Veteran journalist Christiane Amanpour has announced that she will leave CNN in June 2027, bringing an end to a remarkable 43-year career with the international news network.
Amanpour, 68, currently serves as CNN’s chief international anchor and has spent decades reporting on major global conflicts, political developments and humanitarian crises. Her departure will mark the end of a significant chapter in the network’s history and one of the most recognizable careers in international journalism.
In a statement shared by CNN on Monday, October 19, 2026, Amanpour said she had spent months considering the decision before choosing to move on to new opportunities. She also expressed appreciation for her colleagues and reaffirmed her support for independent journalism.
CNN Show to End in May 2027
As part of her departure, Amanpour’s programme, Amanpour, on CNN International will move from its current schedule to a weekly format at the beginning of 2027. The show is scheduled to end at the close of May, with her final departure from the network planned for June.
She will also conclude her PBS programme, Amanpour and Company, at the end of 2026. However, she plans to continue co-hosting The Ex Files podcast with her former husband, Jamie Rubin, a former United States diplomat.
CNN chairman and chief executive Mark Thompson said Amanpour had carefully considered the decision and that discussions about her departure had taken place over several months. He praised her decades of journalism, loyalty and contribution to the organization.
From CNN’s Early Years to International Recognition
Amanpour began working at CNN in 1983, initially as an assistant on the international assignment desk. She gradually advanced through the organization, establishing herself as a prominent foreign correspondent and eventually becoming its chief international anchor.
Her reporting career has taken her to conflict zones and major international events across the world. She gained widespread recognition for her coverage of the 1990–1991 Gulf War and later reported on the wars in Bosnia and Afghanistan, the genocide in Rwanda and conflicts involving Ukraine and Iran.
Her journalism has frequently focused on the human consequences of war, political repression and international crises. Over the years, she has interviewed political leaders and influential public figures while reporting on developments that have shaped global affairs.
Amanpour’s career has earned her numerous journalism awards and recognition for her contributions to international reporting. She has also become known for emphasizing the importance of evidence-based journalism and holding powerful figures accountable.
Departure Comes During a Major Change at CNN
Amanpour’s announcement comes as CNN enters a new period under different corporate ownership.
Skydance’s acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery was completed in October 2026, bringing CNN and CBS News under the same corporate umbrella. The ownership change has prompted renewed discussion about the future direction of major American news organizations and the importance of editorial independence.
Although the timing has drawn attention, reports have not established that the ownership transition was the reason for Amanpour’s departure. Her announcement describes the decision as one made after months of reflection.
Amanpour Signals Interest in Future Projects
Despite leaving CNN, Amanpour has indicated that she is not necessarily ending her work in journalism.
In her announcement, she expressed interest in pursuing new projects after her departure. She also thanked the journalists, production teams and field crews who worked with her throughout her career.
Her departure will close a long association with CNN, but her continued involvement with The Ex Files podcast means audiences may still hear from her after she leaves the network.
As CNN prepares for the transition, Amanpour’s 43-year career stands as a notable example of long-term service in international journalism, spanning conflicts, political upheavals and major historical events.
Swifteradio.com
