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Christiane Amanpour to Depart CNN in 2026 After 43 Years

other · 2026-10-19

Christiane Amanpour, CNN's chief international anchor, has announced her decision to depart from the network next year, concluding a remarkable 43-year career. The 68-year-old journalist revealed that her choice followed extensive contemplation and sleepless nights. She began her journey at CNN in 1983 as an assistant and evolved into a prominent figure covering numerous global conflicts. Since 2009, Amanpour has been at the helm of a nightly interview show on CNN International. In a memo issued on Monday, CNN chairman Mark Thompson expressed his acknowledgment of their discussions regarding her departure, noting it as a timely transition.

Key facts

  • Christiane Amanpour will leave CNN next year after 43 years at the network
  • She is 68 years old and serves as CNN's chief international anchor
  • Amanpour joined CNN in 1983 as an assistant on the international news desk
  • She has presented a nightly interview program on CNN International since 2009
  • CNN chairman Mark Thompson announced the departure in a staff memo on Monday
  • Thompson said he and Amanpour had discussed the decision for some months
  • Amanpour cited assignments including the First Gulf War, Bosnia, Rwanda, Afghanistan, Ukraine and Iran
  • She said she looks forward to new projects and will always root for CNN

Entities

Artists

  • Christiane Amanpour
  • Mark Thompson

Institutions

  • CNN
  • CNN International

Locations

  • Mogadishu
  • Somalia
  • Bosnia
  • Rwanda
  • Afghanistan
  • Ukraine
  • Iran

Sources