CNN Cuts Back on Original Series and Films

CNN will stop buying documentary films and original TV series as part of its cost-cutting efforts, according to a memo from the network's chairman.

In an email to employees, Mr. Licht said that the network would be moving away from those movies and shows.

CNN's long-form content will be produced by an internal studio led by the company's executive vice president for talent and content development.

It was a very difficult decision to make and it was based on the increasing cost of third-party premium content.

CNN's budget will be cut before the end of the year and there will be noticeable change for the network. The worsening economy and pressure from CNN parent Warner Bros. led to more severe cost-cutting than was expected.

Warner Bros. Discovery's stock has taken a beating since the company began trading on the Nasdaq.

There will be some layoffs at CNN according to a person with knowledge of the decision.

CNN has six original series and six films planned for next year, including a documentary about opiate traffickers and a film about black television.

Over the last decade, CNN has won critical praise with films like "RBG" and shows like "United Shades of America" with comedian W. Kamau Bell. CNN is airing an original series called "The Murdochs: Empire of Influence."