by Alex Sherman
January 23, 2025
Warner Bros. Discovery’s CNN announced Thursday it is cutting about 6% of its total staff, or about 210 employees, as it refocuses the business around a global digital audience.
CNN CEO Mark Thompson announced the job losses in a memo to staff Thursday, confirming CNBC’s reporting Wednesday that cuts were coming. In the memo, Thompson noted CNN doesn’t expect total headcount to fall “much” this year because the company plans to invest $70 million in new digital plans.
“I know that whatever the total number of job losses, the impact on the individuals involved can be immense,” Thompson wrote in the memo, obtained by CNBC. “The process of change is essential if we’re to thrive in the future, but I both acknowledge and regret its very real human consequences.”
The layoffs come as CNN is rearranging its linear TV lineup and building out digital subscription products. The cuts will help CNN lower production costs and consolidate teams, according to people familiar with the matter, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss nonpublic thinking. Certain shows that are produced in New York or Washington may move to Atlanta, where production can be done more cheaply, said the people.
For the most part, the job cuts won’t affect CNN’s most recognizable names, who are under contract, said the people. CNN has about 3,500 employees worldwide.
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