In an e-mail with employees, Xbox chief Phil Spencer said he was “re-evaluating” Xbox’s relationship with Activision Blizzard after reports of Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick reportedly knowing about sexual abuse in the workplace. . Kotick allegedly tried to keep the whole case secret. According to Spencer’s e-mail to staff received by Bloomberg:
“Xbox is evaluating every aspect of its relationship with Activision Blizzard and making ongoing adjustments.”
The agency also says that Spencer and other members of the Xbox management are “deeply upset by the horrific events and actions” at Activision Blizzard. The head of the Playstation, Jim Ryan, was similarly critical of the situation yesterday.
BREAKING: Xbox boss Phil Spencer has joined the chorus of industry professionals criticizing Activision Blizzard, telling staff in an email obtained by Bloomberg that Xbox is “evaluating all aspects of our relationship” with the embattled publisher https://t.co/zEK5MZ7je6
– Jason Schreier (@jasonschreier) November 18, 2021
In response to fierce criticism from both companies, Activision Blizzard spokesman told Bloomberg:
“We respect all feedback from our valuable partners, and we are committed to making our culture and workplace safe, diverse and inclusive.”
The Wall Street Journal reported the case on Tuesday. The article contains documented cases where Kotick was aware of cases of sexual harassment and abuse and took steps to keep them secret. The report also states that Kotick did not inform Activision Blizzard’s board of directors of what he knew. The publishing giant responded to the report, saying that some events were incorrectly described in it.
News has begun today that more than 500 Activision Blizzard employees have signed a petition for Kotick’s resignation.
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