Veteran journalist Christiane Amanpour has announced her decision to leave CNN after more than four decades with the network, as the broadcaster undergoes a major ownership transition.
CNN recently came under the ownership of Skydance, led by Chief Executive Officer David Ellison, who has faced criticism over his leadership of CBS News.
In a video statement, Amanpour said she had spent several months carefully considering her decision before choosing to part ways with CNN, describing her 43 years at the network as an extraordinary chapter in her career. She also joked that her time there had lasted longer than many marriages.
Amanpour confirmed that her daily CNN programme would end in December 2026. However, she will continue presenting her flagship show, Amanpour, on a weekly basis until June 2027.
Expressing gratitude to her production team and colleagues, the veteran correspondent emphasised the importance of the relationships and teamwork developed throughout her long career at the network.
Amanpour began her rise to international prominence while covering the first Gulf War. Over the years, she reported from several major conflict zones, including Bosnia, Rwanda, Afghanistan, Ukraine and Iran, establishing herself as one of the most recognisable figures in international journalism.
Earlier this month, Skydance completed its reported $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, bringing CNN and CBS News under the same corporate umbrella.
CNN chief executive Mark Thompson and CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss have retained their positions under the new ownership structure. Both executives report to Ellison and co-chief executive Ynon Kreiz.
Ellison has also faced criticism from US lawmakers over allegations that CBS News coverage has been shaped to favour President Donald Trump. The controversy has drawn further attention to the leadership and editorial independence of major American news organisations.
