Audie Cornish hired by CNN, will host show and podcast on streaming service

Former host of NPR’s “All Things Considered” Audie Cornish is joining CNN and its streaming service next month, the outlet announced on Monday.

Cornish, a veteran journalist and public radio broadcaster, will join CNN+ as an anchor and correspondent, host a weekly show on the streaming platform and contribute to CNN+’s slate of live programming. She will also host a podcast for CNN Audio and will appear on CNN covering national, political and breaking news, the network said. 

“There are fresh stories to be told and new ways to tell them,” Cornish said in a statement. “CNN has a dynamic system of reporters and storytelling channels. I am thrilled to be a part of it.”

Last week, Cornish announced she was leaving NPR after more than a decade with the public broadcaster but did not given a specific reason for her departure. 

“It’s time for me to try my hand at new journalism projects and embark on new adventures,” she said at the time. “It’s been an honor to serve our listeners and a pleasure to work alongside all of you — reporters, producers, engineers, staff, member stations and friends.” 

Cornish’s move comes at a time of reported discord between NPR’s news staffers and executives and the departure of several minority hosts over the last several months. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Audie to CNN+ and CNN Audio,” Andrew Morse, Head of CNN+ said. “Her voice has been such an important part of the lives of so many people, and the perspective, integrity and grace that have been hallmarks of her career will make her such an important addition to our teams.”

Cornish will work out of CNN’s Washington, D.C., offices and start in February. 

CNN has been beefing up its talent and staff for its streaming service, which is slated to launch this quarter. Last month, the network announced it had hired veteran news anchor Chris Wallace away from Fox News.