The Town with Matthew Belloni cover image

The Town with Matthew Belloni

Will the Debate Debacle Revive TV News?

Jun 28, 2024
Journalist Ben Smith and host Matt discuss the impact of the recent presidential debate on CNN's future, challenges in TV news, and the transition to streaming era. They explore CNN's branding shift, international news coverage challenges, and debate news networks' revenue models. Speculations on CNN's future, potential sale, and talent retention are highlighted.
32:25

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • CNN may see a short-term ratings boost post-debate, but long-term solutions are crucial for business sustainability.
  • CNN is shifting towards a subscription-based revenue model to counter linear TV decline and engage super users.

Deep dives

Implications of the Presidential Debate on CNN and the News Networks

The recent presidential debate's impact on CNN and other news networks is analyzed. CNN, facing declining business in linear TV, must navigate the challenge of adapting to the changing media landscape. The debate, highlighting issues surrounding Biden's performance and age, may provide a temporary ratings boost for CNN, but long-term solutions beyond sensational stories are needed to address the network's enduring business challenges.

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