CBC News today announced a new strategic approach to better serve audiences across Canada on both television and digital platforms through an enhanced news offering in the year ahead, including the launch of a free streaming channel.
“The world of news media, TV and video journalism is changing rapidly. Yet the demand for trusted, quality journalism is unchanged. To reach audiences in new ways, we are making a strategic push into the world of streaming news with the launch of a FAST channel, while continuing to broaden and deepen the storytelling on our flagship program, The National,” said Susan Marjetti, General Manager of News, Current Affairs & Local, CBC.
“As audience behaviour continues to shift and new platforms emerge, Adrienne, Andrew and Ian are helping us meet these exciting challenges head-on, each by taking on more responsibility so we can better serve Canadians with more original journalism wherever audiences want us,” said Brodie Fenlon, Editor in Chief, CBC News.
This fall, CBC News will launch a free 24/7 ad-supported streaming (FAST) news channel for streaming, digital and connected TV platforms, offering the best of CBC local, national and current affairs journalism. As it has throughout the pandemic and during every major news event, CBC News Network continues to serve as Canada’s live and breaking subscription news channel offered on cable, satellite and CBC Gem.
CBC News’ trusted and award-winning flagship television program The National will also serve as a core pillar of the new streaming channel, with acclaimed journalist Adrienne Arsenault named Chief Correspondent for CBC News. Adrienne will anchor The National Monday to Thursday, starting this fall.
“Adrienne’s many years in the field and her rich journalism experience make her uniquely positioned to take viewers of The National to the biggest stories shaping our world. Adrienne’s signature ‘take-me-there’ approach to storytelling and news writing resonates strongly with digital, on-demand audiences looking for quality current affairs and long-form content. Expect to see more of her on-the-ground reporting and anchoring from the field as Adrienne steps fully into the role of chief correspondent in the fall,” said Fenlon.
Meanwhile, Andrew Chang will play a central role on the new streaming channel, hosting a new daily show that will be the centrepiece of each weekday. The program will also be available on CBC Gem, CBCNews.ca, the CBC News app and YouTube. Chang will step away from The National in August to begin development on the program.
“Andrew’s new show, targeted at a new streaming audience, will capitalize on his strong news judgement and innate ability to engage people of all ages,” added Fenlon.
Ian Hanomansing has been named the new permanent host of Cross Country Checkup on CBC Radio and CBC News Network, and he will continue to host The National on Friday and Sunday. He will also host a new weekly interview series on The National in the fall, building on his growing and deepening connection with Canadians across the country and on all platforms.
