After two years and low viewership at CNN, Chris Wallace is trading political coverage for podcasting dreams, saying goodbye to cable news while feeling 'excited and liberated'—clearly, less politics means more freedom!

Chris Wallace, once a titan of traditional television news, is stepping away from CNN after two low-viewership years, seeking a fresh start in the independent streaming and podcasting realms. Citing a fatigue with exclusive political coverage and a desire for liberation, Wallace's departure was confirmed by CNN's CEO and comes alongside a rejection of a contract extension. As Wallace wraps up his shows, viewers are left wondering if they’ll miss the face that made the political landscape more bearable, or if they’ll flock to his new projects just to see if he can avoid talking about politics for once.

Chris Wallace's exit from CNN marks the end of an era. After more than two years at the cable news giant, it seems the anchor is hungering for something other than contentious interviews and political talking points. During his time, Wallace hosted various programs, including the much-speculated 'Who's Talking to Chris Wallace?' and 'The Chris Wallace Show,' both of which sadly captivated about as many viewers as a mime at a sound convention.

His contract with CNN was originally designed to last three years, beginning in December 2021, but Wallace’s enthusiasm for cable news proved to be as fleeting as his audience. The disruption caused by CNN+'s shutdown shortly after its launch significantly impacted Wallace's initial role at CNN. This development led to speculation about his future in the industry, as he considering pursuing opportunities in independent streaming or podcasting instead of remaining with traditional cable.

Hospitable as always, CNN's CEO, Mark Thompson, described Wallace as 'one of the most respected political journalists' with a resume that sparkled brighter than the last few seasons of 'Survivor.' However, a great resume doesn’t always lead to actual viewership, as evidenced by the spectacularly uninspiring numbers of 'The Chris Wallace Show,' which might have made one ponder if it was broadcasted or if it was merely an elaborate art project gone wrong.

During his tenure, Wallace reportedly felt a growing urge to branch out from the political gold mine he had previously cultivated. He expressed this sentiment clearly, stating he was 'tired' of the incessant cycle of covering politics. One could imagine him envisioning the lighter side of life, where news was free of partisan squabbles and the only debates involved the best ice cream flavors. Clearly, the thought of aiming a microphone at something other than political debates sounded like a refreshing change of pace.

Mark Thompson's confirmation of Wallace’s departure comes as Wallace gracefully bows out, feeling decidedly 'excited and liberated.' Such decadent feelings after 55 years in the industry could evoke envy in the more tethered journalists out there, who find themselves chained to their desks with an endless stream of breaking news. As Wallace prepares to pivot toward independent streaming and podcasting, one can only hope he has a greater plan than sketching out chair designs and offering unsolicited theories on cats’ behavioral problems.

With his shows wrapping up later this year, Wallace is showing his viewers what it means to take fate into his own hands—basking in the sweet aroma of new opportunities in the increasingly diffuse domain of podcasts and streaming. Or, as many have playfully questioned, is he merely stepping into a space that thrives on the 'incredible' debate of very niche subjects like the best way to fold a fitted sheet?

While some long for a return to Wallace's political insights, many viewers will undoubtedly experience a mix of confusion and curiosity regarding his future endeavors. Will he manage to break free from the shackles of politics and enchant audiences with personal stories from an illustrious journalism career? Or will he find a way to weave his colorful past into explorations of less politically charged topics, such as the burgeoning popularity of sourdough bread during lockdown?

In any case, as Wallace embarks on this venture, we can count on one thing: whatever content he conjures up will have the hallmark of an experienced journalist, albeit without the incessant bickering over who has the better healthcare plan. As viewers, we can only anticipate what amazing stories, interviews, or mysteries lie ahead for the man who decided that a future in podcasting might just be the escape route he's been looking for—one without a political pundit in sight.