{alltv} Stars party with fired MTV big

Saturday, May 7, 2011

{alltv} Stars party with fired MTV big

If there were any question that former MTV Networks honcho Judy McGrath was pushed out by Viacom president Philippe Dauman, then her farewell speech to colleagues and friends, including U2's Bono and The Edge, said it all.

"I'm not gonna say much, because I think you know how I feel," she said to a group of 50 on the rooftop of Hotel Ink48 at the impromptu party following her resignation after three decades at the network was announced Thursday afternoon. The deejay and venue were hurriedly booked on Wednesday.

Wearing a laminate around her neck that read "Backstage for Life," she said, "I know you know how I feel . . . I'll send you an elaborate letter on Gmail . . . You're gonna fly your freak flags forever. I love you badly, and you know where I live."

The Roots raised the roof with "Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye," and McGrath rocked in the middle of the dance floor to classics, including "American Pie." She only stopped dancing to hear well-wishes from colleagues.

Stephen Colbert, in a plaid shirt and khakis, walked over to McGrath. "So many things I can't believe!" she was overheard telling the star, who reported to her at Comedy Central.

Much-loved McGrath's resignation came as a surprise to many as she navigated the network from its music-video days to being a cultural icon and producing wildly successful reality content like "Jersey Shore" and "Teen Mom."

Some in the room whispered that her departure means Executive Vice President David Janollari, a former WB Entertainment president, will have a greater role as the network seeks more provocative, intellectual programming.

"Judy chose to leave now because of the health of all of the networks," an MTV rep said. "MTV is doing incredibly well, so we won't be making changes. David Janollari will continue his role running programming."

A Viacom spokesperson said, "No comment," when asked about McGrath's final remarks.