ESPN Chief Skipper Resigns, Cites Substance Abuse Problem

NEW YORK (AP) — ESPN president John Skipper says he's resigning to treat a substance abuse problem.

The 61-year-old's sudden announcement will force the Walt Disney Co.-owned network to search for new leadership at a time of retrenchment.

The company has been losing subscribers due to cord-cutters, and has been working to boost its digital output to follow the migration of young sports fans to their smartphones.