The Timeline of Sam Altman's Dismissal from OpenAI: Key Events and Aftermath

In a shocking development late Friday, former Y Combinator president Sam Altman was dismissed as CEO of AI startup OpenAI, known for popular AI innovations such as ChatGPT, GPT-4, and DALL-E 3. This decision was made by OpenAI’s board of directors. Following Altman's departure, Greg Brockman, co-founder and longstanding president, also resigned, alongside three senior OpenAI researchers. The situation continues to evolve.

To help you keep track, we’ve compiled a timeline of key events surrounding Altman’s exit from OpenAI, which we’ll strive to keep updated.

Timeline of Sam Altman’s Dismissal from OpenAI

January 5

Bloomberg reveals that Microsoft has appointed Dee Templeton, VP for tech and research partnerships, as its non-voting board observer at OpenAI. Templeton has already begun participating in board meetings.

November 29

OpenAI announces that Microsoft will gain representation on its initial board of directors through a non-voting observer, although the specific identity of the observer remains undisclosed.

November 21

In a late announcement, OpenAI confirmed an agreement for Altman to return as CEO, alongside a newly established board comprising Bret Taylor, Larry Summers, and Adam D’Angelo.

“We have reached an agreement in principle for Sam Altman to return to OpenAI as CEO with a new initial board of Bret Taylor (Chair), Larry Summers, and Adam D'Angelo.”

— OpenAI via Twitter (@OpenAI)

Altman shared his view that his decision to join Microsoft on Sunday was in the best interest of both him and his team, signaling his willingness to return to the company he co-founded.

November 20

Altman and Brockman, among others, announce plans to join Microsoft to spearhead a new AI research unit. Nadella suggests that other OpenAI staff will also have the opportunity to join.

Sutskever’s Apology

Chief Scientist Ilya Sutskever expresses regret for participating in Altman’s dismissal and pledges to support his reinstatement.

“I deeply regret my participation in the board's actions. I never intended to harm OpenAI.”

— Ilya Sutskever via Twitter (@ilyasut)

Employee Resignation Threats

Over 500 of OpenAI’s approximately 770 employees, including Sutskever, sign a letter indicating they may quit unless Altman is reinstated. The number of signatories eventually climbs to more than 650.

Board Considers Merger

OpenAI’s board approaches Dario Amodei, CEO of competitor Anthropic, regarding a potential merger, aiming to persuade him to take over as CEO, but he declines.

November 19

Reports surface that Altman is expected to meet with executives at OpenAI, discussing a potential return as CEO. Meanwhile, internal negotiations reveal tensions, with the board showing reluctance to resign.

November 18

An internal memo from COO Brad Lightcap notes that the board’s decision to dismiss Altman was not related to any misconduct or financial issues, attributing it instead to a communication breakdown.

Funding Concerns

Sources indicate that OpenAI’s plans for a sale of employee shares — which would value the startup at around $86 billion — may be under threat after recent developments.

Investors Push for Return

Amid growing frustration, investors seek to influence OpenAI’s board to reinstate Altman, with Microsoft’s Nadella reportedly supportive of this move.

Board's Reversal

The board agrees in principle to allow Altman and Brockman to return, but fails to meet an important deadline for staff resignations.

November 17

Brockman receives a text from Sutskever notifying him of his removal as chairman, while also confirming Altman’s firing.

Public Announcement of Altman’s Firing

OpenAI officially announces Altman’s dismissal, prompting swift internal and external reactions.

“I loved my time at OpenAI. It was transformative for me personally, and I hope for the world.”

— Sam Altman via Twitter (@sama)

All-Hands Meeting

In an all-hands meeting, Sutskever defends the decision to let Altman go, denying accusations of a hostile takeover and emphasizing the need to protect OpenAI’s mission.

Microsoft Responds

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella releases a statement reaffirming the company's commitment to its partnership with OpenAI, despite the upheaval.

Brockman Resigns

Citing Altman’s firing, Greg Brockman announces his resignation from OpenAI.

Senior Resignations Follow

In the wake of Brockman's exit, three senior researchers also resign, including the director of research and head of preparedness.

November 16

Sutskever schedules a call with Altman, foreshadowing the internal conflicts that would soon escalate.

With developments still unfolding, industry observers continue to monitor the situation closely as it impacts the trajectory of AI innovation and leadership at OpenAI.