CNN has faced a significant decline in its primetime viewership, with recent data showing its ratings falling below those of the Food Network. During a critical week in December, CNN’s primetime lineup, including flagship programs such as Anderson Cooper 360 and The Source with Kaitlan Collins, averaged just 367,000 total viewers during the 8 to 11 p.m. slot. This marks a sharp contrast to its competitors, with Fox News dominating the same time frame.
The network’s performance in the coveted 25-54 age demographic has been even more concerning, ranking far behind other cable networks. While cable news competitors like MSNBC have also seen declines in their audience, CNN’s drop has placed it behind not just traditional rivals but also entertainment-focused networks like TNT, Freeform, and the Food Network.
The steep drop in ratings has reportedly created tension within CNN, with concerns about potential staff layoffs and further programming cuts. The network, which once boasted millions of nightly viewers during peak news cycles, has seen its average audience size plummet over the past decade.
In response to these challenges, CNN has initiated programming adjustments and leadership changes to try to revitalize its content and rebuild trust with its audience. However, the competition from traditional cable rivals and newer digital platforms remains intense, leaving the network in a precarious position as it works to navigate its way back to relevance.