Big shake-ups could be in the works for CNN as the long-running cable news network adjusts to the new media landscape and a second Donald Trump presidency — and in addition to the possibility of imminent layoffs, the network could be gearing up to shuffle around some of its longtime anchors.
CNBC reported on Wednesday that CNN intended to announce layoffs impacting some 210 employees, or approximately six percent of its total staff. The news came alongside reports of layoffs at NBC as well, although the number of employees impacted by those is expected to be much lower. The layoffs at both networks, according to the report, are part of a shift in focus toward more digital content as fewer and fewer people turn to broadcast and cable news for information.
Along with the layoffs, anchors at CNN could also see some changes in their schedules and assignments, Fox News Digital reported on Thursday — and they may not be thrilled at the prospect.
Veteran CNN broadcaster Jim Acosta, who made a name for himself during Trump’s first term in office by becoming a regular foil both for Trump and for then-White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders, could balk at a possible move to late nights.
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The move, reportedly pitched by CNN CEO Mark Thompson, would see Acosta moved from his current one-hour time slot at 10 a.m. ET weekdays to a two-hour slot beginning at midnight — which was described in the report as a move to “effectively exile Acosta to the Siberia of television news.”
Acosta, according to an unnamed CNN staffer, appears to be “getting hosed” by the network — and may not be given another option outside the proposed midnight slot. “Acosta is a talented broadcaster who could handle any slot on the network. The midnight thing is shocking [but] it is what it is.”
The Los Angeles Times reported that Acosta, rather than take the late-night spot, could be considering a timely exit from the network.
Acosta is not the only longtime broadcaster who could see a dramatic change. Thompson has already confirmed that Wolf Blitzer’s long-running program “The Situation Room” will move from early evenings to Acosta’s current slot at 10 a.m. ET, and he will share anchor duties with Pamela Brown.
