[Update: 3 p.m CT]
Webster PR will now operate under the name Westby PR, according to MusicRow.
Westby PR will be led by Jeremy Westby, Kirt Webster’s longtime colleague.
The statement obtained by MusicRow included the following:
Earlier today, it was mistakenly posted on the Webster Public Relations’ website that the firm has been closed. This was stated incorrectly. Webster Public Relations will continue operating – but under the name Westby Public Relations – while Kirt Webster takes some time away from the business to focus on combating the egregious and untrue allegations made against him. The company’s work on behalf of its clients will continue under the leadership of Jeremy Westby, Kirt’s longstanding colleague.
[Previous Story: 12 p.m.]
On Nov. 1, a posting on Webster PR’s website stated the firm was no longer in business. A screenshot of the firm’s statement is below.
Webster PR represented a number of artists, including Dolly Parton, Charlie Daniels, Kenny Rogers, Justin Moore, Kid Rock and many more.
The reported closing comes after the company’s founder, Kirt Webster, was accused of sexual misconduct by Austin Rick, who moved to Nashville in 2008 to pursue a country music career. Rick, who used the stage name Austin Cody, claims Kirt made sexual advances toward him and abused him.
Rick made the claims on Facebook and has since started a GoFundMe page to raise money for legal expenses.
