years, John Landgraf, who stands unparalleled in his leadership.

I’ve had an unparalleled experience working here, arguably the finest in the field. This workplace stands out—boasting exceptional individuals, a remarkable culture, and top-notch productions. In my opinion, no other network can compare to FX.

* Our success is rooted in the quality of our programs. I’ve been fortunate enough to contribute to some of the most critically-acclaimed, innovative, and influential TV productions ever made. I was privileged to serve as a spokesperson for numerous talented creators, storytellers, performers, and craftspeople, forming lasting friendships with many in the process. It’s been a true pleasure working alongside them.

Or:

* Our greatness comes from our exceptional television shows. I’ve been incredibly lucky to collaborate on some of the most celebrated, pioneering, and trend-setting programs in TV history. I was fortunate enough to advocate for a multitude of gifted producers, writers, actors, directors, and artists, often forming enduring friendships along the way. It has been an immense honor working with them.

I also want to express my gratitude towards the journalists and critics I’ve collaborated with for numerous years. They have played a significant role in reviewing FX and our shows, and their coverage has been valuable to us. While we don’t always concur with everything they write or say, it is crucial to note that they serve as essential, impartial judges of our work. Their evaluations, or scorecards, carry weight.

This brings me right back to this exceptional spot. Our leaders are unparalleled anywhere. John stands out uniquely. It’s uplifting and driving to have someone in a top position who pushes himself harder than anyone else within the organization. I can hardly conceive of someone at his level who cares more or has a better rapport with his coworkers, regardless of their rank. He is simply exceptional. I am deeply thankful for our collaboration and camaraderie.

This version maintains the original’s meaning while using simpler language and sentence structures to make it easier to read.

It’s simply amazing how exceptional Nick, Gina (as Entertainment Presidents), Steph (Marketing Chief), and all the department heads such as Kate, Jonathan, Katcher, Chuck, Kelly, Karen, Julie P., Kim, Nick, Sally, Ethan, Steve, Lance, Kenna, Kenya, Michael, Jason, and Shola are. Every day, I’m left in awe by their combined intellectual and creative strength. I have no doubt that you and your teams will keep pushing the boundaries of excellence, maintaining FX as an industry leader.

Nick, Gina (in Entertainment Presidency roles), Steph (as Marketing Chief), and the rest of our department leaders like Kate, Jonathan, Katcher, Chuck, Kelly, Karen, Julie P., Kim, Nick, Sally, Ethan, Steve, Lance, Kenna, Kenya, Michael, Jason, and Shola are truly outstanding. I’m constantly amazed by their intellectual and creative prowess. I firmly believe that you and your teams will continue to set the bar high for excellence within our industry, keeping FX at the forefront.

To my dear colleagues – Lauren, Roslyn, Lana, Susan, Adriana, Alana, Amanda, Jesse, John, and the entire team – you are undeniably the most extraordinarily talented professionals in publicity, trade communications, photo publicity, talent relations, events, and awards. Your work has a transformative impact on everything it touches, and I am truly grateful for each of you.

Or, more informally:

Hey friends – Laurens, Roslyns, Lanas, Susans, Adrianas, Alanas, Amandas, Jesses, Johns, and the gang – you are hands down the most amazing publicity, trade comms, photo publicity, talent relations, events, and awards team out there. You turn everything you work on into gold, and I am beyond thankful to be working with such a talented crew!

Ultimately, I couldn’t have succeeded in this role without the love and support of my sons Owen, Thomas, and Nick, my daughter-in-law Annie, and above all, my wife Maeve. As a communications executive, being married to an accomplished news producer and writer was like unlocking a professional shortcut that significantly improved my performance. She was with me every step of the way, offering priceless advice. Her absence is profoundly felt.

The kindness and care you’ve shown my family over the past six years has been immeasurably valuable. It truly reflects your character. The same can be said about my Disney colleagues, particularly Bob, Dana, Eric (who feels like a brother to me for the last 25 years), Joe, Debra, Sonia, Shannon, Naomi, Candice, Kristina, Paul, Michelle, Barrie, Lacey, and many more. Your compassion and support epitomize the essence of this company and its employees.

As tough as it’s been, I feel it’s time for a change. Gaming, however, will forever remain a significant piece of my identity. I want to express my heartfelt thanks to each one of you.

Stay Fearless.

Godspeed,
John

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2025-06-12 00:55