Mariah Carey's Ex, James Packer In 'Health Issues'

Australian tycoon James Packer Wednesday quit as director of his gaming empire Crown Resorts as he battles “mental health issues,” stepping back from all commitments, his company said.

The billionaire mogul has been in the spotlight for personal reasons in recent years following his high-profile engagement and subsequent split from US diva Mariah Carey.


He was also questioned by police in December over a corruption probe involving Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is suspected of receiving luxury gifts from wealthy supporters.

Packer is not suspected of criminal conduct in either Israel or Australia.

“Mr James Packer today resigned from the board of Crown Resorts Ltd for personal reasons,” said a spokesperson for his private investment vehicle Consolidated Press Holdings, which is Crown’s largest shareholder.

“Mr Packer is suffering from mental health issues. At this time he intends to step back from all commitments.”

Packer had only returned to the board last year after previously stepping down to focus on international interests.

He returned to help oversee a revamp of the company after 19 current and former employees were held for 10 months in China on charges of luring rich Chinese to Australia.