Show summary Hide summary
Rahel Solomon shocked viewers when she announced live on air that she’s leaving CNN’s Early Start after four years. The beloved morning anchor broke the unexpected news during the Monday, March 23 broadcast, revealing her final show airs Friday, March 27. Solomon’s departure marks a major shakeup for the network’s earliest news hour.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Final Day: Friday, March 27, 2026, on CNN’s 5 a.m. ET show
- Tenure at CNN: Four years, starting in 2022 from CNBC
- Her Words: She called the departure “not a goodbye, but see you soon”
- Network Response: CNN stated they are “supportive” of her next chapter
Live Announcement Surprise Stuns Morning Show Viewers
Solomon delivered emotional remarks during her Monday morning broadcast, thanking colleagues and reflecting on her time at the network. “I have decided that this will be my last week at CNN. More to come on what’s next for me,” she announced to stunned viewers.
The Ethiopian-American journalist emphasized her gratitude for the coverage she had undertaken. “I’m really excited about this next chapter,” she told her audience, maintaining a positive tone despite the unexpected exit.
Rahel Solomon announces departure from CNN’s Early Start, final show Friday
Akiva Schaffer lands Disney’s Stepsisters directing gig, Cinderella spinoff
Four Years of Breaking News and Business Coverage
Since joining CNN in 2022, Solomon has served as the anchor and business correspondent for the network’s early morning program. She covered major economic stories that shaped the national conversation.
“I have covered everything from inflation to the job market and everything in between,” Solomon reflected during her announcement. “It has been an honor. It has been a privilege.” Her reporting focused on real-world economic issues affecting American families and workers.
Career Journey from Local News to National Platform
Solomon’s career trajectory demonstrates impressive growth across major television networks. She worked as a news anchor at CBS3 Philadelphia from 2015 to 2019, establishing herself as a trusted voice in the Philadelphia market.
| Career Stop | Details |
| CBS3 Philadelphia | 2015-2019: Reporter and morning anchor |
| CNBC | General news reporter before CNN |
| CNN Early Start | 2022-2026: Anchor and business correspondent |
| Education | St. John’s University, Northwestern Medill |
Solomon earned her bachelor’s degree in finance from St. John’s University and completed her master’s degree at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism. These credentials established her expertise in business and economic reporting.
“I have covered everything from inflation to the job market and everything in between. It has been an honor. It has been a privilege. For now, a huge thank you to the team here on Early Start.”
— Rahel Solomon, CNN Anchor
What’s Next After CNN
Solomon remained mysterious about her next steps during the announcement. “More to come on what’s next for me,” she stated, leaving viewers and colleagues speculating about her future plans.
Her departure comes amid broader changes in the television news industry and ownership shifts affecting major networks. Solomon emphasized her excitement moving forward, suggesting she has concrete plans in development. She specifically told viewers this departure was “not a goodbye, but see you soon.”
Will Viewers See Rahel Solomon Again After Friday’s Final Show?
Solomon’s parting words hint at a continued media presence, though her exact destination remains undisclosed. The deadline for her final broadcast is Friday, March 27, giving viewers just a few days to catch the conclusion of her morning show tenure.
A CNN spokesperson confirmed the network is “supportive” of her decision and wishes her success. The vacuum left by Solomon’s departure will challenge the network to find an adequate replacement for the critical 5 a.m. ET slot, which opens each day’s programming schedule.
Sources
- USA TODAY – CNN’s Rahel Solomon announces exit from ‘Early Start’ program
- PennLive – CNN anchor just announced she’s leaving during her live morning show
- Deadline – ‘Early Start’ Anchor Rahel Solomon Says She’s Departing CNN
