Xbox Icon Larry 'Major Nelson' Hryb Announces Departure From Microsoft After 22 Years

Larry "Major Nelson" Hryb, Xbox's director of programming and a prominent figure in the company for 22 years, announced his departure from Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ: MSFT).

Known for his extensive work in the Xbox community, including podcasts and fan meet-and-greets, his absence will surely be deeply felt by both colleagues and fans.

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"After 20 incredible years, I have decided to take a step back and work on the next chapter of my career. As I take a moment and think about all we have done together, I want to thank the millions of gamers around the world who have included me as part of their lives," Hryb wrote on his personal Twitter account, expressing gratitude to Xbox fans and his Microsoft colleagues.

He added: "Also, thanks to Xbox team members for trusting me to have a direct dialogue with our customers. The future is bright for Xbox and as a gamer, I am excited to see the evolution."

After 20 incredible years, I have decided to take a step back and work on the next chapter of my career. As I take a moment and think about all we have done together, I want to thank the millions of gamers around the world who have included me as part of their lives. (1/3)

— Larry Hryb 💫✨ (@majornelson) July 14, 2023

Hryb also announced Xbox's official podcast will be on hiatus for the summer and return with a new format without him.

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Photo: CryptoFX on Shutterstock and photo courtesy Major Nelson on Flickr.