Les Moonves, formerly one of Hollywood’s most influential figures, helmed CBS from 2006 to 2018. But in 2018, multiple allegations of sexual misconduct emerged, leading to his departure from CBS. Fast forward to today, and many are curious about, “what is Les Moonves doing now?”
In the aftermath of his exit from CBS, Moonves has been involved in several ventures and faced numerous legal challenges. His activities have ranged from establishing a new company to navigating complex legal disputes.
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Summary of what is Les Moonves doing now
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Moon Rise Unlimited Foundation | Founded on February 8, 2019, located in West Hollywood, California. Its exact purpose remains speculative, with many suspecting media-related ventures. |
| $120 Million Severance Package | Moonves abandoned his legal quest for the substantial severance pay from CBS in 2021. |
| $30.5 Million Settlement | In 2022, a settlement was reached between Moonves, CBS, and the New York State attorney general over misleading investors on misconduct allegations. |
| Hollywood Commission Chairmanship | Despite surrounding controversies, Moonves holds the position of chair at the Hollywood Commission, aiming to combat workplace abuses. |
Les Moonves’ Post-CBS Endeavors
After his CBS chapter ended, Moonves embarked on a new journey by establishing Moon Rise Unlimited in West Hollywood, California. Though the exact nature of this enterprise remains shrouded in mystery, there’s speculation that Moonves is gearing up for fresh media projects.
In 2021, a notable event was Moonves’ decision to withdraw from the pursuit of a massive $120 million severance package from CBS. This move followed CBS’s hesitation to grant him the package amidst the sexual misconduct allegations.
Legal Settlements and Controversies
Moonves and CBS found themselves at the center of a $30.5 million settlement with the New York State attorney general in 2022. This settlement stemmed from accusations that investors had been misled about Moonves’ sexual misconduct allegations.
A breakdown of this settlement reveals that $22 million was meant for shareholders and an additional $6 million dedicated to programs addressing sexual harassment and assault.
Furthermore, investigations led by bodies like the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the US Department of Justice (DOJ) concerning Moonves are still ongoing.
Involvement in Industry Initiatives
Despite the shadows of controversy, Moonves has not distanced himself from Hollywood. Presently, he chairs the Hollywood Commission, a nonprofit with a mission to counteract workplace abuses in the entertainment sector. However, not everyone agrees with his role in the organization due to his contentious past.
The narrative of Moonves’ CBS departure would be incomplete without mentioning Shari Redstone. Daughter to the former CBS chairman, Sumner Redstone, Shari played a pivotal role in Moonves’ career trajectory. She was a prominent advocate for the CBS-Viacom merger, which Moonves vehemently opposed. His resignation coincided with the merger’s finalization.
Julie Chen’s Perspective
Julie Chen, Moonves’ spouse and ex-co-host of “The Talk”, provided a personal viewpoint on the accusations against her husband. In a revealing 2018 chat, she professed her belief in his innocence, attributing the allegations to political motivations. Chen also shared her reasons for exiting “The Talk”, stating a mismatch in the show’s empowering ethos and the accusations against her husband.
Concluding Remarks
Les Moonves’ journey post-CBS has been multifaceted. From embarking on new business endeavors to grappling with legal battles, he remains a prominent topic of public discussion. The entertainment industry and its followers continue to keenly watch his next moves.
FAQs:
1. When did Moonves leave CBS?
Moonves departed from CBS in 2018.
2. What is Moon Rise Unlimited?
Moon Rise Unlimited is a company founded by Les Moonves in 2019, post his CBS exit.
3. Was there a settlement between Moonves and CBS?
Yes, a $30.5 million settlement was reached between Moonves, CBS, and the New York State attorney general in 2022.
4. Who is Julie Chen in relation to Les Moonves?
Julie Chen is Les Moonves’ wife and used to be a co-host of “The Talk”.
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