Christiane Amanpour to Depart CNN in Mid-2027 After More Than Four Decades

Veteran CNN International anchor Christiane Amanpour said she will reduce her weekly program “Amanpour” to a single episode in early 2027 and will exit the network at the end of June 2027, concluding more than 43 years of service.

CNN chief executive Mark Thompson wrote to staff that Amanpour had “thought carefully about this decision” and that the timing was right for a new chapter both personally and professionally.

In an on-air address, Amanpour thanked viewers and emphasized her commitment to independent journalism, noting the “pressures” the network faces from political, financial and safety angles. She added, "Now, you know I've always been fiercely independent, and I will continue to be that for you for as long as I am here and beyond," and > "Remember: always be truthful, not neutral."

Amanpour’s departure marks the first high-profile journalist exit since the recent acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery by Skydance, which also includes CNN. While she has not linked her decision to the ownership change, she previously expressed concerns about the new owner’s handling of other news outlets.

Colleagues described her as a prominent figure at CNN, noting her long-standing influence on the network’s brand and journalistic reputation.