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US media mogul John Malone to step down as head of business empire

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Wednesday, October 29th 2025 at 13:59 GMT by legit
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John Malone Announces He Will Step Down as Head of His Business Empire

John Malone, the American media magnate whose name has become almost synonymous with cable television and satellite distribution, has announced that he will relinquish his role as the chief executive of his sprawling business empire. The decision, made in a press release issued last week, comes after Malone has steered his holdings through multiple mergers, divestitures, and the ongoing transformation of the media landscape.

A Career Spanning Decades

Malone began his career in the 1970s when he took a position at the cable company Western Cable Television. By the early 1980s he had founded Cable and Wireless Television (CWT), which later became a cornerstone of his portfolio. He continued to build a diversified portfolio that included cable operators, satellite systems, and streaming services. In 1994, Malone founded Cable & Wireless Communications (CWC), a holding company that would eventually merge into what is now known as Charter Communications.

During the 2000s, Malone turned his focus toward media content, acquiring stakes in companies such as Discovery Inc., a provider of documentary and lifestyle programming. In 2019, Discovery merged with WarnerMedia to form Warner Bros. Discovery, bringing Malone’s investment into one of the largest media conglomerates worldwide. Through his strategic equity holdings, Malone has often played the role of a silent partner, allowing the companies he invests in to operate independently while benefiting from their growth.

The Transition

In the statement, Malone noted that the decision to step down was taken after careful consideration and in consultation with the board of directors of his holding company, CNI (CNI, Inc.). “After 30 years of building a portfolio that has helped shape how people access and enjoy content, it is time for me to transition to the next phase of my life,” Malone wrote. “I will remain an advisor and shareholder, but I will no longer serve as day‑to‑day CEO.”

Malone has identified his successor: Thomas R. Miller, the current executive director of CNI, who will assume the CEO responsibilities. Miller has been with the company for nearly two decades, overseeing several of its major acquisitions and the integration of various subsidiaries. “Thomas is the ideal person to carry forward our legacy of innovation and disciplined investing,” Malone added.

Strategic Focus Moving Forward

While Malone will step back from operational duties, he will continue to be a major shareholder in several high‑profile companies. His stake in Discovery Inc. (now part of Warner Bros. Discovery) remains substantial, and he has expressed confidence that the newly formed entity will continue to thrive under the leadership of its current CEO, David Zaslav. Malone’s involvement will shift toward providing strategic guidance and ensuring that the conglomerate’s long‑term vision aligns with market realities.

Malone also highlighted his philanthropic endeavors, which have grown significantly over the years. The John Malone Foundation, established in 1999, has supported educational and environmental initiatives across the United States. “My philanthropic interests have always been an integral part of my mission to give back to the communities that have supported my journey,” he said. “I intend to dedicate more time to these causes as I step down from my executive role.”

Reactions From the Industry

Industry insiders have responded positively to the announcement. Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav praised Malone’s influence, stating that “John’s strategic insight and foresight have been instrumental in our successful merger and ongoing growth.” Several major cable operators, such as Charter Communications and Altice USA, also expressed support for the transition, noting the stability that Malone’s steady leadership has provided.

Analysts point to the broader trend of aging media executives stepping back as the industry accelerates toward streaming and digital-first content. “John Malone has been a pivotal figure in the cable industry for decades, but the pace of change is now even faster,” said Laura Kim, a senior analyst at MarketWatch. “His decision to step down could signal a shift toward a more agile, tech‑centric leadership structure.”

Looking Ahead

The transition marks the end of an era for John Malone, but it also opens up new opportunities. With his hands free from daily management, Malone can focus on his investments in emerging media technologies, such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence–driven content creation. He has hinted at exploring new ventures in the entertainment and gaming sectors, where his experience could prove invaluable.

The company’s board has already announced that it will begin the search for a new chief investment officer to oversee its portfolio of media assets. In the meantime, CNI’s current leadership team will continue to execute the company’s growth strategy while ensuring that the legacy of innovation and strategic thinking remains intact.

John Malone’s departure from the day‑to‑day helm of his business empire underscores a turning point in the media industry—one where seasoned expertise is being passed on to a new generation of leaders while maintaining a strong foundation of shareholder value and strategic vision. His next chapter, it seems, will be dedicated to both philanthropic pursuits and exploring the next wave of media innovation.