Brian Stelter Returns to CNN After Dramatic Ousting
In a surprising turn of events, former CNN host Brian Stelter announced his return to the network, less than two years after his highly publicized dismissal.
Stelter, who was let go in 2022 during a period of restructuring at CNN, is set to rejoin the media giant in a newly created role as Chief Media Analyst.
Stelter broke the news to readers of the “Reliable Sources” newsletter on Tuesday, stating, “I am thrilled to share that I am returning as the lead author of CNN’s Reliable Sources newsletter, the digest I founded in 2015.”
He added that his new position would involve on-air appearances and the development of digital content, in addition to helming the newsletter.
The media veteran’s comeback is slated to begin on September 9, marking a significant shift in CNN’s editorial direction.
Stelter emphasized that his return would not be a mere continuation of his previous tenure, asserting, “I am different.”
He elaborated on the changes he’s undergone since leaving CNN, including a move from Manhattan to a horse farm near one of Donald Trump’s golf clubs, which he claims has given him a fresh perspective on news consumption.
“After 20+ years as a news junkie, I changed my habits and tuned out for a bit,” Stelter explained. “I experienced the news more like an everyday consumer, and in doing so, I learned a whole lot about the attention economy and the information ecosystem.”
Fox News reported that while Stelter’s newsletter is being revived, there are no indications that his former TV program, also titled “Reliable Sources,” will be reinstated.
The show was a Sunday staple that focused on media analysis and criticism.
The outlet added that Stelter’s 2022 departure came under the leadership of then-CEO Chris Licht, who was tasked with repositioning CNN and addressing concerns about the network’s perceived partisan leanings.
Licht’s tenure, however, was short-lived, as he too was ousted in June 2023 amid internal turmoil and a failed attempt to win over CNN’s staff.
The revolving door at CNN’s executive level seems to have paved the way for Stelter’s return, Fox noted.
Current CEO Mark Thompson expressed enthusiasm about the rehiring to Fox, stating, “Brian is one of the best global experts in media commentary, and as the founder of the Reliable Sources newsletter, he is the perfect choice to lead Reliable Sources into its next chapter.”
During his previous nine-year stint at CNN, Stelter was known for his critique of conservative media and his coverage of the Trump administration.
His approach often drew criticism from conservative circles, with some labeling him the media’s “janitor” for his perceived defense of liberal media outlets.
Stelter’s past coverage included extensive reporting on the Russiagate controversy, praise for Andrew Cuomo’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic and skepticism towards the Hunter Biden laptop story, which he once referred to as a “manufactured scandal.”
As Stelter prepares to re-enter the CNN fold, questions remain about how his role will evolve in the current media landscape.
With the 2024 election cycle approaching, all eyes will be on how CNN’s latest addition navigates the complex terrain of media analysis and political coverage.
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