Following yesterday’s major restructuring at the Viacom Music & Entertainment Group, in which VH1 and Logo president Chris McCarthy also took on president duties at MTV, triggering the exit of MTV president Sean Atkins, McCarthy addressed the change in a memo to company employees. In it, McCarthy assures staffers that, as he takes on the new “challenge” of turning MTV around, he remains “as passionate and committed as ever” to VH1 and Logo. He admitted that he “may not have all the answers” to questions about how the new structure would work but promised to be transparent about it.
Here is his email in full:
Hey Everyone,
By now you’ve heard the news that Doug has asked me to take on a broader role adding MTV to our VH1 and Logo group.
In this new position, I will oversee MTV, while continuing to run VH1 and Logo. I remain as passionate and committed as ever to both networks and, day to day, this should not have an impact on you or the great work you do.
I’m excited, up for the challenge and, in no uncertain terms, I couldn’t do it if VH1 and Logo weren’t in such great shape.
The success of both brands is a testament to all of you and your steadfast commitment to raise the bar, constantly challenge yourselves and never settle.
I know this announcement raises some questions, and though I may not have all the answers right now, I’ll continue to work closely with the senior leadership team to make sure the information is flowing. Thankfully we have an amazing senior team at both VH1 and Logo — some of the very best leaders in the industry — and, I am confident we won’t miss a beat!
With much appreciation,
Chris
