CNN announces about 200 layoffs as it attempts to modernize business

Warner Bros. Discovery’s CNN announced Thursday it is cutting about 6% of its total staff, or about 210 employees, as it refocuses the business around a global digital audience.

CNN CEO Mark Thompson announced the job losses in a memo to staff Thursday, confirming CNBC’s reporting Wednesday that cuts were coming. In the memo, Thompson noted CNN doesn’t expect total headcount to fall “much” this year because the company plans to invest $70 million in new digital plans.

“I know that whatever the total number of job losses, the impact on the individuals involved can be immense,” Thompson wrote in the memo, obtained by CNBC. “The process of change is essential if we’re to thrive in the future, but I both acknowledge and regret its very real human consequences.”

The layoffs come as CNN is rearranging its linear TV lineup and building out digital subscription products. The cuts will help CNN lower production costs and consolidate teams, according to people familiar with the matter, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss nonpublic thinking. Certain shows that are produced in New York or Washington may move to Atlanta, where production can be done more cheaply, said the people.

For the most part, the job cuts won’t affect CNN’s most recognizable names, who are under contract, said the people. CNN has about 3,500 employees worldwide.

A CNN spokesperson declined to comment beyond Thompson’s statement.

CNN announced several new initiatives in the memo. The company is planning a new way for digital subscribers to stream CNN outside of CNN Max, which exists within Warner Bros. Discovery’s broader Max streaming service. CNN plans to announce content details “in the coming months,” Thompson said in the note to stasff. CNN planned to launch its own streaming service, CNN+, in 2022, but the service was shut down almost immediately by Chris Licht, who had been appointed to take over as CEO.

In October, CNN launched a digital paywall, charging heavier users of the site $3.99 per month. The news organization’s goal is to reach $1 billion in revenue by 2030.

CNN plans to hire at least 100 new jobs in the coming months to build out a broader digital presence, investing in product and tech as well as “new high-quality journalism and storytelling.” Part of that investment will be in a “lifestyle-oriented digital product” that CNN is developing.

CNN is also revamping its linear TV schedule in the U.S. and internationally.