London, England — Christiane Amanpour, CNN’s esteemed chief international anchor, has announced her intention to part ways with the network where she began her career as a desk assistant more than four decades ago. In a memo sent to colleagues on October 19, Amanpour, 68, expressed gratitude for her time at CNN, stating, “After many months of thought and a few sleepless nights, I have decided to separate from CNN, my partner of 43 fantastic years.”
Amanpour, who currently operates from CNN’s London bureau, will transition out of her roles gradually. Her daily program on CNN International and “Amanpour & Company,” which airs on PBS, will conclude at the end of 2026. Following that, the CNN International show will shift to a weekly format starting January 2027, continuing until May 2027, with her official departure scheduled for June 2027. Despite stepping away from her primary duties, Amanpour plans to maintain her global reporting and continue producing her podcast, “The Ex Files,” which she co-hosts with her former husband, Jamie Rubin.
Throughout her distinguished career, Amanpour has been at the forefront of international reporting, covering significant global events such as the Gulf War, the Bosnian conflict, and the recent crisis in Gaza. Her journey began in 1983 when she joined CNN just three years after its inception, starting as an entry-level news desk assistant in Atlanta. Over the years, she proved critics wrong and emerged as one of the most trusted voices in journalism.
Mark Thompson, CNN’s chairman and editor-in-chief, acknowledged Amanpour’s contributions in a memo to staff, reflecting on her remarkable career and the journey that has marked her tenure at the network. He recognized her unwavering commitment to truth-telling and highlighted her ability to adapt to challenges, underscoring the impact she has had on the field of journalism.
Amanpour has made a name for herself not only through her coverage of wars and political upheaval but also through high-profile interviews with global leaders, including Muammar Gaddafi and prominent figures like Bill Clinton and Tony Blair. Her ability to navigate complex political landscapes has earned her numerous accolades, including multiple Emmy and Peabody awards.
Her departure arrives shortly after Paramount Skydance’s acquisition of CNN’s parent company, Warner Bros. Discovery, which has prompted speculation regarding the future direction of CNN. Although her announcement comes amid these corporate changes, it notably does not address the new ownership, leaving colleagues internally surprised by the timing of her decision.
Amanpour’s contributions have been characterized by her insistence on honesty in journalism. In her farewell note, she encouraged her colleagues to “always be truthful, not neutral,” echoing a commitment to authenticity that has defined her career. As she prepares to leave CNN, her legacy of fearless reporting and dedication to uncovering the truth continues to resonate within the organization and the broader media landscape.