A major restructuring at CNN signals sweeping changes as the network prepares for Donald Trump's return to the White House.

According to Daily Mail, CNN has initiated widespread staff layoffs affecting hundreds of employees while planning significant changes to its TV lineup and production operations.

The network's transformation includes relocating shows from New York and Washington to Atlanta, where production costs are lower, and reassigning prominent anchor Jim Acosta from his current 10 AM slot to a midnight time slot. These changes follow approximately 100 job cuts implemented during the summer months, with more reductions anticipated in the coming days.

Network Leadership Takes Bold Steps Amid Changing Media Landscape

New CNN CEO Mark Thompson has emphasized that the current restructuring aims to improve the network rather than simply reduce costs. During a recent meeting, Thompson articulated his vision for the network's coverage of the incoming president, calling for "dispassionate, open-minded coverage." His approach represents a significant shift in the network's editorial direction.

Employees have described the atmosphere at CNN as increasingly tense, with "anxious" and "nauseous" feelings pervading as closed-door meetings continue. The uncertainty extends beyond CNN, as both NBC News and ABC News face similar pressures to adapt their business models.

Inside sources reveal that production staff will bear the brunt of the layoffs, though some on-air talent may also be affected. The restructuring plan emphasizes streamlining operations and eliminating redundant assignments across various divisions.

High Profile Talent Faces Uncertain Future At Network

CNN's highest-paid stars face varying degrees of job security amid the restructuring. Anderson Cooper, who earns $20 million annually, along with Erin Burnett ($6 million) and Kaitlan Collins ($3 million), represent significant investments for the network.

President Trump commented on the situation through his Truth Social platform. His statement reflected ongoing criticism of mainstream media coverage:

MSDNC is even worse than CNN. They shouldn't even have a right to broadcast - Only in America!

The network's transformation comes at a particularly challenging time, as it recently faced a $5 million defamation lawsuit regarding coverage of an Afghanistan war veteran.

Ratings Decline Drives Strategic Shift In Programming

CNN's viewership has experienced a dramatic decline since its peak during the 2016 election coverage. Current primetime viewership hovers around 800,000 viewers, a stark contrast to the 13.3 million viewers it commanded in 2016 under Jeff Zucker's leadership.

Fox News has maintained its dominant position in cable news ratings, with hosts like Laura Ingraham, Jesse Watters, Sean Hannity, and Greg Gutfeld averaging 2.8 million viewers in their respective time slots. The disparity became particularly evident during recent election coverage.

Recent Nielsen statistics highlighted CNN's unprecedented loss to MSNBC in election night coverage, drawing only 5.1 million viewers compared to MSNBC's 6 million and Fox News' 10.3 million viewers.

Digital First Strategy Emerges As Network Priority

Thompson's vision for CNN's future places significant emphasis on digital platforms and subscriber growth. The restructuring plan includes creating new positions specifically focused on digital content delivery and engagement.

Despite the extensive layoffs, some sources suggest the possibility of a net gain in employees as the network pivots toward digital operations. This transformation reflects broader industry trends as traditional media outlets adapt to changing consumption patterns.

Sources familiar with the matter indicated that while hundreds may lose their positions, the network plans to invest in new roles supporting Thompson's digital-first strategy.

Restructuring Impact Reaches Beyond Network Walls

A veteran CNN producer reportedly learned of their dismissal on Wednesday, with more staff notifications expected Thursday. The layoffs extend beyond CNN, affecting other major networks as the industry grapples with evolving viewer preferences and business models.

NBC News plans to release "a few dozen" workers on Thursday, while ABC News employees remain concerned about potential cuts following the network's recent settlement with Trump. Industry insiders describe all three networks as "highly profitable" despite growing challenges to their traditional business models.

Status media outlet suggests additional cuts may continue in the coming years as networks adjust to changing market conditions and viewership patterns.