Jim Acosta, CNN’s controversial anchor known for his confrontations with the Trump administration, is reportedly leaving the network after being offered a midnight timeslot.
Top Takeaways
- Jim Acosta is expected to leave CNN after losing his 10am show and being offered a midnight slot.
- CNN’s head, Mark Thompson, made cuts and reshuffled the network’s schedule, leading to Acosta’s demotion.
- Acosta gained notoriety for his combative interactions with Trump, including a 2018 incident where his press credentials were revoked.
- The move is seen as part of CNN’s shift towards a more neutral political stance.
- Acosta’s departure aligns with recent changes at CNN, including 200 layoffs and increased airtime for conservative voices.
Acosta’s Departure from CNN
Jim Acosta, the CNN anchor known for his bold reporting style, especially during the Trump administration, is reportedly set to leave the network. This decision comes after CNN offered him a midnight timeslot, a significant change from his previous 10am show. The move is part of a larger reshuffling within CNN’s broadcasting schedule, implemented by the network’s head, Mark Thompson.
The scheduling change appears to have been a deal-breaker for Acosta. Sources indicate that he was given an ultimatum to accept the midnight slot or face an uncertain future at CNN. Despite attempts to position the show for prime time on the west coast, concerns about ratings persisted.
Acosta’s Controversial Career at CNN
Throughout his tenure at CNN, Acosta became well-known for his confrontational reporting style, particularly in his interactions with President Donald Trump. These encounters often made headlines and solidified Acosta’s reputation as a persistent and sometimes controversial journalist.
One notable incident occurred in 2018 when Acosta’s press credentials were temporarily revoked following a heated exchange with Trump during a press conference. This event further heightened tensions between the White House and CNN, while also increasing Acosta’s profile in the media landscape.
CNN’s Shifting Strategy
Acosta’s departure comes amid broader changes at CNN. The network recently announced 200 layoffs and major programming adjustments. These moves are seen as part of an effort to shift away from CNN’s perceived liberal stance and towards a more neutral political position.
The network has reportedly been giving more airtime to conservative voices recently, further indicating a potential shift in its editorial direction. Some speculate that Acosta’s move to a midnight slot could be an attempt to curry favor with the current administration, though this remains unconfirmed.
Reactions and Future Prospects
Acosta’s impending departure has elicited mixed reactions within CNN and the broader media community. Some colleagues have expressed relief, while others acknowledge his diligence and commitment to journalism. As for Acosta himself, sources suggest he “struggled with the choice” to leave the network.
While Acosta’s future plans remain unclear, his high profile and experience as CNN’s chief domestic correspondent post-2020 election suggest he may have opportunities elsewhere in the media landscape. As the story continues to develop, many will be watching to see where this polarizing figure lands next in his journalism career.
Sources:
- CNN anchor Jim Acosta ‘leaving embattled network after being demoted to graveyard shift’
- Jim Acosta expected to leave CNN after he’s pulled from network’s programming schedule
- Jim Acosta leaving CNN after being pulled from network’s programming schedule: report
