Long-serving CNN correspondent Stephanie Elam has marked the end of her illustrious career at the network, announcing her departure after more than two decades of dedicated service. Elam’s final appearances on CNN’s flagship shows, News Central and The Lead with Jake Tapper, took place in mid-April, allowing her to reflect on her extensive tenure and the bonds she has formed over the years.
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Elam first joined CNN in 2003, before making a brief exit and returning in 2013. During her years with the network, she covered a wide range of pivotal events, including the tragic deaths of music icons Michael Jackson and Prince, as well as significant natural disasters like the Kilauea volcano eruption in Hawaii. Her versatile reporting skills saw her tackle subjects from environmental issues to business and breaking news stories.
In a heartfelt farewell on CNN News Central, Elam expressed her gratitude to her colleagues, highlighting the strength of the relationships she built throughout her career. Her colleague Sara Sidner shared touching sentiments, stating, “Everyone here is sad to see it,” and praised Elam for being a supportive friend during tough times, referencing Sidner’s own battle with cancer.
Elam affirmed her deep connections with those she worked alongside, stating, “You’re not getting rid of me, I love you. Tell everyone there, every stage manager, everyone there, I love you guys. It’s been a joy working with you all.” These words captured the camaraderie that had developed within the CNN team over the years.
In a reflective statement posted on social media, Elam looked back on her journey at CNN, expressing her pride in her career full of impactful storytelling. She remarked, “For more than 20 years I’ve been in the CNN orbit developing and delivering news stories on everything from the environment and entertainment to business and breaking news of all kinds.” Elam acknowledged the privilege of reporting on history as it unfolded, describing it as a “gift.”
CNN released a statement celebrating Elam’s contributions, applauding her for bringing “clarity, credibility, and heart” to every story she covered. The network hailed her natural ability to engage audiences, which made her a trusted voice and a cherished colleague. They expressed their gratitude for her many years of service and wished her well in her future endeavours.
Tapper, during Elam’s last segment on The Lead, reminisced about their first encounters while covering tornadoes in Oklahoma years prior. He praised her tenacity and skill as a journalist, adding, “We’re really gonna miss you. I do not know what’s going on, but when I take over the company, I will bring you back,” eliciting laughter from the studio.
Elam’s exit from CNN comes shortly after the announcement by anchor Rahel Solomon that she would also be leaving the network. Solomon joined CNN from CNBC in 2022. News of both departures has prompted reflection among colleagues and audiences alike about the changes unfolding at the network.
As Elam moves on from CNN, the journalism community will undoubtedly remember her contributions to news broadcasting. Her commitment to journalism and her warm, engaging presence will be sorely missed by her colleagues and viewers who have followed her career over the years. As she embarks on the next chapter of her life, many will be eager to see where her journey takes her.