In a move that could send ripples of concern through the television news industry, Scripps is shutting down the national news programming produced by its Scripps News unit. This decision will result in an estimated 200 job cuts and marks a significant retreat from the company’s ambitious effort to offer national news coverage across its numerous TV stations.
This comes as the second news network to shut down in 2024, with Newsnet shutting down its service earlier this year.
Scripps, which owns ION and other national networks, launched Scripps News in early 2023 by merging its live-streaming service Newsy with its local news operations and Washington bureau, according to a report from Variety. The goal was to distribute national news programming across its local stations and streaming platforms.
However, the company faced a significant hurdle: a lack of advertiser support. Scripps CEO Adam Symons attributed this to the current political climate, stating that many brands and agencies find advertising around national news “too risky” due to the polarized nature of the country.
“I vehemently disagree, but it is hurting Scripps News, along with every other national linear and digital news outlet,” Symons said in a statement to staff.
The network was mostly available on free over-the-air TV stations around the country but was also offered in select markets on cable networks and others like DISH and U-verse TV.
This challenge is not unique to Scripps. Many TV news operations are grappling with declining advertising revenue as brands become increasingly wary of associating their products with potentially controversial political content.
In response, several news organizations have shifted towards roundtable programs featuring diverse perspectives instead of relying on single-opinion hosts. This trend is evident in the success of Fox News Channel’s “The Five,” MSNBC’s “The Weekend,” and CNN’s revamped “NewsNight.”
Despite the shutdown of its national programming, Scripps News will continue to play a role in the company’s portfolio. Approximately 50 staff members will remain to provide national and international reporting for local audiences and produce streaming and digital content.
“This is not the end of Scripps News as an important part of our company,” Symson assured. “We will prioritize field reporting, our strong political coverage, investigative reporting and our digital and social media presence.”
This development raises questions about the future of national news programming and the challenges faced by media organizations in navigating a polarized and sensitive advertising landscape. Whether other networks will follow suit or find alternative strategies to maintain advertiser support remains to be seen.