Sources: NBCU's Steve Burke To Step Down; Jeff Shell Is Successor

Steve Burke is "expected to step down" as NBCUniversal President & CEO next year and is "likely to hand the reins" to NBCU Film & Entertainment Chair Jeff Shell, according to sources. Burke's contract expires in August, but sources indicated that he "could depart earlier in the year." NBCU Broadcast, Cable, Sports & News Chair Mark Lazarus "had been viewed as another potential successor for Burke." However, insiders said that they are "confident that Shell is the heir apparent." There is "speculation that Burke could move into a top role at Comcast or oversee Sky" (VARIETY.com, 12/13).

Burke's departure "would come at a pivotal time for the company." NBCU has "two signature events coming next year" in the '20 Tokyo Games and launch of the Peacock streaming service (L.A. TIMES, 12/13).