CNN legal journalist Paula Reid is reportedly leaving the network for MS NOW due to concerns surrounding Paramount Skydance's acquisition of CNN, according to a report by Variety. Reid reportedly turned down an offer to renew her contract with CNN, with sources indicating her decision was influenced by the perceived chaos and potential leadership changes under the new ownership.
Concerns have been raised that Paramount CEO David Ellison, who is expected to lead CNN once the purchase of Warner Bros. Discovery is finalized, might install CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss as the head of CNN. Weiss has reportedly generated public controversies, and some CNN employees fear a significant shift in editorial direction. This has contributed to an atmosphere of uncertainty within the news organization.
Reid originally joined CNN in 2021, following a tenure as a White House correspondent for CBS News. Neither MS NOW nor CNN have officially confirmed Reid's departure to Fox News Digital. A spokesperson for MS NOW stated, "As a general matter of practice, we don’t comment on personnel matters," but added that "Paula Reid is an exceptional reporter, and any news organization would be fortunate to showcase her journalism."
Reports from February described a "horrific" mood among CNN staff as the sale to Paramount loomed. Insiders at CNN have expressed worries about potential job losses and "editorial indifference" following a merger with CBS News. Some CNN personalities have publicly voiced their apprehension about the impending changes. Journalist Kara Swisher had previously stated she would leave if Ellison took charge. Veteran journalist Christiane Amanpour has also shared concerns, referencing past issues at CBS News under similar leadership transitions, including a decline in viewership and potential ideological shifts.