Exec Veep Cook exits King, CBS

Rumors point to Fox syndie arm or NBC

By MELISSA GREGO

Bob Cook, an exec rumored to be up for the top job at Fox syndie arm Twentieth Television, ankled as exec VP of King World and CBS Enterprises on Friday.

A CBS Enterprises spokeswoman confirmed the exec came to a mutual agreement with his employer to exit his post to pursue other opportunities.

It is not clear what Cook's plans are, or whether he has a deal signed elsewhere. But in addition to the Fox rumors, there has also been speculation in syndie circles that Cook may land at NBC, where he would be reunited with NBC Enterprises and Syndication prexy Ed Wilson, who left the prexy post at King World/CBS Enterprises earlier this year.

"Bob is both a terrific executive and person to work with. He made a tremendous contribution to the division. We know he'll be equally successful in the future," the spokeswoman said.

While at King World and CBS, Cook oversaw marketing and creative services. He served in a similar capacity for CBS syndie arm Eyemark before CBS and King World merged earlier this year.

A Twentieth spokeswoman declined to comment on whether Cook was indeed headed for the company.