Believing themselves to be one of the leading forces of truth and facts within the mainstream media, CNN thought it was a great idea to offer viewers a platform that included all things CNN. Not surprising, the app was called CNN+ and cost the network $300 million to create. That doesn’t add the extra $200 million to promote the platform to people in America and across the world. But even with $500 million being poured into the venture, in less than a month from going live, the app was shut down as it only garnered a measly 10,000 viewers a day. Launching in March, it ended on April 28. On top of the millions spent, apparently, CNN hired 700 people to help with the new app. Now, having to lay off over half of the 700 workers, it’s being reported that the network still sent them CNN+ welcome baskets. 

According to the Washington Post, “CNN Plus hired about 700 people for its launch. A person at the network said that 350 people will be affected by layoffs, though the company expects many of those employees to find new roles at the company, absorbed back into CNN or into open jobs at Discovery-owned networks such as the HBO Max streaming service.”

One of the designers for CNN+, who was fired, had only worked on the platform for a few months before he claimed, “I remember texting my roommates and telling them I was getting fired. Everyone was utterly shocked.” As mentioned above, after the lay off, CNN still sent the former employee a welcome basket with a note. 

The note read, “This is an incredible time to be part of CNN. Build relationships and take time to connect with colleagues and learn so that you make the most of your time here.”

Just the latest blunder to come from the network that continues to struggle to keep viewers, CNN admitted to sending the baskets and it was a mistake that they were delivered. It should be noted that inside the basket contained CNN+ merchandise like food containers, headphones, branded pens, and a popcorn machine.

This piece was written by Jeremy Porter on May 16, 2022. It originally appeared in DrewBerquist.com and is used by permission.

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