CNN is looking for a ratings rebound in the likes of a potential Charles Barkley hire.
CEO Chris Licht is hoping to bring on the former NBA player and current sports analyst amid spiraling ratings, but the deal is reportedly angering some CNN staffers, calling it “another disaster waiting to happen.”
WATCH: DON LEMON RETURNS TO CNN, GETS ‘TRAINING’ TIPS FROM MEGYN KELLY
"People watch him to talk about sports, not politics and social justice issues and he’s expensive!” a CNN insider told Page Six. “They’ll be spending a lot of money on someone who’s not a real journalist. That’s not going to help morale when people have lost jobs there.”
CNN’s ratings have been in a downward spiral, consistently trailing Fox News and MSNBC in total viewers and the key 25-54 age demographic.
In an effort to save the network, Licht has brought several shake-ups to CNN’s show schedule and employee line-up.
“He’s taken so many swings and they’ve been big misses!” Another insider said. “It’s very sad how he’s taking this iconic brand and destroying it.”
In response to the rumblings, CNN is reportedly vowing not to “be distracted.”
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER
“You can find people to anonymously hate on every decision at every organization in the world,” a CNN representative said. “CNN is in talks with some incredible talent to reimagine primetime and we won’t be distracted.”
The news comes as CNN manages backlash over controversial comments made by host Don Lemon regarding 2024 presidential candidate Nikki Haley being past her prime.