What's Happening?
Elex Michaelson, a prominent figure in Los Angeles media, is set to join CNN as a Los Angeles-based anchor. Michaelson, who recently left Fox's L.A. affiliate, will begin his new role this fall, anchoring weeknights from midnight to 2 a.m. ET on CNN and CNN International. This move marks CNN's shift towards live programming during late-night hours, replacing reruns of Anderson Cooper 360 and Erin Burnett Outfront. Michaelson is known for his work on 'The Issue Is' with Elex Michaelson on KTTV, where he interviewed high-profile figures such as President Trump, Joe Biden, and Kamala Harris. His coverage has included significant events like the January wildfires and civil unrest. Michaelson expressed excitement about joining CNN, highlighting the network's investment in the West Coast, a hub for global leaders across various sectors.
Why It's Important?
Michaelson's appointment is significant as it reflects CNN's strategic move to enhance its late-night programming with live content, potentially increasing viewer engagement during these hours. His experience and reputation in covering politics and public affairs could attract a diverse audience interested in in-depth analysis and interviews with influential figures. This development also underscores CNN's commitment to expanding its presence on the West Coast, a region pivotal to politics, entertainment, and technology. The shift could influence other networks to reconsider their late-night strategies, potentially leading to a more competitive landscape in cable news.
What's Next?
As Michaelson transitions to CNN, viewers can anticipate a fresh approach to late-night news coverage, possibly featuring more live interviews and real-time analysis. CNN's investment in this time slot may prompt other networks to innovate their programming to retain or grow their audience share. Additionally, Michaelson's presence could lead to increased coverage of West Coast-centric stories, providing a broader perspective on national and international news.