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CNN host Chris Wallace is leaving the cable news giant when his contract expires after a three-year run with the organization.
Wallace joined CNN in 2022 after almost 20 years working at Fox News. However, he told The Daily Beast his interest now is focused on a digital footprint with podcasting and digital video on platforms like YouTube and Rumble.
“This is the first time in 55 years I‘ve been between jobs,” he said. “I am actually excited and liberated by that.”
CNN CEO Mark Thompson wished the outgoing anchor well in his future endeavors in a statement released after the news became public.
“Chris Wallace is one of the most respected political journalists in the news business with a unique track record across radio, print, broadcast television, cable television, and streaming,” said Thompson. “We want to thank him for the dedication and wisdom he’s brought to all his work at CNN and to wish him the very best for the future.”
The Chris Wallace Show — the weekend offering from the anchor — will conclude next month, while Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace? will end after Friday’s final episode.
The move by Wallace to leave cable news for digital endeavors follows a similar path blazed by others in recent months. Mehdi Hasan has found success with his Zeteo News product since departing MSNBC. Additionally, CNN reporter Oliver Darcy launched his own digital media startup after leaving CNN. Tucker Carlson and Don Lemon have each also launched digital video shows to differing levels of success since their cable news exits.
Wallace was reportedly offered a new contract by CNN to extend his current down. However, reports indicate it was “for significantly less” than the reported $8.5 million contract he signed with the network under previous leadership.
