Acosta leaves amid network disputes over time slot change, prompting celebratory comments from former President Trump.
Washington DC [US], January 29: Jim Acosta, the veteran CNN anchor known for his fiery exchanges with the Trump administration, announced his departure from the network on Tuesday after nearly two decades. The move comes after a reported dispute with CNN over the decision to move his show to the midnight slot, often regarded as a low-visibility time frame for cable news.
Trump Reacts with Sharp Criticism
Former President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to celebrate Acosta’s departure, calling him “one of the worst and most dishonest reporters in journalistic history.”
“Wow, really good news! Jim Acosta, one of the worst and most dishonest reporters in journalistic history, a major sleazebag, has been relegated by CNN Fake News to the Midnight hour, ‘Death Valley,’ because of extraordinarily bad ratings (and no talent!). Word is that he wants to quit, and that would be even better. Jim is a major loser who will fail no matter where he ends up. Good luck Jim,” Trump wrote in his post.
Acosta’s Farewell Announcement
Acosta announced his departure at the conclusion of his 10 a.m. show, marking the end of an era at CNN. According to The New York Times, the anchor stepped down following disputes over the network’s decision to shift his program to a less desirable midnight slot.
Veteran anchor Wolf Blitzer and Pamela Brown will now co-anchor in Acosta’s former time slot. Despite being ranked third for total viewers behind MSNBC and Fox News, Acosta’s show performed relatively better in the key advertising demographic compared to MSNBC.
CNN’s Statement on Acosta’s Departure
CNN acknowledged Acosta’s contributions in a statement, praising his dedication to journalistic principles.
“Jim has had a long, distinguished nearly 20-year career at CNN, with a track record of standing up to authority, for the First Amendment, and for our journalistic freedoms,” CNN said.
A Controversial Legacy
Acosta, known for his confrontational reporting style, became a household name during the Trump presidency, particularly for his pointed questions and fiery exchanges with White House officials. His departure marks the end of a notable chapter for CNN, which has seen significant changes in its anchor lineup in recent years.
Acosta’s next move remains uncertain, but his tenure at CNN has solidified his reputation as a journalist unafraid to challenge authority, a legacy that will continue to shape his career beyond the network.
O