Mystery Reason Behind $6 Million Payment That Got Forbes Editor Fired Explained

Screenshot via @randall.lane on Instagram

The mystery of why a now-fired Forbes editor received $6 million from the founder of a research firm that works closely with the outlet has been solved.

RJ Shook, the founder of Shook Research, released a statement to The New York Times on Monday explaining the financial transaction, which ultimately led to the dismissal of Randall Lane, the former chief content officer of Forbes.

“My actions were taken with the best intentions, but ultimately the payment was a mistake,” Shook explained. “I deeply regret that this has raised questions about the integrity and independence of Shook’s rankings.”

Shook Research provides rankings of financial advisors and more to Forbes to help the outlet compile lists. According to Shook, he made the payment to Lane because he had been instrumental in facilitating the partnership between Forbes and Shook Research. He also said Lane provided “professional advice and guidance” when Shook was selling his majority stake to private equity firm PPC Enterprises last August. The payment was made after the sale.

“He provided professional advice and guidance to me. In 2016, Randall helped to facilitate the partnership between Forbes Media and Shook Research. Later, he provided assistance in connection with my efforts to sell the company,” Shook said about Lane.

Shook Research said the payment was not disclosed to PPC Enterprises last year. Shook left the research firm in June.

According to an employee handbook, employees of Forbes are barred from personally benefiting from the company’s business relationships. Lane said he made a “mistake.”

“I made a mistake, and I take responsibility for it,” he said in a previous statement. “I should have disclosed the gift, and failing to was a serious error in judgment. I deeply regret that, and I lost the job and team I love because of it. None of this changes how I feel about Forbes and the amazing people there.”

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