Xbox Entertainment Head Leaves Microsoft

Blair Westlake, Microsoft’s Corporate Vice President for Media and Entertainment, has left the company over what he says was the company’s new direction.

Blair was in charge of acquiring the non-gaming content that expanded Xbox from a gaming console into an entertainment device. Prior to this, he was chairman of Universal Television & Networks Group at Universal Studios, Inc.

Blair released this statement in regards to his resignation:

It has become clear to me that the organization is moving in a direction that does not fit either my expertise or my skill sets. Over the last few months Microsoft has been undergoing a large-scale reorganization. During that period, I have had the privilege of working with numerous talented and professional people. While I will miss their company and our interaction, I truly believe that this move is in the best interest of all parties concerned.

Ironically, Xbox One is well known for having its initial messaging emphasize entertainment and content delivery over being a gaming console.

While some point to Microsoft’s recent hiring of CBS exec Nancy Tellem, it’s not exactly clear what prompted Blair’s exit from the company. It may simply be discontent from what was shaping up in Microsoft following the reorganization. There’s also the possibility that the company is naming its incoming CEO soon.

While Microsoft has stepped away from the entertainment-focused messaging for Xbox as of late, much of what they have planned is still very much on schedule. We know that Steven Spielberg is hard at work at the new Halo TV series, and a similar game – show deal is in the works for Quantum Break.  At launch, Xbox One had 19 entertainment apps ready, including exclusive The NFL on Xbox One.

Remember; that initial plan to sell Xbox One on entertainment first is now out the window. Whatever shape Microsoft takes at the end of its reshuffling won’t just affect the future of entertainment on Xbox One, it’ll be the future of the Xbox One, and the gaming industry as a whole.