CNN to debut new morning show with Don Lemon, Poppy Harlow and Kaitlan Collins

CNN on Thursday announced plans for a new morning show anchored by Don Lemon, Poppy Harlow and Kaitlan Collins that will debut later this year, replacing the network’s current morning show “New Day.”

“There is no stronger combination of talent than Don, Poppy and Kaitlan to deliver on our promise of a game-changing morning news program,” CNN CEO Chris Licht said in a press release. “They are each uniquely intelligent, reliable and compelling; together they have a rare and palpable chemistry. Combined with CNN’s resources and global newsgathering capabilities, we will offer a smart, bold and refreshing way to start the day.”

The show will feature a different format from “New Day” and will be taped on a different set, according to CNN. Current hosts John Berman and Brianna Keilar will continue to anchor “New Day” until the new show debuts, after which they will transition to new roles within the network, the network said.

Lemon, one of the most recognizable faces at the network, will end his nightly show “Don Lemon Tonight” to join the new program. CNN did not say whether Harlow will give up her roles as an anchor on “CNN Newsroom,'' and host of the CNN podcast “Boss Files” to join the early morning slot. Collins, who became CNN’s youngest chief White House correspondent at 29 years old, will serve as both co-anchor and chief correspondent on the show.

The announcement marks perhaps the most significant new programming move from Licht, who joined CNN in May. Earlier this year, a handful of figures known for being critical of former president Donald Trump departed the network, including White House correspondent John Harwood and Brian Stetler, whose show “Reliable Sources” was canceled in August.