CNN Finalizing Deal to Add Gayle King as It Hits Lowest Ratings in Decades

CNN is finalizing a deal for “CBS Mornings” anchor Gayle King to host a weekly prime-time show, according to people familiar with the situation, as network boss Chris Lichtexperiments with new programming to counter a steep ratings slide. 

Ms. King, 68 years old, is expected to begin hosting a once-a-week show this fall, while continuing her duties at CBS, the people said. CNN is also in conversation with former NBA player Charles Barkley about potentially joining a show with Ms. King, they said. 

Mr. Licht has been struggling to find the right formula for prime time since he took over last May. The network was on track to average 575,000 prime-time viewers for the first quarter as of March 1, down 30% from a year ago and its lowest quarterly ratings average since 2015, according to Nielsen data. 

In March, CNN is set to post its lowest monthly rating in at least three decades among adults 25 to 54, a key demographic for advertisers.

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