Christiane Amanpour, the renowned chief international anchor at CNN, has announced her decision to part ways with the network after an impressive 43-year tenure. In an announcement made on Monday, October 19th, Amanpour confirmed that she will officially leave the company in June 2027.
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Amanpour conveyed the gravity of her choice in a heartfelt statement, reflecting on the many months of contemplation that preceded her decision. “After many months of thought and a few sleepless nights, I have decided to separate from CNN, my partner of 43 fantastic years,” she stated, underlining the depth of her commitment to the network over the decades.
In her comments, she expressed excitement for new ventures that lie ahead, stating she looks forward to “interesting new projects down the line.” However, she also took a moment to pay tribute to CNN, emphasising her ongoing support for the channel’s legacy of independent journalism. She reminded her audience, “Remember: always be truthful, not neutral.”
Amanpour has been a prominent figure in broadcasting since 2009, when she began hosting her prestigious interview programme, “Amanpour”, on CNN International. In a gradual transition, she plans to reduce her hosting duties over the coming months, starting with scaling back to a few days a week in January 2025, before reducing to just one day a week the following January. Her final episode of the show is slated for May, coinciding with the conclusion of her longstanding relationship with CNN.
In addition to her work with CNN, Amanpour has hosted “Amanpour & Company” on PBS since 2017, with that series also set to wrap up in December. Notably, she will continue to host “The Ex Files”, a podcast produced with her ex-husband, Jamie Rubin.
The timing of Amanpour’s announcement is particularly significant, coming just weeks after Paramount Skydance completed its acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. This shift in ownership has prompted speculation and anticipation regarding future changes at the media company.
Throughout her illustrious career, Amanpour has covered many of the world’s most pressing conflicts, from the First Gulf War to Rwanda, Afghanistan, and Ukraine. She reflected on the camaraderie she experienced with her teams through these turbulent times, honouring their collective efforts to uncover the truth and deliver it to audiences globally. “As we together battled to seek the facts, the evidence and the humanity, it’s the teams and the camaraderie that counted so much,” she shared.
Mark Thompson, CNN’s chairman, communicated his sentiments regarding Amanpour’s departure in a memo circulated within the organisation. He acknowledged the discussions leading to this decision, stating, “I’m very sorry to see her go, but I’ve come to accept that this is the right time for her, both personally and professionally.” He praised Amanpour as “one of the most trusted and beloved journalists anywhere” and noted that CNN intends to celebrate her significant contributions before her departure.
As reflection surrounding Amanpour’s career unfolds, many will undoubtedly recognise her enduring influence within the field of journalism. Her powerful journalism has not only showcased her dedication but also inspired countless viewers and aspiring reporters globally.
As she sets her sights on future endeavours, Amanpour’s legacy at CNN is poised to leave a lasting imprint, ensuring she remains an iconic figure in news reporting for years to come. With an emphasis on truth and the human element within stories, she exemplifies the values at the very heart of journalism.