Poppy Harlow, a veteran anchor at CNN, has announced her departure from the network following the discontinuation of the morning show “CNN This Morning,” which she co-hosted. Her exit marks the end of a tumultuous period for the show, which never managed to find its footing in the ratings and was plagued by internal conflicts and controversies.
Harlow, 41, has been with CNN since 2008, making significant contributions across various roles, including as a field reporter and anchor. Her decision to leave was shared during a CNN editorial call by the network’s boss, Mark Thompson, and Harlow herself confirmed the news in a heartfelt email to her colleagues.
In her email, Harlow reflected on her journey at CNN, noting how she had grown both personally and professionally since she started at the network at the age of 25. She expressed deep gratitude for the experiences and opportunities she had at CNN, highlighting how the network shaped her into the journalist and person she is today.
The circumstances surrounding the morning show’s demise were challenging. Harlow’s tenure on “CNN This Morning” was notably difficult, culminating in the show’s cancellation earlier this year. This decision came after a series of on-air meltdowns involving her co-host Don Lemon, which dramatically lowered the show’s public and internal standing at CNN.
Despite the show’s struggles, Harlow was offered a new role at CNN around the same time as her co-host Phil Mattingly was named chief domestic correspondent. However, after careful consideration, she chose to decline the offer, indicating a desire to take her career in a different direction.
Amy Entelis, CNN’s executive vice president for talent, CNN Originals, and creative development, praised Harlow for her exceptional journalism and empathetic approach to storytelling. Mark Thompson echoed these sentiments, acknowledging Harlow’s unique talent and professionalism.
Looking ahead, Harlow plans to focus on her family, particularly enjoying the simple pleasure of walking her children to school, while also supporting the evolution of journalism in meaningful ways. She remains optimistic about her future endeavors outside CNN, carrying with her the lessons and experiences from her time at the network.