Daybreak CEO And President John Smedley Steps Down

A few days after retreating from social media due to harassment, Daybreak boss John Smedley has announced that he will be stepping down as President and CEO of the company.

Smedley co-founded Sony Online Entertainment, now called Daybreak, and helped to drive the direction of EverQuest, DC Universe Online, Planetside 2, and H1Z1. 

That said, he won't be leaving the games industry, much less the company, as he plans to return under a new role at Daybreak. 

In a statement to VentureBeat, Daybreak said that Chief Operating Officer Russell Shanks will be assuming his role as president, along with all of Smedley's duties. Shanks will oversee the future of the company with a committee. 

As for Smedley, he'll be sticking around with Daybreak under a new role. 

“John Smedley will be taking some time off from the company for the near-term and transitioning to a different role to be determined,” a Daybreak representative said. “Upon finalization of his plans, further communication will be provided.”

Smedley's decision to leave his role is understandable given recent events, which saw him face a barrage of harassment from hacker group Lizard Squad and their supporters over social media. The organization had even grounded a plane with Smedley on it by calling in a bomb threat. 

Smedley is well known for his outspoken character and respected for his engagement with players over social media. His presence will be duly missed.