Brian Stelter Returns to CNN as Chief Media Analyst

Brian Stelter, the former host of CNN's "Reliable Sources," is returning to the network as its Chief Media Analyst. He will lead the "Reliable Sources" newsletter and appear on air, developing digital content. Stelter's return comes after the leadership that fired him in 2022 was itself ousted.

Stelter's new role will begin on September 9th. He acknowledges that both the media industry and CNN have changed since his departure, and he has also undergone personal changes. He plans to share his insights on the attention economy and information ecosystem gained from his time away from the network.

Stelter's return to CNN is a significant development, given his previous role as a prominent figure in the network's coverage of Donald Trump and the media. He was seen as a favorite of former CNN president Jeff Zucker, who transformed the network into an anti-Trump media organization. Stelter's program, "Reliable Sources," often attacked Trump and focused on criticizing conservative media.

Stelter's return comes at a time of change for CNN. Chris Licht, who fired Stelter in 2022, was himself ousted in June 2023. Licht's tenure was plagued by internal strife and a failure to earn the trust of CNN employees. Stelter's return is seen as a sign of a shift in direction for the network under its current CEO, Mark Thompson.

Thompson expressed his enthusiasm for Stelter's return, praising his expertise in media commentary and his role as the founder of the "Reliable Sources" newsletter. He believes Stelter is the perfect choice to lead the newsletter into its next chapter.