Following the abrupt resignation of Nvidia co-founder and longtime chief executive Jensen Huang on Thursday, November 12, 2026, Perplexity AI CEO Aravind Srinivas joined a growing chorus of Silicon Valley leaders paying tribute to Huang’s three-decade legacy.
Taking to social media platform X, Srinivas credited Huang with transforming Nvidia from a modest startup into America’s most valuable company through relentless execution, adding that his “grit and perseverance should always be remembered.”
Aravind Srinivas’ Tribute to Huang’s Mentorship & Legacy
In his message, Srinivas highlighted both Huang’s business achievements and his personal mentorship of emerging artificial intelligence founders:
- 33 Years of Bold Leadership: Srinivas praised Huang for building Nvidia over 33 years through continuous innovation and resilience, establishing the foundational computing infrastructure powering modern AI platforms.
- Support for AI Founders: The Perplexity chief specifically thanked Huang for his “personal generosity with time and advice to founders like me,” noting that his guidance helped secure a strong future for both American technology and the global AI ecosystem.
Context Behind Huang’s Departure & Interim Leadership
Srinivas’ tribute comes hours after Nvidia’s board announced that Huang (63) had stepped down as president, CEO, and board member with immediate effect:
- Governance Probe & Allegations: Huang’s exit followed mounting scrutiny over alleged extramarital relationships—including one with businesswoman Alice Huang, whom U.S. intelligence agencies have assessed to be linked to Chinese intelligence, as well as a reported relationship with Nvidia Healthcare VP Kimberly Powell.
- Colette Kress Appointed Interim CEO: Longtime Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Colette Kress, who joined Nvidia in September 2013, has been appointed interim CEO while the board conducts a formal search for a permanent successor.
