According to CNN, Hallmark CEO Mike Perry issued a statement that reads, "I am sorry for the hurt and disappointment this has caused... Hallmark is, and always has been, committed to diversity and inclusion -- both in our workplace as well as the products and experiences we create. it is never Hallmark's intention to be divisive or generate controversy. We are an inclusive company and have a track record to prove it... Hallmark Channel will be reaching out to Zola to reestablish our partnership and reinstate the commercials... We will continue to look for ways to be more inclusive and celebrate our differences."
Updated on 01/23/20: The news is spreading that Bill Abbott is stepping down as president and CEO of Crown Media Family Networks is leaving the Hallmark Cards, Inc., family. Abbott is the executive responsible for yanking all of the lesbian-themed Zola advertisements from the Hallmark Channel last month, which resulted in tons of negative publicity for the corporation. His departure went into effect yesterday.