CNN drops Eliot Spitzer’s ‘In the Arena’

CNN has canceled its television talk show hosted by former New York governor Eliot Spitzer, despite a major revamp less than six months ago.

Announcing its fall TV schedule on Wednesday, CNN said that Anderson Cooper’s nightly news program AC360 will air in the slot now occupied by Spitzer’s “In the Arena”.

Spitzer, who debuted his new show on CNN in October 2010 with Washington Post columnist Kathleen Parker, was not mentioned in the line-up. Parker left the show in February after disappointing ratings, and the show was revamped with Spitzer continuing as the main contributor.

“The new line-up showcases anchors who are experienced reporters in covering stories that span the globe,” said Ken Jautz, CNN’s executive vice president.

Piers Morgan, Wolf Blitzer, and John King remain on the schedule and will be joined by a new general news program with Erin Burnett.

Spitzer was forced to resign as New York governor in 2008 for hiring a high-priced prostitute. There has recently been speculation he might try to return to politics.

Wednesday’s CNN statement gave no reason for the decision to drop “In the Arena.”