Matt Gaetz, a prominent Republican congressman, has secured a new primetime hosting role on a conservative television network. This move marks Gaetz's entry into media, expanding his influence beyond politics.
CNN has appointed Kaitlan Collins as its chief White House correspondent while she continues to anchor her primetime show, "The Source." This move highlights the evolving role of TV-news anchors, who are now expected to engage more directly with news events and audiences. Collins, known for her tenacity and political journalism, has quickly risen at CNN since joining in 2017, becoming a prominent figure alongside other notable anchors. Her new dual role will involve covering the Trump administration and maintaining her primetime presence.
Dr. Phil McGraw is launching Merit Street Media, a new cable TV network, with his show "Dr. Phil Primetime" as the anchor. The network, based in Dallas-Fort Worth, will offer multiple hours of original programming, including live news broadcasts. McGraw aims to continue offering advice and conducting interviews with headline makers, while also incorporating his conservative views on family values, immigration, and education curriculum. Veteran executive Joel Cheatwood will serve as Chief Operating Officer for Merit Street Media.
CNN CEO Chris Licht has confirmed that Gayle King and Charles Barkley will co-host a new weekly primetime show called King Charles, set to premiere this fall. The hour-long program will cover current issues like gun violence, as well as lighter fare such as food and pop culture. The show will not have a political bent and will promote "a good conversation without tearing other people down." Both King and Barkley will continue in their other roles while hosting the show.
CBS anchor Gayle King and former NBA player Charles Barkley will co-host a weekly primetime show on CNN called "King Charles" starting this fall. The hosts have stated that the show will not be political. King will continue her responsibilities at CBS while hosting the CNN show.
CNN is reportedly in talks with Gayle King and Charles Barkley to host a weekly primetime show for the network, as part of its efforts to revitalize its nighttime lineup. The 9 PM ET primetime hour has lacked a permanent host since Chris Cuomo was fired in December 2021. The network has talked to two dozen or so names about filling at least one night a week in that time slot, with plans to fill remaining nights with special events. CNN's primetime ratings have declined in February 2022, with an average of 587,000 viewers, down 24% from a year earlier.