Elisabeth Rabishaw, Vice President and Publisher of The Hollywood Reporter (THR), has announced she will retire later this year. Her decision comes at a time when the entertainment brand is going through big changes, including recent layoffs that affected well-known figures like veteran TV editor Lesley Goldberg and senior editor Rebecca Sun.
In a statement, Rabishaw expressed gratitude for her time at THR, highlighting unforgettable experiences such as attending major industry events like the Emmys, Oscars, upfronts, and Comic-Con. Despite the bittersweet departure, she affirmed her enduring connection to THR and expressed plans to continue supporting the publication.
During her tenure, Rabishaw played a crucial role in overseeing global and domestic advertising strategies and revenue streams at THR. She also served as an executive producer for the publication’s programming like “Off Script With The Hollywood Reporter.”
George Grobar, president of PMC (Penske Media Corporation), which owns THR, acknowledged Rabishaw’s contributions warmly, emphasizing her impact on both the brand and the team. He wished her success in her future endeavors as she transitioned to a consultancy role.
The Hollywood Reporter, under PMC’s ownership, has undergone financial restructuring amid revenue challenges. Recent layoffs in June 2023 and subsequent cuts have affected editorial operations, reflecting broader adjustments within PMC’s media divisions. These changes underscore ongoing efforts to navigate economic pressures and adapt to evolving market conditions in digital media.
The departure of longstanding figures like Lesley Goldberg, who reflected on her transformative experience at THR on social media, and the recent exit of Cathy Field from THR’s leadership further illustrate the organizational shifts amidst PMC’s strategic realignments. Previous rounds of layoffs, including those in 2020 attributed to pandemic impacts, highlight the publication’s proactive measures to streamline operations and maintain resilience in a competitive media landscape.
Elisabeth Rabishaw’s retirement marks the end of an era at The Hollywood Reporter, punctuated by both personal reflections and broader industry dynamics shaping its future trajectory under PMC’s stewardship.