Reliable Sources returns: A new dawn for media analysis
A fresh start for ‘Reliable Sources’
Brian Stelter is back at the helm of CNN’s “Reliable Sources” (RS), and he’s bringing some significant changes. Starting Monday, RS will publish each weekday morning, Monday through Friday. This marks a shift from its previous evening schedule, which ran Monday through Thursday. Stelter, who returned to CNN after a two-year hiatus, is excited about the new direction. “The new iteration of the newsletter is going to be shorter and sharper,” he says, aiming to provide a more forward-looking perspective on the day’s events.
The evolving media landscape
Stelter’s return comes at a pivotal moment. With a presidential election on the horizon and traditional media outlets grappling with the shift from linear TV to streaming, the media landscape is more volatile than ever. Companies like Paramount Global and CNN’s parent, Warner Bros. Discovery, are navigating these turbulent waters, making the economics of journalism increasingly uncertain.
New competition and collaboration
The media newsletter space has become more crowded. Oliver Darcy, who took over RS after Stelter’s departure, has launched his own independent media-news roundup, “Status.” Stelter welcomes the competition, saying, “The more, the merrier.” He believes RS will complement what Darcy is doing, offering readers a broader spectrum of media analysis.
Morning battles and special editions
Moving RS to mornings means Stelter and his team will compete more directly with other morning newsletters, such as Politico Playbook and Poynter’s media newsletter. Stelter is undeterred, emphasizing that RS will also send out special editions when significant media news breaks. “There are times when media news breaks and the CNN team really shines. I want us to share that work as soon as it is ready, regardless of the time of day,” he says.
Spotlight on CNN journalists
RS will feature contributions from a wide array of CNN journalists. Hadas Gold, CNN’s media correspondent, will cover many breaking stories, while Stelter will take on an analyst role, offering scrutiny and review. Other contributors will include Liam Reilly, Jon Passantino, Donie O’Sullivan, Elizabeth Wagmeister, and Claire Duffy.
Stelter’s journey
Stelter’s rise in the media world has been nothing short of phenomenal. He started with his own blog, “TV Newser,” which he later sold before joining The New York Times. His move to CNN in 2013 under Jeff Zucker expanded his profile significantly. Stelter anchored the weekly “Reliable Sources” program and took on new topics like disinformation and media coverage of former President Donald Trump. By the end of his first tenure at CNN, Stelter was leading the show, the newsletter, and a daily program developed for CNN+.
A new era under Mark Thompson
Stelter’s departure from CNN in August 2022 came after the TV show was canceled by a regime that felt CNN had become too liberal. However, under the new leadership of Mark Thompson, CNN is exploring new opportunities. Thompson has hinted at launching “verticals,” or digital publications devoted to specific topics like wellness, led by CNN experts. While Stelter is not privy to any such plans for RS, he remains focused on providing comprehensive media coverage.
Personal reflections
As a long-time follower of media trends, Stelter’s return to RS feels like a homecoming. His ability to dissect complex media issues and present them in an accessible manner has always been his strength. The new morning schedule and the promise of special editions make RS a must-read for anyone interested in the media industry.
Final thoughts
The re-launch of RS represents a unique moment for both the publication and Stelter. With a fresh perspective and a renewed focus, RS is poised to offer valuable insights into the ever-changing media landscape. Whether you’re a media professional or just a curious reader, RS promises to keep you informed and engaged.
For more information and to stay updated, visit the Reliable Sources page.
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