There are unconfirmed reports circulating online that the deal to bring Gayle King(WFSB) and Charles Barkley together for a once a week show on CNN is about done, but even before it’s announced there is controversy and questions about the reasoning behind the enterprise.
First there is the reported salary for King: $12 million.
Second there is the recent cutbacks at CNN aimed at reducing costs. Many line employees have lost their jobs and the money that might have paid them may now be going to King and Barkley. Morale alert!
Third there is the basic question behind the effort to land this pair for a once a week program as a way to improve ratings. What can King and Barkley possibly do – one hour a week – that would turn things around for a 24/7 news network?
The premise seems flawed. The optics so far are not good for the network, for CNN President and Connecticut native Chris Licht, or for King and Barkley who will be the focus of resentment internally from day one.
