Kara Swisher Quits CNN Over Paramount Skydance Deal
Tech journalist Kara Swisher has confirmed she will leave CNN as soon as the Paramount Skydance acquisition is finalized. She cited doubts about the new owners’ editorial direction and a desire to avoid working with Bari Weiss, the wife of her former partner Nellie Bowles, who is rumored to take a…
By Felo News Desk · Published
Tech media veteran Kara Swisher has declared that she will exit CNN once the Paramount Skydance takeover is complete. The announcement came during an episode of her podcast, The Pivot, where she expressed frustration with the prospective new owners and a reluctance to work under Bari Weiss, the wife of her former partner Nellie Bowles.
What Happened
On Tuesday, Swisher used her popular podcast platform to reveal her intention to leave CNN. She said, “I don’t want to work for them,” after hearing that David Ellison’s Paramount Skydance is set to absorb the network. The statement was followed by a brief rant, “F–k these guys,” in which she criticized the incoming leadership’s editorial approach.
Background on the Deal
Paramount Skydance, led by billionaire David Ellison, has been in talks to acquire CNN from its current owners. The deal, if finalized, would bring CNN under the same corporate umbrella as CBS News, which Ellison purchased in 2025. Industry insiders suggest that the merger could lead to a reshuffling of senior editorial positions, with Bari Weiss, the wife of former CNN executive Nellie Bowles, being considered for a top role.
Nellie Bowles, a former CNN executive and co‑founder of the digital outlet The Free Press, was in a romantic relationship with Swisher in the 2010s. Bowles later married Bari Weiss, a journalist known for her work at The New York Times and The Atlantic. The two women now share a family and have been linked to the upcoming restructuring of CNN’s editorial leadership.
Swisher’s Reasons for Leaving
Swisher’s decision appears driven by two main factors. First, she has long expressed skepticism about the new owners’ commitment to independent journalism. Second, she reportedly feels uncomfortable working under Bari Weiss, whom she sees as an extension of her former partner’s influence. In a public statement on social media, Swisher wrote, “I have been saying for a long time that I would depart CNN if the deal goes through, due to my lack of confidence in the owners as decent media stewards & not whatever minion they decide to install.”
Her contract with CNN runs through December 31, 2025, and she has asked her agent to negotiate an early exit. If the deal closes before then, Swisher could leave the network in the middle of the holiday season, potentially creating a temporary gap in the network’s tech coverage.
What’s Next for CNN?
The acquisition, if approved, will likely bring significant changes to CNN’s editorial structure. Bari Weiss is rumored to oversee editorial operations across both CBS News and CNN, a move that could shift the network’s tone and priorities. CNN’s current leadership is expected to announce new appointments as the deal progresses.
For Swisher, the next steps involve finalizing her departure and potentially launching a new media venture. She has hinted at continuing her podcasting work and could explore opportunities in independent journalism or tech commentary outside of CNN’s corporate framework.
Why This Matters
Swisher’s exit underscores the broader debate over media consolidation and editorial independence. Her departure signals a warning to other journalists about the potential loss of creative autonomy when large conglomerates acquire media outlets.
Key facts
- Kara Swisher will exit CNN after Paramount Skydance takeover
- She doubts new owners’ editorial direction
- Bari Weiss, wife of ex-partner Nellie Bowles, may assume senior role
- Swisher’s contract ends Dec 31, 2025, but seeks early exit
- Deal could reshape CNN’s editorial structure
Why it matters
Swisher’s departure highlights the tension between journalistic integrity and corporate control in a rapidly consolidating media landscape.
Frequently asked questions
What is the status of the Paramount Skydance acquisition?
The deal is still in negotiation, pending regulatory approval.
Will Bari Weiss take a leadership role at CNN?
Industry speculation suggests she could oversee editorial operations, but no official announcement has been made.
What will Kara Swisher do after leaving CNN?
She plans to continue her podcasting and may explore independent journalism projects.
Sources
- [1] nypost.com — originally reported as “Exclusive | Chatter around CNN deal says Kara Swisher is quitting over ex Nellie Bowles”
