End of an Era: Christiane Amanpour to Depart CNN After 43 Years

 

Renowned international journalist and CNN Chief International Anchor Christiane Amanpour announced on Monday, October 19, that she will be leaving the network after a career spanning 43 years.

Amanpour, 68, shared the news with colleagues in an emotional memo, reflecting on her transformative journey from entry-level assistant to one of the most recognizable foreign correspondents in global television news. Her departure will follow a phased transition concluding in mid-2027.

Departure Timeline and Future Plans

According to statements released by CNN and Amanpour, her flagship program, Amanpour, will transition from a daily schedule to a weekly broadcast on CNN International in early 2027 before coming to a close in May. She will formally separate from the network in June 2027.

"After many months of thought and a few sleepless nights, I have decided to separate from CNN, my partner of 43 fantastic years!" Amanpour stated. "I look forward to interesting new projects down the line, and will always be rooting for CNN and maintaining its history of independent journalism. Remember: always be truthful, not neutral."

Additionally, Amanpour confirmed she will conclude her long-running PBS interview show, Amanpour & Co., at the end of the year, while continuing her independent media ventures—including her podcast The Ex Files with former U.S. diplomat James Rubin.

A Four-Decade Legacy on the Frontlines

Amanpour joined CNN in 1983 as an entry-level assistant on the international assignment desk in Atlanta. Over four decades, she established herself as a fearless voice in conflict reporting, gaining worldwide acclaim for her coverage of:

• The Persian Gulf War (1990–1991): Providing ground-level reporting from the Middle East during Operation Desert Storm.

• The Bosnian War: Delivering reports on the siege of Sarajevo and human rights abuses across the Balkans.

• Global World Leaders: Conducting rare, high-stakes interviews with international heads of state, dictators, and diplomatic figures across the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.

CNN CEO Mark Thompson praised Amanpour as "one of the most trusted and beloved journalists anywhere," noting that the network plans to celebrate her extensive contributions prior to her 2027 exit.

Changing Landscape at CNN

Amanpour's announcement comes amid broader corporate changes at the network following the recent completion of the Skydance and Paramount merger with Warner Bros. Discovery. While Amanpour did not cite the merger as a direct reason for her departure, her exit marks a major shift for CNN as it navigates a new era of leadership and media realignment.