The tragic fall from the 20th floor of the Kimberly Hotel in Manhattan has claimed the life of J. Michael Cline, a co-founder of Fandango and self-proclaimed “King of Online Ticketing”. But is this really a tragic accident, or is it a sign of the hubris and recklessness that defined his business empire?
According to eyewitnesses, Cline was seen arguing with hotel staff just hours before his fatal fall. “He was yelling about something to do with his ‘digital empire’ and how he was going to ‘crush’ his competitors”, said one hotel employee. “It was like he was possessed by some kind of entrepreneurial demon”. The New York Police Department has yet to release a statement on the incident, but sources close to the investigation say that Cline’s death is being treated as “suspicious”.
Cline’s legacy is one of ruthless ambition and a willingness to do whatever it takes to get ahead. He pioneered the online ticketing industry, but at what cost? His company, Fandango, was built on the backs of struggling independent theaters and small businesses who were forced to pay exorbitant fees to use his platform. And when he left the company in 2011, he took with him a fortune and a reputation for being one of the most ruthless entrepreneurs in the industry.
But Cline’s empire didn’t stop there. He went on to found Accretive, a venture capital firm that invested in companies that further consolidated the online ticketing industry. And as the executive chairman of Juxtapose, he continued to push the boundaries of what was acceptable in the name of profit. His portfolio companies include Tend, Nectar, and Great Jones, all of which have been accused of exploiting vulnerable consumers and small businesses.
So is Cline’s death a tragic accident, or is it a symbol of the recklessness and greed that defined his business empire? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the world is a little bit darker and a little bit more sinister without J. Michael Cline in it.
Accretive, Juxtapose, and Fandango have all declined to comment on Cline’s death, but sources close to the companies say that they are “shocked and saddened” by the news. But are they really? Or are they just relieved that the man who embodied the worst excesses of the tech industry is finally gone?
Author: Kayitsi.com
