John Solberg, the long-time head of communications at FX, has announced that he will be stepping down from his position when his contract expires in January. Solberg has been with FX for over 28 years, starting back when the network was primarily known for airing repeats of shows like “The X-Files.” Throughout his tenure, he climbed the ranks from director of media relations to EVP of publicity.
One of Solberg’s major accomplishments during his time at FX was his instrumental role in launching the critically acclaimed series “The Shield,” which earned star Michael Chiklis an Emmy award in 2002. This marked a significant milestone for basic cable programming, as it was the first time an actor from a basic cable show had won an Emmy. Over the years, FX continued to produce award-winning and culturally significant series, with recent hits like “Shogun” and “The Bear” dominating the Emmy Awards.
FX chairman John Landgraf praised Solberg for his dedication to the network and its creative partners, highlighting his passion for storytelling and respect for journalism. Solberg’s departure will undoubtedly leave a void at FX, as he was beloved by staff and talent alike. His wife, Maeve, who passed away last year, was also a cherished member of the FX family, and her memorial service was attended by many FX talent as a show of support for Solberg.
In a heartfelt note to the company, Solberg expressed his gratitude for his time at FX and the opportunity to work on groundbreaking and acclaimed shows. He credited the talented producers, writers, actors, and directors he had the privilege of collaborating with over the years for making his job so rewarding. Solberg also thanked the journalists and critics who covered FX and its shows, acknowledging their role as essential arbiters of the network’s performance.
As Solberg bids farewell to FX, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and a team of dedicated professionals who will continue to uphold the network’s standard of quality. His note reflects his deep appreciation for his colleagues, leaders, and family, who supported him throughout his career. While the decision to step down was a difficult one, Solberg is grateful for his time at FX and the lasting impact it has had on him.
In closing, Solberg urged his colleagues to “Stay Fearless” and signed off with a heartfelt “Godspeed.” His departure marks the end of an era at FX, but his influence and dedication to the network will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.
