John Malone Reorders Media Empire as C.E.O. Exits

Liberty Media Chairman Malone Steps Back

John Malone, the veteran cable executive who built one of the world's largest media empires, is stepping down as chief executive officer of Liberty Media after more than three decades at the helm.

The move, announced on Monday, marks the end of an era for the 80-year-old Malone, who is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the cable and media industries.

New Leadership Structure

Malone will remain chairman of Liberty Media and will continue to play an active role in the company's strategic direction.

Greg Maffei, who has been president and CEO of Liberty Media since 2012, will succeed Malone as CEO.

Maffei has been responsible for overseeing Liberty Media's investments in media and entertainment companies, including Discovery Inc. and Formula One Group.

Shifting Priorities

Malone's departure from the CEO role is seen by analysts as a sign that Liberty Media is shifting its focus away from its traditional cable business and towards its investments in content and technology.

In recent years, Liberty Media has sold off its stake in Charter Communications, the second-largest cable operator in the United States, and has invested heavily in streaming services and other digital businesses.

Legacy in Question

Malone is widely credited with pioneering the development of the cable industry in the United States.

He founded Tele-Communications Inc. (TCI) in 1973, and under his leadership, TCI grew into the largest cable operator in the country.

TCI was acquired by AT&T in 1999 for $48 billion, and Malone became the largest individual shareholder in AT&T.

Industry Giant

Malone has been a controversial figure throughout his career, with critics accusing him of being too focused on maximizing profits and not enough on investing in new technologies and content.

However, there is no doubt that Malone is one of the most successful media executives of all time.

He has built a vast media empire that includes cable networks, satellite TV providers, and streaming services.