• by Ray Schultz , January 9, 2024

Kevin Merida is stepping down as executive editor of the Los Angeles Times -- effective Friday, according to announcements by Merida and Times owner Patrick Soon-Shiong. 

“Today, with a heavy heart, I announce that I am leaving The Times,” Merida wrote to the staff. “I made the decision in consultation with Patrick, after considerable soul-searching about my career at this stage and how I can best be of value to the profession I love.” 

Soon-Shiong informed the staff in a note that he and Merida had “mutually agreed” to Merida’s departure.  

The Times team won three Pulitzer Prizes under Merida in 2023.

However, there were reported stresses over budgeting and other issues. 

Merida, who took over almost three years ago, drew criticism for restricting reporters who had signed a protest letter condemning Israel’s response to the Oct. 7 attacks from covering the conflict in Gaza, according to The New York Times. 

That decision seemingly reflected sound journalistic practice.

Soon-Shiong will be looking for a replacement in and out of the company. 

Last June, the L.A. Times reduced its newsroom staff by 13% -- some 74 positions.