Christina Norman Leaves Oprah’s 4-Month-Old ‘OWN’

By admin
May 07, 2011
4:41 am

When former MTV president Christina Norman was named CEO of Oprah’s OWN cable network, Oprah said in a statement, “I’ve always had the utmost admiration and respect for Christina’s innovative strategies and management style. She is a proven leader. Her shared values, passion and enthusiasm make her a natural fit for OWN’s emerging platforms. We’re thrilled to have her.”

That was then. This is now.

On May 6, it was announced that Norman, who has more than 20 years of experience in broadcasting, “abruptly” left OWN, having been named CEO in January 2009 and officially taking over her post on Feb. 17, 2009.

OWN, which has had a lukewarm reception and disappointing ratings, premiered just four months ago. The cable network is a joint venture of Oprah’s Harpo Productions Inc. and Discovery Communications.

According to reports, Oprah has said OWN is being prepared for “the next phase of growth.” Norman has temporarily been replaced by the chief operating officer of Discovery Communications, Peter Liguori, until a permanent replacement can be found.

This feels like going to a party to help get it jumping, then being kicked out before it’s over. Although no details have been released, Norman and her many years of expertise probably will nest somewhere else soon. Maybe “The Oprah Winfrey Show” should return for a 26th season. –arnell pharr