Cable News Network
CNN (Cable News Network) is known for transforming the news industry and becoming the first television channel to provide 24-hour news coverage in the U.S. In this slideshow, we explore the network’s founding and rise to prominence through the 1980s and 1990s.
Midtown Atlanta
Based in Midtown Atlanta, Georgia, the network was founded in 1980 by media proprietor Ted Turner and Reese Schonfeld. It is currently owned by Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), a Manhattan-based media conglomerate.
Ted Turner
It launched on June 1, 1980 with an introduction from Ted Turner and included a version of “The Star-Spangled Banner” before the first newscast, anchored by Dave Walker and Lois Hart.
Despite technical difficulties
CNN gained attention with early segments like an interview with President Jimmy Carter and live responses from presidential candidates during the 1980 debates despite technical difficulties.
Renamed CNN Center
In 1985, CNN moved its headquarters to the Omni International complex in Atlanta, which was renamed CNN Center.
Gained popularity
Major programs launched during CNN’s early years included “Moneyline,” which became CNN’s main financial program, and “Crossfire,” a political debate show that later gained popularity during prime time.
Larry King Live
Larry King Live debuted in June 1985, becoming CNN’s longest-running program for 25 years until 2010, known for its unique interview style and high ratings during its run.
Tom Johnson
In 1990, Tom Johnson was appointed as president of CNN, having previously served as the publisher of the Los Angeles Times for 13 years.
Global audiences
Under Johnson’s leadership, CNN launched CNN International in 1991, expanding the network’s reach to global audiences.
Specialty news
In 1996, CNN launched two new specialty news channels: CNNSI, focused on sports news, and CNNfn, focused on business news, though both were eventually shut down (CNNSI in 2002 and CNNfn in 2004).
Popular news websites
CNN’s website, CNN.com, was launched on August 30, 1995, evolving from an experiment into one of the most popular news websites globally, with additional specialized sites like CNNMoney introduced later.
Reports from Iraq
CNN gained significant legitimacy during the 1991 Gulf War, being the only news outlet providing live reports from Iraq.
CNN effect
The term “CNN effect” was coined by Pentagon officials to illustrate the influence of real-time news coverage on government decision-making.
Political and legal
Notable shows created during this period included “Both Sides with Jesse Jackson,” “Capital Gang,” “Burden of Proof,” and “TalkBack Live,” addressing various political and legal issues.
Cable news
In 1996, CNN faced its first significant competition with the launches of MSNBC and Fox News Channel, although it continued to be the top-rated cable news channel.
Cable networks
As of December 2023, CNN had approximately 68.97 million television households as subscribers in the U.S. In 2022, CNN has declined to 21st place among basic cable networks.