CNN to revive ‘Crossfire’ with Gingrich among hosts

{mosads}“Few programs in the history of CNN have had the kind of impact on political discourse that ‘Crossfire’ did – it was a terrific program then, and we believe the time is right to bring it back and do it again,” said CNN president Jeff Zucker in a statement. 

“We look forward to the opportunity to host passionate conversation from all sides of the political spectrum. ‘Crossfire’ will be the forum where America holds its great debates.”

The new cast includes Gingrich (R-Ga.), conservative columnist S.E. Cupp, former Obama deputy campaign manager Stephanie Cutter and former Obama green energy adviser Van Jones.

CNN has revamped its programming lineup in recent months in an attempt to catch up with its cable news competitors. The outlet canceled its morning political talk show with Soledad O’Brien, extended its news hour with Wolf Blitzer, and gave former ABC News White House correspondent Jake Tapper his own show.

“Crossfire” ran weeknights from 1982 to 2005, with former Republican presidential adviser Pat Buchanan and liberal journalist Tom Braden anchoring the bulk of the show’s run. 

The program also brought in guest hosts and personalities ranging from Bob Hope and Rupert Murdoch to Dr. Jack Kevorkian and Kareem Abdul Jabbar.