CNN Bets More of Kaitlan Collins’ White House News Hustle Can Power ‘The Source’

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During the day, Kaitlan Collins tirelessly traverses the White House grounds to gather the most recent updates about various intriguing policies originating from the Trump administration. At night, however, she shares her insights from a sleek broadcasting studio in Washington, maintaining a safe distance from the ongoing political turmoil.

CNN hopes to inject a little of the reporter’s daytime routine into her nighttime one.

As a devoted cinephile, I’m thrilled to share that starting as early as Tuesday evening, I’ll be broadcasting my 9 PM show, “The Source,” from the bustling newsroom of Warner Bros. Discovery in Washington D.C. This change in venue is not just a shift; it’s a cinematic transformation! The aim is to deliver a more dynamic and engaging experience that truly highlights my distinct role within the network. It’s extraordinary to juggle the fast-paced beat of being the chief White House correspondent with the responsibility of steering a primetime hour, every single day of the week. This move promises an unparalleled blend of news and prime-time entertainment!

During a recent interview, Collins shared his thoughts about the show’s new location, stating that it’s not overly relaxed, as there’s always something happening there. He also mentioned that this environment suits the program perfectly. The show “The Source” relies on Collins’ knack for securing high-profile guests like Rep. Dan Crenshaw, Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and even the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, for candid discussions. Collins further explained that the program has a strong emphasis on reporting, making it an ideal backdrop for a show centered around current events such as White House happenings or significant late-night developments on Capitol Hill. In essence, the set will be less glamorous and more focused on delivering news.

CNN maintains its journalistic integrity amidst intense, partisan commentary from its major competitors, Fox News Channel and MSNBC, which attract larger audiences due to their controversial content. In this ongoing battle, Kaitlan Collins has been given a significant position. At just 33 years old, she is one of the network’s youngest figures in top White House positions and also among those gracing the 9 p.m. time slot, a position once held by Larry King, Piers Morgan, and Chris Cuomo. Following her hard-hitting coverage during Donald Trump’s first term, Collins has been frequently entrusted with CNN’s major tasks, such as a troubled morning show and a closely watched town hall meeting with then-presidential candidate Donald Trump.

The alterations made to Collins’ program aren’t the most unexpected adjustments the network has ever attempted – haven’t we all heard about the quiz shows that were backed by a former CNN chief, Jeff Zucker? – but they demonstrate an attempt to break away from the network’s traditional image as a provider of news headlines and attract more viewers during a time when CNN’s ability to do so is being closely examined.

During the first quarter, CNN’s overall prime-time viewership decreased by 6% and dropped 1% among viewers aged 25 to 54, who are preferred by advertisers. Some of the audience figures the network is currently attracting have raised concerns. For instance, “Anderson Cooper 360,” CNN’s most popular show among this demographic, averaged only about 135,000 viewers in this age group during the first quarter. Usually, “The Source” comes in third place behind Fox News Channel’s “Hannity” and more recently, MSNBC’s “The Briefing with Jen Psaki.” However, it is worth noting that while CNN might desire more of its preferred viewers to tune in through streaming video, mobile devices, and social platforms, the network has not given up the fight. Despite recent indications that executives are focusing more on developing products designed to attract digital audiences, they have yet to concede defeat.

Under CEO Mark Thompson, CNN has been trying out innovative ideas such as “News Night”, an argumentative panel show, and “Have I Got News For You” on Saturdays, a program that combines wit, games, and news headlines. This is all part of a broader plan. A significant portion of CNN’s daytime programming focuses on “News Central”, where the anchors act as directors, integrating live videos, statistics, and breaking news into the broadcast.

These concepts are designed to offer CNN viewers additional value during a time when many news leaders admit that conventional broadcasts are struggling to hold people’s attention. According to Thompson’s emailed statement, Collins’ dual role at CNN distinguishes her and leverages her numerous strengths, such as her persistence, keen insights, dry wit, and remarkable poise under pressure. The new format of “The Source,” he explains, is centered around Kaitlan’s unique position not only as a exceptional anchor but also as the diligent reporter who is committed to staying close to the action.

These strategies aren’t just about retaining older viewers, they are also responses to the preferences of a more youthful demographic who are accustomed to less formal presentations and often do not require an anchor seated at a desk. For instance, Fox News has placed opinion host Will Cain in front of a large microphone during a late-afternoon slot that mirrors the appearance of a video podcast.

Collins emphasizes that she aims to connect with her audience in a way that resonates with them, acknowledging the prevalence of shared content on platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and X. She recounts an experience where she posted a video following a meeting in the Zelensky Oval Office, which garnered significant attention, even amidst the Trump controversy. She believes there is merit in this approach, as many individuals nowadays obtain their news from online sources and social media.

Collins’ job is quite demanding, yet it seems she’s always preoccupied and doesn’t seem to have the time to consider if she’s overworked. Throughout the day, she may attempt to catch the attention of lawmakers or White House officials who visit the White House, even when important matters keep her on Pennsylvania Avenue as deadlines approach. A White House press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended until 7:45 in the evening, she mentioned, “and then I was rushing back to the office to make it on time.

Her job is extremely fast-paced and intense, but she makes it enjoyable due to her passion for news. Viewers of CNN have the chance to decide if her dedication brings a fresh energy to “The Source.

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2025-05-27 17:17