Media: Christiane Amanpour will quit CNN in 2027

The reporter spoke of a gentle transition until June next year. She did not give a reason for her departure. She had recently expressed concern about the new owner.

Wellington. The television journalist Christiane Amanpour, who became known worldwide as a crisis reporter, is leaving the US news channel CNN after 43 years. In a video, the 68-year-old announced her departure next June. She initially didn't share anything about her future plans, but she did talk about interesting projects.

"After careful consideration over several months and a few sleepless nights - as you can imagine - I have decided to separate from CNN. My partner of 43 amazing years - longer than many marriages," Amanpour said in the video.

Amanpour spoke of a gentle transition; her long-running daily show will run once a week next year until May, and she will continue to report for CNN until June. It will be on air on the public broadcaster network PBS until December.

"I will remain independent, even beyond this day. This is particularly important because we face unprecedented pressure from all sides - political, economic and also the growing dangers outside," said Amanpour.

She had made a name for herself as a fearless, neutral voice through dangerous missions in wars and crises. In the video, she herself mentioned, among other things, the first Iraq war in 1991, the Bosnian war, as well as reporting from Rwanda, Afghanistan, Iran and Ukraine. Amanpour said she has always supported CNN and its independent journalism.

In May, she expressed concern about the acquisition of CNN's parent company Warner Bros. Discovery by Paramount Skydance, the owner of CBS News. She feared consequences for the news channel and referred to other media that were taken over by Paramount Skydance.

Among other things, Amanpour mentioned “the ideological realignment of CBS.” She hopes that CNN will retain its editorial independence. "Many of us at CNN - including leadership - are very committed to this. I don't need to say anything more."

Channel boss Mark Thompson announced the departure internally on Monday morning, according to CNN's website. Thompson explained that he had discussed the move with Amanpour for several months. “I am very sad to see her go, but I have accepted that it is the right time for her, both personally and professionally.”

CNN is one of the US media that is taking legal action against being excluded from the White House. US President Donald Trump had access blocked for the channel's journalists as well as MS NOW and journalists from the website "Politico". Recently, however, a judge extended judicial protection for these media. A decision on the main issue is still pending.