CNN to Premiere New Show Based in Los Angeles
CNN has officially announced the premiere date and title for its new evening news program, set in Los Angeles. The show, titled “The Story Is with Elex Michaelson,” will debut on October 27, 2025, at midnight Eastern Time. It will broadcast live from the network’s Los Angeles bureau and will continue for two hours until 2 a.m. Eastern.
Program Overview
As an overnight news program, “The Story Is” will cater to viewers in the Eastern and Central time zones, airing at 9 p.m. Pacific and 10 p.m. Mountain time. This slot allows CNN to provide fresh content when other cable networks typically repeat earlier broadcasts. Additionally, the program will be simulcast on CNN International, aligning with morning hours in much of Europe and afternoons in Asia.
Host and Guests
Elex Michaelson, a recognizable figure in L.A. news, will lead the new show. His first guest will be California Governor Gavin Newsom, who will discuss the significant redistricting vote scheduled for November 4, 2025.
- Other confirmed guests for the launch week include:
- Pete Buttigieg (former U.S. Secretary of Transportation)
- Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-CA)
- Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA)
Show Format
“The Story Is” will integrate live panels and debates featuring diverse voices, including:
- Gloria Allred (attorney)
- Areva Martin (attorney)
- Larry Elder (conservative talk radio host)
- Jennifer Horn (conservative talk radio host)
- Brian Tyler Cohen (progressive podcast host)
- Jessica Millan Patterson (former California GOP chair)
- Peter Hamby (journalist from Puck)
- Melanie Mason (journalist from Politico)
Michaelson has expressed his enthusiasm, stating that the show will facilitate meaningful discussions across the political spectrum, moving beyond conventional talking points.
Content Scope
In addition to political discourse, “The Story Is” will cover a wide array of topics, including sports, health, technology, and entertainment. During its first week, the show will provide coverage of Donald Trump’s multi-stop visit to Asia and the World Series taking place in Los Angeles. Michaelson will also feature interviews with singer Josh Groban about the importance of arts education funding, and former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger will join Michaelson to promote a program training ex-convicts in custom car building.
The debut of “The Story Is” presents an exciting opportunity for CNN to deliver new insights and discussions through a contemporary lens, reflecting the dynamic backdrop of Los Angeles.
