CNN is mulling an idea to replace Parker Spitzer co-host Kathleen Parker in an effort to boost evening viewership, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing sources.
Parker, a conservative columnist, hosts the show with former New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer. The program has not been able to build on its audience since its October debut, averaging less than 500,000 viewers in its 8 p.m. slot, behind rivals Fox News’ The O’Reilly Factor (2.6 million) and MSNBC’s Countdown With Keith Olbermann (874,000).
The WSJ reports that no decision has been made, and a CNN spokeswoman said: “We aren’t going to engage in speculation. The show continues to improve, and we think it is a good addition to our lineup, providing smart, substantive analysis on the day’s news.”
CNN started making changes across its schedule after Ken Jautz moved from HLN to replace Jonathan Klein atop the network. Jautz, charged with boosting ratings, oversaw a shake-up at American Morning that saw John Roberts exit the show.
In addition, the network has high hopes for Piers Morgan, whose new interview show launches Jan. 17 in Larry King’s former slot.
