On Thursday, Network CNN announced plans to scrap its morning show, “New Day,” in favor of a new segment with hosts Don Lemon, Poppy Harlow and Kaitlan Collins.
The network announced plans to scrap “New Day,” hosted by Brianna Keilar and John Berman. Unlike other former CNN hosts and contributors, both Keilar and Berman are expected to remain with the network in different roles. They will continue anchoring “New Day” until the new program launches, according to CNN.
CNN CEO Chris Licht has been gunning to make the liberal-leaning news outlet legitimately bipartisan reporting, and seems to be fulfilling his promise to viewers, after uber-liberal host Brian Stelter was removed from the network, and his Sunday “Reliable Sources” show was canceled.
Licht touted the new lineup in a statement. “There is no stronger combination of talent than Don, Poppy and Kaitlan to deliver on our promise of a game-changing morning news program,” he said. Collins had previously worked for the Daily Caller as a reporter.
“They are each uniquely intelligent, reliable and compelling; together they have a rare and palpable chemistry,” Licht continued. “Combined with CNN’s resources and global newsgathering capabilities, we will offer a smart, bold and refreshing way to start the day.”
Each of the new hosts took a moment to offer a statement on their excitement for the new show.
“The last eight years have been an incredible ride. I’ve had the opportunity to work with one of the best show teams in the business, but it’s time to shake things up. I am so appreciative of the Don Lemon Tonight team, my wonderful, loyal viewers and everyone who has believed in me,” said Lemon, who will no longer host “Don Lemon Tonight” once he assumes his new morning role.
“I was honestly floored when Chris Licht asked me to do this and I’m honored by his belief in me. It’s going to be a thrill to take on this challenge with Poppy and Kaitlan,” he continued. “I’ll get to work with two of my dearest friends. Set your alarms folks, because we’re going to have a lot of fun.”
“What a gift to be able to sit beside Don and Kaitlan each morning. Don has been one of my closest friends for more than a decade — there for every milestone along the way. I’m consistently in awe of Kaitlan’s reporting and the remarkable woman she is,” said Harlow. “I can’t wait to laugh with them and learn from them each morning. I am grateful to Chris and my CNN family who have been so supportive of me.”
“I am thrilled to start this new adventure at CNN and work alongside Don and Poppy, two colleagues I deeply admire,” said Collins. “To go from sharing my reporting on their shows to sitting at the desk alongside them is an incredible opportunity and I’m deeply humbled by it. I’m so grateful to Chris and CNN for building something truly special. I can’t wait to wake with our viewers and do the news every day. So pour a cup of coffee and join us!”
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