CNN Faces Historic Ratings Slump and Layoff Woes Amid Media Industry Upheaval
Once a powerhouse in cable news, CNN is now grappling with its lowest viewership in 24 years, reflecting a historic decline as the network struggles to adapt to an evolving media landscape dominated by streaming platforms and fragmented audiences. The slump in ratings has sparked discussions of mass layoffs and sweeping changes under the leadership of CEO Mark Thompson.
A Sobering Milestone in Viewership
On November 11, CNN recorded a significant drop in its key demographic of viewers aged 25-54, attracting just 61,000—a low not seen since June 27, 2000, during the Clinton administration. According to Fox News, CNN’s daytime programming also hit a decade-long low, averaging just 60,000 viewers in the same demographic between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET. This marked the network’s worst non-holiday weekday performance since 2014.
The post-election period has proven especially challenging. Since Election Day, CNN has averaged only 403,000 total viewers during the day, far behind Fox News’s commanding 2.2 million. In the coveted primetime slot (8-11 p.m. ET), CNN’s 483,000 viewers pale in comparison to Fox News’s robust 3.4 million. Among the key 25-54 demographic, CNN continues to lag, with 86,000 average total day viewers and 112,000 in primetime—a stark contrast to Fox News’s 321,000 and 496,000, respectively.
Even during the high-stakes election night coverage, CNN struggled to capture audiences, falling behind Fox News, MSNBC, ABC, and NBC.
Layoffs Loom as CNN Faces Cost-Cutting Pressure
As ratings plummet, CNN is reportedly preparing for significant layoffs to address financial strain and adapt to a “digital-first” strategy under CEO Mark Thompson’s leadership. Sources indicate that the layoffs could affect hundreds of employees across various departments.
“CNN will implement another round of layoffs that will impact hundreds of employees across the organization, including those whose TV production talents won’t necessarily be needed in the new digital-first landscape,” reported Puck News.
Journalists and on-air talent will likely face increased workloads, as redundancies are cut and teams are streamlined. Some divisions may be eliminated entirely. While layoffs loom, CNN also plans to create new roles aligned with Thompson’s vision for a digital-first future. However, insiders describe a workplace atmosphere fraught with anxiety and uncertainty.
High Salaries Amid Ratings Decline
As CNN’s ratings struggle, attention has turned to the salaries of its high-profile anchors. Anderson Cooper reportedly earns $20 million annually, while Erin Burnett and Kaitlan Collins earn $3 million and $6 million, respectively. Jake Tapper and Wolf Blitzer, earning $3 million and $7 million, reportedly had their requests for raises denied.
Meanwhile, veteran journalist Chris Wallace announced his departure from CNN on Monday, leaving after years with the network and a reported $8.5 million salary.
A Crossroads for CNN
CNN’s predicament reflects broader challenges in the news industry. With audiences increasingly turning to streaming platforms and social media for news, traditional cable networks face the daunting task of redefining themselves.
Mark Thompson’s upcoming transformation plan could reshape CNN’s operations and programming approach, aiming to restore its competitive edge. However, with sweeping layoffs and ratings at historic lows, the road ahead remains uncertain.
As CNN navigates these turbulent waters, one thing is clear: the once-dominant network must adapt swiftly or risk losing relevance in a rapidly changing media world.