CNN to axe Piers Morgan as ratings plunge to new lows
CNN is to pull the plug on its flagship current affairs magazine Piers Morgan Tonight amidst declining ratings which have seen it slump in the slipstream of rivals Fox News and MSNBC.
Morgan has struggled to connect with American viewers since taking over the hot seat from Larry King, making waves with his tough stance on gun control but alienating many of his core audience in the process.
In light of this Morgan and CNN president Jeffrey Zucker are said to have agreed to cut their losses with Morgan saying goodnight for the last time next month.
Speaking to the New York Times Morgan said: “It’s been a painful period and lately we have taken a bath in the ratings,” he said, adding that although there had been times when the show connected in terms of audience, slow news days were problematic.
“Look, I am a British guy debating American cultural issues, including guns, which has been very polarizing, and there is no doubt that there are many in the audience who are tired of me banging on about it,” he said. “That’s run its course and Jeff and I have been talking for some time about different ways of using me.”
CNN is currently figuring out what it will screen during the plum 9pm slot which Morgan will vacate but it is said to be keen to retain the British presenter to carry out big hitting interviews.