Jim Acosta, the longtime CNN anchor, officially announced his departure from the network on January 28, 2025, bringing to close nearly two decades of significant contributions to political journalism. Known for his assertive interviewing style and fearless critiques of powerful figures, Acosta left after being offered what many have dubbed the "graveyard shift," moving from his popular 10 a.m. slot to the unsought midnight to 2 a.m. time frame.
Speaking on his final program, Acosta expressed gratitude toward his colleagues and reflected on his nearly 18-year tenure at CNN. "I just wanted to end today’s show by thanking all of the wonderful people who work behind the scenes at this network," he said. He mentioned his decision came after weighing the network's alternative time slot. “I have decided to move on. I am grateful to CNN for the nearly 18 years I have spent here doing the news,” he added.
Acosta's departure coincided with broader changes at CNN, including significant layoffs and shifts within the programming lineup under new chief executive Mark Thompson. The network recently announced it would be cutting six percent of its workforce as part of efforts to adapt to changing media landscapes, which left many viewers questioning the network's direction and commitment to its anchors.
The programming adjustments left Acosta stunned, as he had not been informed of any intentions to alter his show’s status until shortly before the official announcement. "Thompson assured Acosta the move had nothing to do with his ratings or editorial stance, as he had consistently drawn impressive viewership," reported CNN’s spokesperson. Despite Thompson’s reassurances, Acosta decided to decline the offer aimed at moving his show to midnight, leading to speculation about his future.
“One final message – don’t give in to the lies. Don’t give in to the fear,” Acosta concluded on-air, urging viewers to embrace the truth and maintain hope. His career highlight, he noted, was covering former President Barack Obama’s historic trip to Cuba, where he interviewed then-President Raul Castro and addressed significant political issues affecting Cuba. Acosta described this experience as formative, citing his background as the son of a Cuban refugee.
On social media, reactions to Acosta's exit were mixed. Former President Donald Trump, who had history with Acosta since the early days of his administration, ridiculed the anchor’s departure. "Wow, really good news! Jim Acosta, one of the worst and most dishonest reporters in journalistic history... has been relegated by CNN Fake News to the Midnight hour, 'Death Valley,'" Trump posted on Truth Social, echoing sentiments familiar to anyone who has followed Acosta's confrontations with Trump over the years.
Shortly after his departure from CNN, Acosta announced plans to go independent and start his own show on Substack. "After two decades of service, I am leaving CNN to start a new chapter, and I won’t pull any punches this time around, either," he stated. His pivot to Substack reflects the growing trend among journalists seeking to cultivate direct engagement with their audience, bypassing traditional media frameworks.
Acosta’s announcement of his new venture indicates his commitment to continuing his journalistic mission. "The Trump administration and its MAGA allies made it their mission... to run me out of town... but for me, there was always a greater purpose to the work," he shared. This kind of dedication has been emblematic of Acosta’s career, as he has made it his mission to cover pressing issues facing democracy, government accountability, and public discourse.
Following the announcement of his exit, CNN released a statement highlighting Acosta’s history with the network. “Jim has had a long, distinguished nearly 20-year career at CNN, with a track record of standing up to authority, for the First Amendment and for our journalistic freedoms.” The network expressed gratitude for his contributions, emphasizing the tone of respect amid tumultuous transitions.
Acosta’s commitment to earning back his audience via independent means and confronting political narratives head-on will likely define the next chapters of his career. He solidifies his path with his message on Substack, which promises to continue his no-holds-barred approach to journalism. “To President Trump and his allies, you may think you have silenced me. But guess again,” Acosta affirmed, signaling to opponents and supporters alike he plans to remain vocal on pressing issues.
Despite the controversy surrounding his departure, Acosta’s next steps could invigorate his career and continue capturing his audience’s attention—a culmination of wit, conviction, and journalistic rigor. His history serves as not just recounting of facts, but as reminders of the role journalism plays during tumultuous political eras.
With his transition to Substack pending and future plans still being unveiled, many supporters and colleagues await to see how Acosta will channel his experiences and knowledge, continuing the fight for truth and accountability from outside the traditional media gatekeepers.