Crown Media Family Networks CEO Bill Abbot is stepping down, barely a month after the handling of a same-sex ad created controversy.
Abbott’s last day at the company will be Friday. In a press release confirming the news, parent Hallmark Cards Inc. did not allude to the backlash over the treatment of the ad, which was pulled and then restored days later. But insiders tell Deadline it prompted the top exec’s exit.
“After 11 years, Bill Abbott, president and CEO of Crown Media is leaving the company,” said Mike Perry, president and CEO of Hallmark Cards, Inc. in the release. “I want to thank Bill for his many years of success and contributions to Crown Media and wish him continued success.”