After laying off its writing staff in an effort to focus on video, the man behind Fox Sports' strategy, Jamie Horowitz, is out:
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BREAKING: Jamie Horowitz, President of National Networks for FOX Sports, will be leaving FOX Sports effective immediately.
— John Ourand (@Ourand_Puck) July 3, 2017
Here's what Fox Sports COO said in an email to his staff, per Richard Deitsch:
https://twitter.com/richarddeitsch/status/881924772459933696
"Dear Colleagues:
I regret to inform you that Jamie Horowitz, President of National Networks for FOX Sports, will be leaving FOX Sports immediately. We realize this news may come as a surprise for many of you, but we are confident in this decision.
Everyone at FOX Sports, no matter what role we play, or what business, function or show we contribute to - should act with respect and adhere to professional conduct at all times. These values are non-negotiable.
Until Jamie's replacement is named, I am stepping in to handle his former responsibilities including programming, marketing and scheduling for FS1 and FS2, as well as digital. All of these functions will now report directly to me.
We understand how difficult this will be for many of you, but in these times it is important that we remain unwavering and focused in continuing the great work of FOX Sports.
Best,
Eric"
FOX Sports is going through a massive transition, as their site is transitioning more towards video over written content. As part of that, many of the top reporters in college football no longer have a home, as Stewart Mandel announced on Tuesday that he was part of the company layoffs. Bruce Feldman is still appearing as an analyst, but his writing will now be home at Sports Illustrated.
FOX Sports' cuts come after ESPN has laid off over 100 television and editorial staff over the past two months. For ESPN, the moves have been called a cost-cutting measure, but that doesn't appear to be the deal over at FOX; per Awful Announcing, FOX Sports is going away from written content entirely despite turning a profit in the recent year.
Horowitz helped develop the opinion-based video strategy at ESPN before leaving and bringing Skip Bayless and Colin Cowherd to Fox Sports.
