CNN Cancels Brian Stelter's Show 'Reliable Sources'

Facts

• On Thursday, media company CNN announced that it's ending its longest-running show, Reliable Sources, and, as a result, the show's anchor Brian Stelter will exit the company.
• "Reliable Sources" was established as a forum for media critiques, and executives of the network became more critical of the show in recent years, especially as CNN has faced several controversies.
• According to sources familiar with the matter, the show was canceled to make room for a refreshed Sunday lineup with new programs such as "Who's Talking to Chris Wallace."
• Chris Licht, who took over for former chairman Jeff Zucker, has indicated that he aims to take CNN in a more neutral and less opinionated direction. The canceling of "Reliable Sources" is the first major programming change under Licht.
• Stelter stated that he's grateful for the show and his team's examination of "the media, truth and the stories that shape our world" and that "it was a rare privilege to lead a weekly show focused on the press at a time when it has never been more consequential."
• CNN will air the last episode of Reliable Sources on Sunday, Aug. 21.

Sources: New York Post, LA Times, Washington Post, and NPR Online News.

Narratives

• Left narrative, as provided by Forbes. This is a futile attempt to move the network towards a more bipartisan appeal by CNN bending its knee to the right-winged critics who have continually bashed Stelter and the show. Stelter was the face of CNN and the symbol of a media establishment personality willing to ask questions, no matter how uncomfortable. This is a terrible move.
• Right narrative, as provided by Daily Wire. After years of CNN becoming entangled in extreme partisanship with the far left, Licht is looking to restore the company's image by promoting straightforward news coverage. Reliable Sources ratings have tanked, drawing in the lowest numbers in several years. Licht recognizes that most of the country is fed up with the media's obsession with democratic politics and is attempting to clean house. Removing Brian Stelter is a great start.