Amanpour Says She’ll Leave CNN Next Year, Ending 43-Year Run

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, October 20, 2026

Christiane Amanpour announced she will leave CNN next year after a 43-year career, ending her roles on both CNN International and PBS programs. Her departure marks the end of a key era in international journalism at CNN as the network adapts to changing media dynamics and prepares for new leadership in global coverage.

Christiane Amanpour, a distinguished international correspondent and chief international anchor for CNN, announced on Monday that she plans to leave the network next year, ending a 43-year tenure. Amanpour, 68, has been a prominent figure at CNN since joining in 1983, gaining widespread recognition for her frontline reporting during the 1990 Persian Gulf War and subsequent coverage from various conflict zones including Bosnia, Rwanda, and Afghanistan.

Based in London, Amanpour currently hosts the weekly program "Amanpour" on CNN International, which is scheduled to be reduced to a single weekly broadcast starting in January before concluding entirely in June. Her PBS show, "Amanpour & Co.," will also come to an end.

In a statement, Amanpour said her decision followed “many months of thought and a few sleepless nights.” She indicated that she intends to explore new projects in the future but did not specify further details.

CNN chief executive Mark Thompson confirmed that discussions about Amanpour’s future had been ongoing for several months. He communicated the decision to CNN’s newsroom staff but did not elaborate on the network’s plans for replacing her role.

Amanpour’s departure marks the conclusion of a significant chapter for CNN’s international news coverage, where her reporting has established her as one of the most respected voices on global affairs. The decision comes amid ongoing changes in the media landscape, with news organizations adjusting their programming and talent to evolving viewer habits and market conditions.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.