Upfronts 2014: CNN Announces Primetime Lineup

CNN is adding five new series and returning two shows to its primetime lineup, the network announced at its upfront presentation today in New York.

The new original programming includes documentary series from John Walsh and Lisa Ling, as well as Somebody’s Gotta Do It, featuring former host of Discovery Channel’s Dirty Jobs Mike Rowe. The network will also premiere The Jesus Code, a forensic and archaeological study of the Bible. CNN also slated a 10-part original series from producers Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman entitled The Sixties, which will premiere in late May. 

In addition to its new programming, the network has picked up Morgan Spurlock Inside Man for another cycle in 2015 and Anthony Bourdain Parts Unknown for four cycles in 2015 and 2016. The network also has entered a development deal with the producers of Chicagoland (click here for a review) for an additional new series. CNN said that over the last year, its four most-watched series have been Anthony Bourdain Parts Unknown, Morgan Spurlock Inside Man, Chicagoland and Death Row Stories. 

At 10 p.m. ET, CNN will debut a one-hour news program called CNN Tonight, a live hour of the day’s biggest stories, with rotating hosts anchoring the program.

The new primetime lineup of original series begins this summer at 9 p.m. ET, following Erin Burnett Outfront and Anderson Cooper 360.