Award-winning journalist Christiane Amanpour has announced her departure from CNN after 43 years on the air. Confirming the news on Monday (19 October), the network's long-time anchor said, "After many months of thought and a few sleepless nights, I have decided to separate from CNN, my partner of 43 fantastic years!"
Noting that she "looks forward to interesting new projects down the line," Christiane added that she "will always be rooting for CNN and maintaining its history of independent journalism."
Career Highlights and Farewell Message
Reflecting on her career, Christiane said, "From my very first big exciting assignment covering the First Gulf War, to the horrors of the Bosnian War, Rwanda, Afghanistan, Ukraine and Iran and all the points in between, it's the teams and the camaraderie that counted so much."
She continued, "We together battled to seek the facts, the evidence and the humanity, so that CNN could always broadcast the truth about the world and to the world, without fear nor favour."
Network Chairman's Response
CNN's chairman, Mark Thompson, addressed Christiane's departure in a memo to colleagues. "Christiane has thought carefully about this decision, and she and I have been discussing it for some months," he said. "Like so many CNNers who will hear the news today, I'm very sorry to see her go, but I've come to accept that this is the right time for her, both personally and professionally."
Clarifying that Christiane will step down in 2027, Mark concluded, "In the meantime, on behalf of the entire CNN leadership team, I want to thank Christiane for 43 extraordinary years of remarkable journalism, loyalty and friendship."
Tributes from Colleagues
After sharing a clip from CNN Amanpour, in which she confirmed that the show would end in June, Christiane received comments from friends and fans. Commentator Ana Navarro-Cárdenas replied, "Thank you, dear Christiane. You inspired so many women. Opened doors. Broke down glass ceilings. And did it all with grace and professionalism. You are simply the best - to quote Tina Turner."
Sarah Sidner, co-anchor of CNN News Central, added, "Your breadth and depth of work is unmatched. You have taken us to so many places, shown us what strength, truth, curiosity, honesty, bravery, kindness, confidence and courage [is]. I, for one, am so honoured to have worked beside you. To quote you: 'Be truthful, not neutral.'"
