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The Disappearance of Jim Acosta’s Midnight Show: Insights into CNN’s Programming Changes
It has been over three weeks since CNN unveiled its revamped programming lineup, yet the promised midnight show for former anchor Jim Acosta remains absent. This unexpected move by the network has raised questions about the future of late-night political discourse on CNN.
CNN’s Programming Overhaul
In January, just days before the inauguration of President Donald Trump, CNN’s chief Mark Thompson initiated a comprehensive overhaul of the network’s daytime programming. This included significant changes to its anchor lineup, prominently featuring a shift of Wolf Blitzer and his show “The Situation Room” to a morning slot.
However, this adjustment meant bumping Acosta from his established 10 a.m. ET time slot. Blitzer, along with CNN’s Pamela Brown, would take over the coveted morning position, further complicating Acosta’s standing within the network.
The Midnight Show Proposition
Thompson proposed a midnight show to Acosta, emphasizing an increase in his programming hours from one to two, and the potential for simulcasting on CNN’s international channels. This would allow Acosta to reach a broader global audience, a compelling opportunity for any news anchor.
The planned timeslot from 12-2 a.m. ET posed unique challenges. Notably, it would coincide with CNN’s primetime lineup on the West Coast, airing from 9-11 p.m. PT. The logistics of such a shift would require Acosta to relocate from CNN’s D.C. headquarters to its Los Angeles bureau.
Acosta’s Departure from CNN
Ultimately, Acosta opted to leave CNN. In his final broadcast on January 27, he took notable jabs at then-President Trump, reflecting the contentious relationship they had developed during Trump’s first presidential term.
Transitioning forward to March 3, when CNN officially launched its new programming schedule, audiences found no sign of the midnight show that was previously pitched to Acosta. Instead, re-airings of programs such as “Anderson Cooper 360” and “Erin Burnett Outfront” dominated the two-hour block.
Media Reactions and Speculations
At the time of Acosta’s exit, some liberal critics suggested that CNN intended to diminish his visibility during Trump’s second term. Major publications, including The New York Times and The Los Angeles Times, deemed the midnight slot a “graveyard shift,” indicating a strategic sidelining of Acosta.
Thompson publicly expressed regret over Acosta’s departure at a recent media summit, stating that he had hoped for Acosta to continue with the network.
What Lies Ahead for CNN
Insiders at CNN hinted that Thompson’s offer for a midnight show may not have been made with serious intent. One source, familiar with the programming decisions at the network, voiced skepticism about any ongoing discussions to fill the midnight slot.
This source suggested that Thompson might prefer to avoid re-airings late at night, aligning with his broader vision of establishing 24-hour live programming as CNN transitions into the streaming era.
The Future of CNN’s Midnight Programming
When questioned on whether Thompson is actively seeking a replacement for the midnight slot, the source replied with doubt, stating that it seems unlikely.
Another insider corroborated that the offer directed to Acosta was exclusive, not open to other CNN talent, contributing to the network’s decision to maintain re-airings in the slot.
Uncertain Prospects for Late Night on CNN
The future of CNN’s programming strategy remains uncertain. Although the network appears poised for transitions in live overnight viewing, the lack of Acosta’s midnight show highlights deeper challenges within CNN’s efforts to adapt to changing viewer preferences.
As CNN adapts to the evolving media landscape, all eyes will be on the network’s next moves. The absence of a late-night presence may invite both criticism and curiosity regarding how CNN intends to engage with its audience during the crucial late-night hours.
