Christiane Amanpour to Exit CNN After 43 Years

Veteran international journalist Christiane Amanpour will leave CNN in June 2027, ending a 43-year career with the global news network.

Amanpour, 68, announced her decision in a statement on Monday, describing CNN as her partner for 43 “fantastic years” and expressing gratitude to colleagues who worked with her throughout her career.

“After many months of thought and a few sleepless nights, I have decided to separate from CNN, my partner of 43 fantastic years!” she said.

The award-winning journalist, who serves as CNN’s chief international anchor, said she looked forward to exploring new projects while continuing to support the network’s commitment to independent journalism.

“Remember: always be truthful, not neutral,” she added.

Amanpour has hosted her flagship international interview programme, Amanpour, since 2009, interviewing influential political leaders and other prominent figures on global affairs.

She reduced her hosting schedule in January 2025 and is expected to move to a weekly programme in January 2027. The show is scheduled to end in May 2027, while she will continue reporting and travelling for CNN until June.

CNN Chairman Mark Thompson announced her departure in a memo to staff, saying he had discussed the decision with her for several months.

Describing Amanpour as “one of the most trusted and beloved journalists anywhere,” Thompson said the network would celebrate her contributions before her departure next year.

He also thanked her for 43 years of journalism, loyalty and friendship, acknowledging her longstanding service to the organisation.

Reflecting on her career, Amanpour highlighted major international conflicts she covered, including the First Gulf War, the Bosnian War, the Rwandan genocide, the wars in Afghanistan and Ukraine, and developments in Iran.

She credited the teams and field crews who worked alongside her, saying their collective efforts were central to pursuing facts, evidence and humanity in their reporting.

Amanpour’s departure from CNN comes amid other changes to her broadcasting commitments. Her PBS programme, Amanpour & Company, is scheduled to end in December 2026.

However, she will continue producing her podcast, The Ex Files, with her former husband, Jamie Rubin, through Global.

Her exit marks the end of a long association with CNN, during which she became internationally recognised for her reporting from conflict zones and coverage of major political and humanitarian crises.