• by Melynda Fuller , April 30, 2020

The Hollywood Reporter has tapped Nekesa Mumbi Moody as its next editorial director, following the departure of longtime editor Matt Belloni earlier this month.

Moody comes to the title from the Associated Press.

During her time there, Moody served as global entertainment and lifestyles editor, a role she’s held since 2012, and oversaw a team of 40 journalists. She also oversaw multiformat entertainment coverage, breaking news, producing exclusive content for newspapers, online portals and broadcasters, TheHollywood Reporter stated.

Previously, Moody served as the AP's music editor from 2000 to 2012. In that role, she was the first to report on the death of Whitney Houston and the first to confirm the death of Prince, who she also interviewed. She also conducted interviews with Barbra Streisand, Beyonce and Luciano Pavarotti.

"Nekesa is an incredibly smart, well-respected journalist and seasoned leader who can confidently shape the next chapter of this venerable brand," said Deanna Brown, president of Billboard-The Hollywood Reporter Media Group.

Belloni stepped down from his role after 14 years with The Hollywood Reporter following disagreements with the company’s leadership, including Asif Satchu and Modi Wiczyk, co-CEOs of Billboard-Hollywood Reporter Media Group's parent company Valence Media.

This month, The Hollywood Reporter, along with fellow Valence Media title Billboard, announced plans to cut staffers, reportedly looking to lower expenses through layoffs and cost cutting by $10 million.