Jim Acosta to leave CNN following removal from network's programming schedule

Jim Acosta is leaving CNN after his show was dropped from the network's schedule.

CNN anchor Jim Acosta is reportedly set to depart from the network following his removal from its programming schedule.

According to the Status newsletter on Monday, Acosta is likely leaving CNN after last week's announcement that his 10 a.m. ET show would be replaced by "The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer and Pamela Brown" as part of the network’s recent programming changes.

The newsletter also revealed that CNN CEO Mark Thompson had suggested moving Acosta from his one-hour 10 a.m. ET slot to a two-hour late-night position starting at midnight, a much less prominent time slot.

One CNN insider informed Fox News Digital that Acosta "struggled with the choice" and might be opting to end his contract earlier than expected.

"It takes courage," the CNN insider said.

Another insider at CNN expressed disappointment about Acosta's departure, stating, "Many viewers like Jim… if there is anyone who could make the overnight go it's him," and added, "It's sad to see him go."

CNN declined to comment on the matter.

Acosta gained widespread recognition during his tenure as CNN's chief White House correspondent due to his contentious exchanges with President Donald Trump and his administration during Trump's first term. After the 2020 election, Acosta transitioned to the role of chief domestic correspondent, hosting a weekend show before eventually securing a weekday program.

Although CNN's former leadership embraced Acosta's confrontations with the Trump administration, the network's current management appears to be steering the programming towards a more neutral tone in preparation for Trump's potential second term.