CNN is in the process of shuffling evening programing after network ratings hit a 20-year primetime low in May. Landing on the chopping block at the end of the month is ‘John King USA’ in the 6:00 p.m. slot.
The show debuted in March 2010, shortening ‘The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer’ to two hours.
The 48-year-old newsman will become the network’s national campaign correspondent reporting across CNN shows and platforms. In the short term Wolf Blitzer’s show will again be expanded to fill the vacant time slot.
John King hit Twitter with an upbeat message: “Yes, the show ends June 29. Obviously wishing we performed better at 6pE. Daily anchoring ends tad sooner than planned, but I get to do what I love: coming soon to a battleground state near you! All diner recommendations welcome. CU.”
In a memo to CNN staffers, president Ken Jautz indicated the new role for King “will better tap his skills and experience, especially among critical voting blocs.”
Photo: Twitter-John King