Christiane Amanpour to Depart CNN After 43 Years

Christiane Amanpour, a prominent figure at CNN for over four decades, announced Monday that she will be leaving the network. Her departure comes in the wake of Skydance's acquisition of CNN's parent company, Warner Bros. Discovery, a development that has reportedly caused anxiety within the newsroom.

Amanpour, recognized globally for her interviews with world leaders and reporting from conflict zones, stated in a note that she would remain with CNN until June of the following year. "After many months of thought and a few sleepless nights, I have decided to separate from CNN, my partner of 43 fantastic years!" she said. She added that she looks forward to future projects and will "always be rooting for CNN and maintaining its history of independent journalism."

Speculation surrounding Amanpour's exit suggests potential philosophical differences with Skydance CEO David Ellison, the new owner. Amanpour had previously expressed "concern" over Ellison's purchase of Warner Bros. Discovery, citing changes at CBS News after Ellison appointed a new editor-in-chief with a mandate for greater balance. "Clearly I'm concerned, and I'm not sure how much I'm allowed to say about the corporate thing that's underway, but I am obviously as a person, as a journalist with a record concerned," Amanpour said in May. She further questioned the management of CBS News under Ellison, noting reports of viewer and financial declines and the potential disruption to programs like "60 Minutes."

Her coverage of the release of Israeli hostages in October drew criticism, particularly a comment where she stated the hostages were "probably being treated better than the average Gazan, because they are the pawns and the chips that Hamas had." Amanpour later apologized for the remark, calling it "insensitive and wrong."

Financial considerations have also been raised as a possible factor. Skydance is reportedly managing billions in debt following the merger, and Ellison and co-CEO Ynon Kriez are implementing cost-cutting measures. Amanpour's annual salary is understood to be in the millions.

Health issues may also have played a role. In January 2025, Amanpour reduced her hosting duties after revealing her ovarian cancer had returned for a third time. She had been initially diagnosed in May 2021.

CNN Chairman Mark Thompson informed colleagues of Amanpour's decision in a memo, acknowledging her long tenure and contributions. "Christiane has thought carefully about this decision, and she and I have been discussing it for some months," Thompson wrote. "Like so many CNNers who will hear the news today, 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." Thompson described Amanpour as "one of the most trusted and beloved journalists anywhere" and indicated that the network would honor her career before her departure.

During her time at CNN, Amanpour gained renown for her foreign correspondence, covering major global conflicts. She has also hosted her namesake interview program, "Amanpour," on CNN International since 2009.