CNN Headlines Expands Programming Slate with New shows
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atlanta, GA - August 18, 2025 - CNN is bolstering its free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channel, CNN Headlines, with a fresh lineup of programming designed to attract a wider audience and complement its existing cable offerings. This strategic expansion reflects the growing importance of FAST channels in the current media surroundings.
New Programming Highlights
The network announced three new shows for CNN Headlines: CNN Headline Express,ICYMI (In Case You Missed it),and American Pulse. These additions aim to provide viewers with a diverse range of news and information, from breaking national and international events to local reporting.
CNN Headline Express will be hosted by brad smith, who joined CNN in july after previous roles at Yahoo! Finance and Cheddar. The program will cover a broad spectrum of topics, including news, sports, entertainment, business, and culture. ICYMI will curate stories from CNN’s existing U.S. programming, offering a convenient way for viewers to catch up on missed content. American Pulse will showcase reporting from CNN’s network of affiliate stations across the country,providing a localized outlook on national stories.
Did You Know? The FAST channel market is experiencing meaningful growth, with revenue projected to reach $6.1 billion in 2024, according to a report by Statista [Statista].
Executive Insights
Eric Sherling, executive vice president of U.S. programming for CNN Worldwide, emphasized the network’s commitment to leveraging its resources to serve a growing audience. “by tapping into our vast affiliate network and providing timely live news updates,our refreshed offering serves the growing market and complements our existing cable programming,” Sherling stated.
Expanding the CNN Streaming Ecosystem
CNN is actively developing its streaming presence with plans to launch a new subscription-based news service that will include access to CNN.com. This move follows the implementation of a paywall on CNN.com last year. In 2024, the network also debuted the CNN Originals FAST channel, dedicated to long-form content from its original series library. This multi-pronged approach demonstrates CNN’s commitment to adapting to changing consumer habits and diversifying its revenue streams.
Pro Tip: FAST channels offer a cost-effective way for media companies to reach viewers who are cutting the cord and seeking free, ad-supported content.
Accessibility and Availability
CNN Headlines is currently available on a variety of connected television platforms, including Roku, as well as through the CNN app and directly on CNN.com’s homepage. This widespread availability ensures that viewers can easily access the channel’s programming on thier preferred devices.
Key Developments Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| July 2025 | Brad Smith joins CNN |
| 2024 | CNN launches CNN Originals FAST channel |
| Last Year (2024) | CNN.com implements a paywall |
What impact will these new programs have on CNN’s viewership numbers? And how will CNN balance its traditional cable offerings with its expanding streaming services?
The rise of FAST channels represents a significant shift in the media landscape,driven by consumer demand for free,ad-supported content. This trend is particularly pronounced among cord-cutters and cord-nevers,who are increasingly turning to streaming services for their news and entertainment. CNN’s investment in CNN headlines and its broader streaming strategy positions the network to capitalize on this growing market.The success of these initiatives will depend on CNN’s ability to deliver high-quality, engaging content that appeals to a diverse audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a FAST channel? A FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television) channel is a streaming television channel that is free to watch and supported by advertising.
- Who is Brad smith? Brad Smith is the host of CNN Headline Express and a recent addition to the CNN team,previously working at Yahoo! Finance and Cheddar.
- What is the purpose of American Pulse? American Pulse features reporting from CNN’s affiliate stations across the country, offering a local perspective on national news.
- Is CNN.com still available for free? Parts of CNN.com are now behind a paywall, launched last year, but access is included with the upcoming subscription streaming service.
- Where can I watch CNN Headlines? CNN Headlines is available on Roku, the CNN app, and CNN.com’s homepage.
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