When Media Execs Jump the Shark, It’s Time to Exit Quietly

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In simpler terms, a well-known TV sitcom character once leaped over a shark in an attempt that became iconic. This act was used to represent a point where something, whether it’s a process, idea, or series, goes beyond all reasonable creativity, signaling the end of its worthwhile development and the need for change.

Recently, executives at CBS News have found themselves in a similar situation, much like the one that involved the edited interview with Kamala and the subsequent lawsuit. This event is also connected to the potential sale of Paramount, which owns CBS, to new management. However, this discussion isn’t about politics or short-term political figures like President Trump, but rather about a broader, more fundamental idea.

Here is a guide for media or news executives on recognizing when it’s time for a graceful departure:

1. If your leadership style is causing discontent among employees, it may be time to reevaluate your approach and make necessary changes.
2. If you find yourself repeatedly making the same mistakes, it might be an indication that you need to step aside and let someone else take the reins.
3. If your company is experiencing financial difficulties and you are unable to turn things around, it may be in the best interest of both you and the organization to move on.
4. If you are no longer passionate about your work or feel that you have reached the peak of your potential within the company, it might be time to consider new opportunities.
5. If there is a cultural mismatch between yourself and the company, it may be best for both parties if you seek employment elsewhere.
6. If you are facing personal issues that are affecting your performance at work, it may be wise to take a step back and focus on addressing those challenges before returning to your role.
7. If there is a change in leadership or direction within the company that you do not agree with, it may be time to reassess your position and decide if you want to stay on board.
8. If you have been offered an exciting new opportunity elsewhere, it’s important to weigh your options carefully before making a decision about whether to take the leap.
9. If you are simply no longer enjoying your job or feeling fulfilled in your role, it may be time to consider a change.
10. Ultimately, if you feel that your skills and talents would be better utilized elsewhere, it’s important to trust your instincts and pursue new opportunities when the time is right.

Essentially, when your personal actions start driving the narrative about you instead of your professional work, it’s a sign that you’ve reached a peak in visibility that could potentially overshadow your career, for better or worse. It might be wise to step back, take a break, and enjoy the benefits of your severance package while keeping a low profile, as the renowned Lew Wasserman once advised: “Avoid the limelight – it can dull your luster.” In this context, a news executive’s role differs from reporters, on-air personalities, news readers in the UK, and producers; they are responsible for managing people and finances.

These individuals are not typically journalists, neither uncovering facts nor fabrications. They should keep a distance from the content they present and refrain from becoming the focal point or the content itself. In case they decide to resign or retire, their announcements should be brief, straightforward, and matter-of-fact. They should avoid making grand statements about journalism or freedom of speech, as well as protests against anyone in management or the government. Moreover, they should not view their departure as a call-to-arms for the gods of journalism or a protest against viewers who may have turned away from them at their peak.

Regrettably, these days it can be challenging for such individuals to maintain their sensibility, as it was once simpler when on-air talent gave an impression of neutrality. In my past, I attended a significant anniversary celebration for what was the country’s leading conservative commentary magazine held at New York City’s Plaza Hotel in formal attire. The guest list was star-studded, and two friends and I endeavored to meet as many famous faces as possible. We were fortunate enough to meet everyone from Walter Cronkite and John Chancellor to Henry Kissinger and Dr. Edward Teller, the father of the H-bomb!

The essence is, in today’s contemporary world, journalists would avoid such a location for the concern that it might appear as friendship with individuals they’ve openly criticized or deemed enemies in public. This is why arrogance has crept in, because these executives are so eager for approval, so desperate to be recognized as popular and virtuous among their peers, when their role essentially involves budget management, staffing adjustments, and minimizing involvement in the newsroom. They’re making reckless moves left and right because the actual decision-makers – the OWNERS of these media outlets – are primarily concerned with one thing: Earning profits, not wasting resources on legal disputes or jeopardizing mergers due to such liabilities.

Previously unbeknownst to you, Wendy McMahon, the former CEO of CBS News who recently announced her departure with a self-righteous flourish, previously worked as a station manager for ABC. Her decision to leave CBS and her controversial past may limit her future opportunities in the industry. In contrast, media personalities such as Megyn Kelly, Bill O’Reilly, and Tucker Carlson have increased their influence and earnings despite any constraints on their careers.

It was once said that politics is like show business for people who aren’t good-looking. Unfortunately, it seems that the same can be said about media management for those who are envious of the admiration they don’t receive from their social circles. This attitude is harmful to news organizations, audiences, and our democracy as a whole.

The country singer John Hartford wrote a song called “I’ve Heard That Tear-Stained Monologue You Do There By The Door Before You Go,” which beautifully captures this sentiment.

SO, again, Lew’s sage advice to any future shark-jumping media execs is this:

Just go. Quietly. Silently, even, especially when asked about it.

Instead of waiting for someone superior to force you to walk the public plank, it would be wiser to recognize when it’s time on your own. While your friends might appreciate your sacrificing speeches, others, including me, find such situations indifferent.

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2025-05-21 22:55