ESPN president John Skipper made a surprising decision on Monday morning, resigning his post at the Worldwide Leader.

Skipper, 61, has been president of the network since 2012 and has served in other roles at ESPN for several years prior to being named president.

Skipper cited a battle with substance addiction as his reason for resigning from the company:

Skipper released a statement through ESPN.com explaining his decision:

“Today I have resigned from my duties as President of ESPN,” Skipper said in a statement. “I have had a wonderful career at the Walt Disney Company and am grateful for the many opportunities and friendships. I owe a debt to many, but most profoundly Michael Lynton, George Bodenheimer and Bob Iger.

“I have struggled for many years with a substance addiction. I have decided that the most important thing I can do right now is to take care of my problem.

“I have disclosed that decision to the company, and we mutually agreed that it was appropriate that I resign. I will always appreciate the human understanding and warmth that Bob displayed here and always.

“I come to this public disclosure with embarrassment, trepidation and a feeling of having let others I care about down.

“As I deal with this issue and what it means to me and my family, I ask for appropriate privacy and a little understanding.

“To my colleagues at ESPN, it has been a privilege. I take great pride in your accomplishments and have complete confidence in your collective ability to continue ESPN’s success.”

George Bodenheimer has been named Acting Chair of ESPN and will serve in that interim capacity for 90 days while the network finds new leadership.