CNN intends to dismiss hundreds of workers this week as it shifts its focus toward a global digital audience, as per individuals familiar with the situation.
These layoffs occur as CNN adjusts its traditional TV schedule and expands its digital subscription offerings. The job reductions will aid CNN in decreasing production expenses and streamlining teams, according to those who spoke on the condition of confidentiality regarding these internal changes.
Certain programs that are produced in New York or Washington may be relocated to Atlanta, where production costs are lower, said the sources.
Overall, the workforce cuts are unlikely to impact CNN’s most prominent figures, who have contracts, the sources noted. CNN employs approximately 3,500 individuals globally.
During a company-wide meeting earlier this month, CNN CEO Mark Thompson mentioned that the media organization received an investment exceeding “$70 million” from Warner Bros. Discovery to bolster its digital operations. A portion of this funding will be directed toward recruiting personnel in sectors where CNN identifies potential growth opportunities, such as data science and product innovation.
In October, CNN introduced a digital paywall, charging frequent users of the site $3.99 monthly.
NBC News is also contemplating layoffs later this week, according to informed sources. Although the precise number is unclear, the job cuts will likely be fewer than 50, two of the sources indicated.
Representatives for both NBC News and CNN declined to provide comments.
Both news outlets opted to delay their cuts until after the U.S. presidential inauguration. The media landscape is evolving as fewer audiences watch traditional TV, and a greater number consume news via streaming platforms and social media.