Cynthia Littleton was the recently named (well, last March) editor of The Hollywood Reporter and Anne Thompson was deputy film editor. They join Variety as deputy editor for news development (Littleton) and deputy editor, Variety.com (Thompson.) From Variety's story:

"Variety is delighted to welcome two important new voices to our organization," said Peter Bart, editor in chief. "Cynthia and Anne are two of the most knowledgeable and respected editors covering media and entertainment. Their talents will provide a powerful force in furthering Variety's initiatives both online and in print."

Littleton assumes the title of deputy editor for news development and Thompson, deputy editor, Variety.com. They will contribute both as editors and columnists, with their work appearing online and in print across the spectrum of Variety media products.

Nikki Finke calls it "very surprising news" and former Variety editor Tom Tapp says at Hollywood Wiretap: "I guess we all knew it was coming, but wow."