Howard Kurtz Leaves CNN For Fox News, Will Anchor Weekend Media Program
A month after he came close to losing his CNN job, Howard Kurtz is leaving the news cable network for rival Fox News. Starting July 1, he will anchor a version of Fox News Watch, which focuses on the media, with a new format during the weekends. That is in line of Kurtz’s current duties as host of CNN’s Reliable Sources where his current contract was reportedly up. Fox News Watch‘s anchor Jon Scott will move to the specials unit where he will serve as anchor. Additionally, Kurtz will serve as an on-air analyst for programs throughout the week, while also writing a regular column on FoxNews.com, commenting on social media news, industry trends and the intersection of media and politics. “Howie is the most accomplished media reporter in the country,” said Fox News EVP Michael Clemente. “He’s also a master of social media trends, information good and bad, and a veteran political reporter.”
Kurtz, who has hosted CNN’s media criticism program Reliable Sources since 1998, came under scrutiny in early May when what he characterized as “sloppy” reporting on NBA player Jason Collins got him canned from his gig as D.C. bureau chief for Daily Beast and Newsweek. The incident also triggered an internal review at CNN, with Kurtz ultimately keeping his job and apologizing for his flub on the show. “I want to thank CNN for giving me such a prime opportunity over the years and was tempted to continue, but the chance to create a revamped program and establish a strong online presence was too good to pass up,” Kurtz said. “I hope to add a new dimension to Fox’s coverage and have some fun while diving into the passionate debates about the press and politics.”
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