Chris Wallace Quits CNN in Shocking Move After Just Three Years: ‘It’s Time to Move On!’

Veteran journalist Chris Wallace, who joined CNN three years ago amid significant fanfare, has announced his departure from the network. Wallace, who was previously a longstanding anchor at Fox News, joined CNN with high expectations, bringing with him a storied career in journalism and a reputation for incisive interviewing. However, his time at CNN has now come to a sudden end, marking a swift departure from what was anticipated to be a long-term position.

The unexpected announcement has sparked questions across the media industry, with insiders speculating about the reasons behind Wallace’s decision to leave so abruptly. In a brief statement, Wallace, 75, expressed gratitude to CNN but hinted at a desire to explore new horizons in his career. “I am proud of the work we accomplished here, but it’s time to move on,” he said. “This decision was not made lightly, but I’m looking forward to what’s next.”

A Short but Eventful Tenure at CNN

Wallace joined CNN in early 2022 to helm his own program on CNN+, the network’s much-publicized streaming service. The move came as a surprise to many in the media landscape, given Wallace’s 18-year tenure at Fox News, where he was known for challenging guests from all sides of the political spectrum. His decision to leave Fox for CNN was seen as a shift in his career trajectory, with CNN+ intended as a high-profile platform for his new show, Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace?

However, CNN+ was short-lived, shutting down less than a month after its launch due to low subscription numbers and corporate restructuring at CNN’s parent company, Warner Bros. Discovery. Wallace’s show was subsequently folded into CNN’s regular programming schedule, a move that some media analysts believe did not fully capitalize on Wallace’s journalistic talents. Despite this setback, Wallace remained at the network, bringing his trademark interviewing style to CNN’s lineup.

Speculation Over Wallace’s Departure

Although Wallace has kept details of his decision private, media insiders have pointed to a turbulent period at CNN marked by management changes, strategic pivots, and declining ratings. Some have speculated that Wallace’s journalistic approach may not have aligned with the evolving vision of the network under its new leadership. “There have been a lot of shifts here recently, and it seems that Wallace may have decided it was best to exit rather than adapt to a changing environment,” one insider remarked.

Additionally, Wallace reportedly clashed with CNN executives over the direction of his show and his role within the network. Sources familiar with the matter suggest that Wallace’s journalistic integrity sometimes put him at odds with CNN’s shifting priorities, which may have played a part in his decision to step away.

“It’s Time to Move On”

While Wallace has not disclosed his next steps, the veteran journalist hinted at exploring other opportunities outside of CNN. “I still have a passion for journalism and storytelling,” Wallace said. “I’m excited to see where that will take me next.”

Industry watchers are already speculating about potential moves for Wallace, who has long been respected for his unbiased and tenacious interviewing style. Some predict he may venture into independent media or join a news outlet with a focus on balanced reporting, an area where he has excelled throughout his career.

As Wallace bids farewell to CNN, questions linger over what his departure means for the network and its broader direction.