Journalist group hits CNN for lack of diversity in streaming lineup

A leading group of Hispanic journalists is criticizing CNN for a lack of Latino representation as part of its newly-announced lineup of hosts for its soon-to-be-launched streaming service. 

The National Association of Hispanic Journalists, in a statement this week, said it is “appalled by the lack of Latino journalists” hired to host programs on CNN+, which is scheduled to go live this month.  

“This lack of representation is not only disrespectful to our diverse community, but also disregards the well-qualified Latino talent pool within the organization,” the organization said. “We expect Chris Licht to do better to ensure that CNN hosts delivering the news reflect the communities they cover, and that diverse candidates are given equal opportunity.” 

Licht was tapped over the weekend to serve as CNN’s new president. He will oversee all of the network’s news programming, including its efforts on streaming. 

Last week, CNN rolled out a full list of journalists and personalities set to host news, talk and feature programs on CNN+. 

These hosts include longtime network faces like Wolf Blitzer, Anderson Cooper and Don Lemon. They also include newcomers to the outlet like Chris Wallace, Audie Cornish and Jemele Hill. 

Actress, producer and activist Eva Longoria is among the new faces coming to CNN for its streaming service.

Longoria, who is the daughter of Mexican American parents, is hosting the upcoming CNN Original Series dubbed “Eva Longoria: Searching for Mexico,” as a new iteration of the critically acclaimed “Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy.”

“As a longstanding partner of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, we are proud to launch CNN+ with a very diverse lineup including the previously announced Eva Longoria: Searching for Mexico, which is currently in production,” a network spokesperson said in a statement to The Hill about diversity on Wednesday. “We continue to have discussions with journalists across the industry around opportunities at CNN+ and look forward to announcing more diverse shows, talent and content offerings soon.” 

CNN’s parent company, WarnerMedia, is currently in the midst of a massive merger with media conglomerate Discovery and is moving forward after the sudden resignation of its former president, Jeff Zucker, last month amid revelations of a romantic relationship with another top-level staffer and allegations of ethical misconduct by former top anchor Chris Cuomo.