Rosalind Evans
Mark Thompson has been named the upcoming Chairman and CEO of CNN, taking the helm shortly after Chris Licht’s departure.
Warner Bros. Discovery, the parent firm, announced on Wednesday their choice of Thompson as the next head of the network. His assumption of the role comes months post-Licht’s exit.
Between 2012 and 2020, Thompson acted as The New York Times’ president and CEO, and before that, directed the BBC from 2004 to 2012. He will officially start at CNN on Oct. 9, as revealed in a note to CNN employees.
“Mark is precisely the leader CNN requires at this crucial juncture,” remarked Warner Bros. Discovery’s CEO, David Zaslav, praising staff for their unwavering dedication. “CNN’s true power lies in its team, who consistently uphold unparalleled standards.”
Thompson, recently knighted for his media contributions and a news industry stalwart for 40 years, steps in amidst the heightened pace of the U.S. presidential race.
This change in leadership coincides with challenges in the traditional TV sector due to increasing cord-cutting trends and lagging ratings. As a response to this digital transition, Warner Bros. Discovery is set to integrate CNN into its Max streaming service starting Sept. 27, envisioning it as a round-the-clock live news hub.
In a message to CNN employees, Thompson highlighted the tumultuous times for television journalism. He emphasized his perspective of seeing opportunity amidst threats and pledged commitment to CNN’s strong journalistic brand.
CNN has faced its share of turbulence recently, especially in its top tiers. Jeff Zucker, its former leader, resigned in 2022 after an undisclosed romantic involvement with a senior colleague was brought to light. This was closely followed by the firing of prime-time anchor Chris Cuomo due to controversies surrounding his advisory role to his brother.
After Zucker’s exit, ownership of CNN’s parent company transitioned with the Warner Bros. and Discovery merger. David Zaslav had initially appointed Licht, formerly known for roles at “CBS This Morning” and “Morning Joe” on MSNBC. Yet, Licht’s tenure at CNN was brief and riddled with challenges, including the controversial hosting of a Donald Trump town hall and low viewership for CNN’s newly launched streaming platform, CNN+.
Licht’s departure was further cemented by a critical profile piece in The Atlantic. Post his exit, interim leadership was undertaken by network executives Amy Entelis, Virginia Moseley, Eric Sherling, and David Leavy as the search for a successor continued.
Zaslav’s Note:
I’m thrilled to introduce Mark Thompson as the forthcoming leader for CNN Worldwide, effective October 9. Mark, with his impeccable track record, embodies the leadership CNN requires at this turning point. I express deep gratitude to our staff for their relentless efforts and to our interim leaders, Amy, David, Virginia, and Eric, for their unwavering guidance. I’m eager for what’s to come with Mark on board.
Thompson’s Note:
I’m honoured to be joining the CNN family, a network I’ve admired for years. The current media landscape poses challenges, but with challenge comes opportunity. At CNN, I see potential. My focus will be on collaborative efforts to navigate these times. My gratitude goes to our interim leaders, and I’m excited to embark on this journey with all of you.
In the ever-evolving world of news media, leadership plays a crucial role in steering the ship through turbulent waters. Mark Thompson’s appointment as CNN’s new chief is a testament to the network’s commitment to adapt, evolve, and continue to set the gold standard in journalism. With challenges ahead but a legacy of excellence behind, CNN looks set to embrace the next chapter in its storied history.
