CNN thinking about launching late-night comedy venture: Report
Julia Johnson
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CNN is mulling over a venture into late-night comedy.
As the network continues to revamp after Chairman and CEO Chris Licht’s takeover, CNN is reportedly looking for a comedian to fill the hours of 9:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m.
“They’re looking for their version of John Oliver,” a source told one outlet.
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Five sources relayed to one outlet that CNN executives have proposed the likes of Bill Maher, Trevor Noah, Arsenio Hall, and Jon Stewart for the role, all of whom have late-night experience.
The network is reportedly looking to prime-time and late-night talk shows that focus on news topics for insight.
Despite being floated as a prospective host, Hall, one report claims, is not seriously being considered. The comedian hosted The Arsenio Hall Show from 1989 to 1994. Former President Bill Clinton’s appearance on the program is often credited in part for his 1992 presidential win.
During the appearance, Clinton played a solo version of Elvis Presley’s “Heartbreak Hotel.”
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According to insiders, CNN is looking to compete less with MSNBC, providing content solely for politically inclined and left-leaning people, and instead dabbling with content for the audiences of HGTV, ESPN, and Netflix.
Licht is also reportedly trying to use CNN as a tool to promote content from other Warner Discovery brands. HBO and Warner Brothers are connected to the network, giving it an opportunity for collaboration.
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Executives are further toying with the idea of a variety-type show for the hours between 9:00 p.m. and 12:00 a.m. The idea would feature “shows within shows” with several journalists involved.
Recently, CNN revealed that it is making changes to its daily lineup. Anchors will no longer be seated behind desks, according to the network. Instead, they will use the entire studio and equip innovative technology. Additionally, the daytime hours will be broken into two three-hour segments, one broadcast from New York City and the other from Washington, D.C.