CNN To Cut Jobs Amid Ratings Collapse And Financial Woes

CNN is preparing to lay off hundreds of employees following a dramatic decline in ratings and ongoing financial difficulties. The move comes as CEO Mark Thompson works to pivot the network toward a digital-first strategy, eliminating roles tied to traditional television production.

Election night proved particularly challenging for CNN, which saw a 40% drop in viewership compared to the previous year. The network lagged behind Fox News and MSNBC, both of which also experienced declines but retained larger audiences.

Thompson’s restructuring plans could affect prominent anchors like Anderson Cooper, Erin Burnett, and Kaitlan Collins, whose salaries may face reductions. Meanwhile, Chris Wallace has announced his departure after three years of lackluster ratings, opting to pursue podcasting instead.

Critics argue that CNN’s woes are the result of years of partisan reporting that have alienated viewers. The network’s involvement in promoting discredited narratives, such as the Russia collusion hoax, has eroded trust among the public.

As CNN slashes redundancies and restructures its operations, the layoffs highlight the broader challenges facing legacy media. With viewers increasingly turning to alternative sources, traditional networks must adapt to survive.