CNN’s third-place cable news network will no longer feature “partisan hackery” or “ideological talking points,” according to CNN president Chris Licht.
In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, Licht stated that the changes he intends to implement at CNN are intended to “restore trust” to the tarnished brand, which previously advertised itself as “The Most Trusted Name in News.”
One of Licht’s most important responsibilities is revamping CNN’s coveted 9 p.m. slot, which Chris Cuomo held until he was dismissed in late 2021.
The executive addressed rumors that he is searching for a comic to fill that time slot in order to increase the network’s ratings, but he did not specify which comedians the network is interviewing. Names like Bill Maher, Trevor Noah In recent weeks, Jon Stewart and Arsenio Hall have been mentioned frequently.
“We are in discussions with culturally significant figures from the entertainment, sports, and comedy industries who can bring fresh and original perspectives to the news,” Licht stated.
Licht responded, “There is nothing wrong with viewpoint or perspective, especially in prime time, but it must be genuine. We have no interest whatsoever in partisan hackery or ideological talking points.”
The executive also contemplated flying to Washington to meet with Republican politicians in an effort to persuade them that they would receive a fair interview on CNN, which had been accused of favoring the left under Jeff Zucker’s tenure.
“It was a straightforward message. “If you’re seeking a softball interview, you’ve come to the wrong place,” Licht remarked. “However, we also want to be a place where there is an open exchange of ideas and everyone is treated with respect. We will not encourage you to compete against you.”
Licht gave a confusing response when asked whether CNN has agreed not to cover specific themes while interviewing Republicans, adding that Rep. Ryan Zinke (R-MT) was not asked about ethics investigations during a recent appearance.
He explained, “There are absolutely no deals like that.” “If he was promoting something that contradicts something from his past, we would absolutely say, ‘But wait a minute, you had to retire,’ or ‘You had to resign because of X, Y, and Z.’”
He continued, “However, if he’s coming on to discuss a limited topic, such as what was happening on the House floor, this is not the appropriate platform. If we’re conducting a comprehensive interview, you’ll naturally ask those questions.”
Licht also discussed the lackluster numbers for the new “CNN This Morning” co-hosted by Don Lemon, Poppy Harlow, and Kaitlan Collins.
“Early morning. “It’s still finding its footing,” he stated before moving to the network’s dismal numbers.
“We are fundamentally restructuring the network,” he explained. “And it will take some time for that to settle into a routine, followed by time to sell it. Therefore, it will require some time to grow again. I have been expressly granted this time.”
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