Warner Bros. Discovery anticipates CNN will generate approximately $600 million in adjusted operating profit in 2026, according to a recent SEC filing. This figure represents a significant decline from the nearly $1 billion in gross profit the news network achieved a decade prior, as reported by the Washington Post.

The projected $600 million profit underscores a shift in CNN's financial performance. While still a key contributor to Warner Bros. Discovery's linear TV business, CNN's profitability has diminished compared to its pre-2016 levels. This decrease reflects broader trends in the media landscape, including the fragmentation of audiences and the rise of digital platforms.

Warner Bros. Discovery expects CNN's revenue to grow over the next five years, banking on the growth of its direct-to-consumer streaming business to offset losses in traditional television revenue. The company's strategy hinges on successfully transitioning CNN's audience to digital platforms and monetizing its streaming offerings.

CNN's evolution mirrors the challenges faced by many legacy media organizations navigating the digital age. The network's ability to adapt its business model and attract new audiences will be crucial in maintaining its financial viability and relevance in the evolving media landscape. The success of its streaming ventures will be a key indicator of its future performance and its contribution to Warner Bros. Discovery's overall financial health.