The Atlantic published an expose about newsroom turmoil at CNN, and while it includes details about CEO Chris Licht’s weight loss transformation, it fails to mention that he allegedly used the weight loss drug Ozempic. Licht reportedly touted the drug, which suppresses appetite and is used to treat Type 2 diabetes, and journalists are speculating about which celebrities may also be taking it. Despite the controversies at CNN, including the Don Lemon situation, Licht told staffers on Monday that he is staying on as CEO.
CNN CEO Chris Licht achieved a 50-pound weight transformation using Ozempic, a controversial new weight loss drug that is also a favorite among Hollywood celebrities and suppresses appetite.
A recent article by the Atlantic about CNN’s newsroom turmoil has caused quite a stir in the media industry. However, one particular detail that has caught the attention of many is how CNN CEO Chris Licht achieved his dramatic weight loss. While the article follows him in the gym and interviews his trainer, it fails to mention that Licht is allegedly a big fan of the controversial weight loss drug Ozempic. Ozempic is Hollywood’s latest wonder drug for weight loss, which treats Type 2 diabetes and suppresses appetite thanks to its ingredient semaglutide.
According to sources close to Licht, he was the first person they had ever heard mentioning Ozempic. The CNN boss allegedly touted the wonder drug even when he was show-runner on “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert” and was still at CBS. Celebrities such as Sharon Osbourne, Chelsea Handler, and Elon Musk have publicly said they’ve used Ozempic or its sister drug, Wegovy, for weight management.
The Daily Mail also reported that two senior staffers said they witnessed Licht “boasting” about using Ozempic. However, some staffers were “floored” to read the Atlantic piece because it left out the real secret to losing all his weight: Ozempic. The article claims that the dig about Licht’s predecessor Jeff Zucker’s fitness “was beyond hypocritical as he lost all of his weight on Ozempic.”
While the controversy around Licht’s weight loss is gaining traction, his reign at CNN since taking over for Zucker has been hit by internal turmoil, particularly over ousted anchor Don Lemon, who Licht moved to mornings. In a recent editorial call, Licht addressed his underlings about the Atlantic article, saying, “CNN is not about me… I should not be in the news unless it’s taking arrows for you. Your work is what should be written about.” He also apologized for the distraction caused by the news cycle, emphasizing that his role is to fight to ensure CNN remains the world’s most trusted name in news.
In conclusion, while Licht’s weight loss secrets are causing a buzz in the media, his recent address to his staff shows that his focus is on rebuilding trust and ensuring CNN continues to be a top news source.