CNN is facing major shake-ups as executives push to cut costs amid falling ratings and revenue, putting one of its biggest stars, Anderson Cooper, at risk. After nearly 24 years with the network, Cooper’s hefty \$18 million salary is increasingly hard to justify, sources say. His departure could be part of a broader effort led by Warner Bros. CFO Gunnar Wiedenfels to slash expenses, especially in areas like high-profile talent pay, overseas bureaus, and costly special events.
Veteran journalist Dylan Byers revealed that Cooper, once a leading figure under former CNN boss Jeff Zucker, has seen his influence wane as CEO Mark Thompson aggressively hunts for savings. While other high-profile anchors have either left or faced pay cuts, Erin Burnett, earning a comparatively modest \$3 million, is believed safe for now. Byers suggests CNN will keep some star talent temporarily during contract transitions.
Rumors of Cooper’s exit grew after he signed with top agency CAA, indicating he might leave on his own terms. Staffers describe a “grim” atmosphere at CNN’s New York and Atlanta offices, with growing distrust in leadership and fears the network will resemble the smaller-budget HLN.
Wiedenfels is pushing to rebrand CNN as a cable division focused more on reality programming alongside HGTV and TNT. Internally, employees derisively call this new structure “Sh\*t Co.” As cuts deepen, tensions rise, with insiders blaming Warner Bros. CEO David Zaslav for recent struggles.
Meanwhile, gossip about anchor Kaitlan Collins’ pricey Nantucket home purchase amid layoffs has stirred resentment, highlighting growing divides at the embattled network.
