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CNN's Zucker tells staff Cuomo made 'mistake' advising brother on harassment allegations

Cuomo apologized Tuesday night on air.

Published: May 26, 2021 10:41am

Updated: May 26, 2021 4:09pm

CNN President Jeff Zucker has told staffers show host Chris Cuomo made a "mistake" in advising older brother Gov. Andrew Cuomo on how to address sexual harassment allegations earlier this year, according to a news report. 

Zucker made the announcement Tuesday on a strategy call, reports The Daily Beast, based on multiple sources who were on the call.

The primetime cable TV show host encouraged his brother to use the "cancel culture" argument to minimize the allegations brought against the Democratic governor.

Zucker said "in no uncertain terms" Cuomo's actions were a "mistake" and that he "did cross a line."

Multiple women in March came forward with allegations against the governor.

The Washington Post reported the CNN star joined strategy calls to assist in the planning of rebuttals to the accusations. 

Zucker did not fire, suspend or fine Cuomo, but the network required him to apologize during his live evening show.  

Cuomo offered an apology Tuesday night and said such actions "will never happen again" and insisted he "knows where the line is."

A statement from CNN acknowledged their employee's actions but said no further discipline would be taken against him. 

"It was inappropriate to engage in conversations that included members of the Governor’s staff, which Chris acknowledges. He will not participate in such conversations going forward," the statement reads.

CNN insiders reportedly expressed frustration and said Cuomo should have faced more serious consequences.

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