Peter Gelb Reverses Retirement Plans, Will Stay at Met Opera Beyond 2030

Peter Gelb, the Metropolitan Opera's general manager, has changed his previous stance on retiring in 2030, now expressing a wish to remain beyond his contract's end on July 31, 2030, as long as he maintains good health and receives support from the board. In a New York Times piece, Gelb referred to his earlier comments as an "errant remark," identifying himself as a workaholic who finds fulfillment in his job. Ann Ziff, chair of the Met board, voiced strong backing, noting it would be "crazy" not to pursue another contract with him. Senior board members praised Gelb's initiatives to modernize the company and tackle financial challenges. Despite this, some members advocate for bankruptcy protection due to a $62 million credit line maturing in February, a strategy Gelb opposes as a "last resort." Since taking the helm in 2006, Gelb has faced financial difficulties, including credit downgrades and declining endowment values. His recent agreement with Saudi Arabia collapsed amid the Iran conflict, and revenues from HD broadcasts have dwindled, only covering production costs.