Christiane Amanpour to Leave CNN After Over 40 Years

Christiane Amanpour, the renowned chief international anchor for CNN, has announced her decision to part ways with the network after an illustrious career spanning over four decades. This transition marks a significant moment for both Amanpour and CNN as she prepares to embark on a new journey.

Next Steps in Her Career

At 68 years old, Amanpour will initiate a gradual shift in her duties by reducing her well-known show on CNN International to a weekly broadcast starting in early 2027. Mark Thompson, CNN’s CEO, stated that she intends to conclude the program in May and officially depart from CNN at the end of June.

Amanpour's Impact on Journalism

Throughout her extensive career, Amanpour has been at the forefront of major global stories, covering critical international events such as the fall of the Berlin Wall, the conflicts in Bosnia, and the Persian Gulf War. In addition, she has reported on the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan following the events of September 11, 2001, the Arab Spring, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, as well as Israel's situation in Gaza.

Amanpour’s interviews with notable figures, including former U.S. President Bill Clinton and former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, highlight her influential role in journalism and her ability to engage with key world leaders on pressing issues.

Expressions of Gratitude

In her farewell statement, Amanpour extended her appreciation to her colleagues at both CNN and PBS, where she also hosted “Amanpour & Company.” She thanked her dedicated teams for their partnership in pursuing the truth and ensuring that CNN delivered critical news worldwide.

“We battled to seek the facts, the evidence, and the humanity, so that CNN could always broadcast the truth about the world and to the world, without fear or favor,” Amanpour reflected on her career journey.

Corporate Changes at CNN

This significant career move comes shortly after Paramount Skydance's acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, the parent company of CNN. Despite these corporate shifts, Mark Thompson will retain his role as head of CNN, now reporting to the co-CEOs of Skydance, David Ellison and Ynon Kreiz.