Christiane Amanpour to leave CNN after 43 years

Veteran journalist Christiane Amanpour announced her departure from CNN after a 43-year career as one of the network's most prominent international correspondents. The 68-year-old reporter, known for her coverage of the 1991 Gulf War, cited her desire for fierce independence amidst various pressures as the primary reason for her decision.

Amanpour, who has interviewed numerous world leaders and reported from conflict zones such as Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Balkans, emphasized her commitment to maintaining CNN's reputation for independent journalism. Her daily news show on CNN will decrease to once a week until June, while her PBS program will conclude. CNN CEO Mark Thompson praised Amanpour for her 43 years of remarkable journalism, loyalty, and friendship, expressing sadness at her departure but understanding the timing as right for her personally and professionally.