Chris Wallace announced on Monday that he is departing from CNN, where he has navigated a unique role over the past few years. He plans to leave at the completion of his three-year contract, with intentions to pursue opportunities in podcasting or streaming platforms, which he believes are where the current market interest lies.
Wallace, 77, represents a longstanding figure in mainstream media, having previously hosted “Fox News Sunday” at Fox News, where he gained recognition for his balanced approach. His extensive career also includes time spent at ABC, NBC, and local news in Chicago, as well as starting out as a newspaper reporter.
At CNN, he hosted “Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace?” and played a significant role in the network’s election coverage. However, his tenure at CNN was marked by shifts, particularly with the abrupt cancellation of CNN+, the network’s ambitious yet ultimately unsuccessful online-only service. While this venture aimed to innovate news delivery, it concluded shortly after its launch.
Reports suggest that Wallace’s departure may partly stem from dissatisfaction over a potential reduction in his salary, while other anchors’ pay remained stable. His exit illustrates a broader trend in media, as trust and ratings for traditional outlets have waned. For instance, MSNBC captured more viewers than CNN on election night, prompting discussions about the changing landscape of media consumption.
The dialogue surrounding Wallace’s career transition raises questions about the future of media, especially as alternative formats like podcasts gain popularity. With figures like Joe Rogan and Charlamagne tha God reshaping conversations and reaching vast audiences, Wallace’s next moves could signal a significant evolution in his approach, even if it seems outside his traditional style.
Overall, Wallace’s departure and intention to explore new media avenues emphasize the necessity for legacy media to adapt and rethink their strategies. While traditional formats are not disappearing, the landscape is rapidly changing, and Wallace’s journey could lead to refreshing ideas and innovations in how news is presented and consumed. It will be intriguing to observe how this evolution unfolds in the coming months.