Piers Morgan's CNN contract expires six months after talkshow failure
Piers Morgan on Tuesday announced that his CNN contract had expired after he turned down a 40 part-interview series offered to him by the broadcaster's president, Jeff Zucker.
Piers Morgan is now officially looking for work
Speaking on Twitter, Morgan informed his followers that his time at the American news corporation had only just concluded despite his talkshow, which replaced Larry King's primetime show, being canceled over half a year ago.
The brash British presenter remained on the payroll as CNN tried to negotiate a future project, however, with a single tweet the former tabloid editor announced his departure from the network.
BREAKING NEWS: I am no longer a @CNN employee.
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) September 2, 2014
In further tweets, Morgan added: “I was offered a new two-year deal by the CNN boss Jeff Zucker to host 40 big interview 'specials' but after considerable thought, I decided not to accept it - and to try pastures new.
"I had a fantastic time in my four years at CNN and have huge respect for Jeff and all the people who work there. Great company, great network."
To many on the social network, the announcement was Morgan's way of telling potential employers he is ready for a new position.
The controversial presenter's talk show, Piers Morgan Live, took a ratings dive in the US - partly because of his stance on gun control, which saw him clash with radio host, Alex Jones, in a timeless interview.
If I'm to be remembered for anything @CNN - I'd like it to be this: https://t.co/HptrYz9swr — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) September 2, 2014
However, Morgan warned the National Rifle Association, that he often clashed with during his tenure, to watch their backs.
I wouldn't crack the champagne open too quickly though, @NRA - I haven't finished with you lot yet. — Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) September 2, 2014
Morgan's stance against semi-automatic weapons caused pro-gun Americans to draft a petition to the White House, requesting US authorities to deport the presenter in 2013 - which resulted in president Obama jestfully pardoning the reporter.
In response to Morgan's departure from the broadcaster, Match of the Day host Gary Lineker took a swipe at the former tabloid editor.
See you've finally parted company with CNN, @piersmorgan . We'll really miss you.....being over there! — Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) September 2, 2014
Earlier this year, Piers Morgan was voted the UK's most influential journalist on Twitter at the Press Gazette's social media awards.