Media giant CNN has endured quite a rocky year, from several unforeseen departures, including Don Lemon, to low ratings. In an effort to turn things around, the network recently announced its new primetime lineup.

The overhaul includes the promotion of two Black journalists and more women-led programming during primetime hours.

First up is former Washington Post reporter Abby Phillip is a familiar face of Sunday morning’s political talk show, Inside Politics. According to CNN’s official press release, Phillip will now have a weekday segment, CNN NewsNight with Abby Phillip, airing at 10 p.m.

Phillip has been with the station since 2017, becoming a standout thanks to her coverage of the 2020 election. A year later, she became the stand-in host for Inside Politics. The 32-year-old’s ability to appeal to younger generations led her to being dubbed “Next-Gen CNN” by the New York Times.

Former CNN reporter Don Lemon once held the coveted 10 p.m. slot with his long-running Don Lemon Tonight segment. After nearly 16 years, Lemon was moved to the morning slot as a host on CNN This Morning.

Earlier this year, Lemon was terminated from CNN allegedly due to strained relationships, misogynistic comments and creating a hostile environment.

laura coates

Get relevant content delivered to you once a week