CNN CEO Hired Extra Security For Firings

CNN CEO Chris Licht reportedly was forced to hire extra security to wait outside a conference room where he was working after gutting hundreds of the network's staff in a recent round of layoffs, reports The Daily Mail US. 

The cuts came Thursday and included some big names finding themselves on the chopping block, including on-air talent and contributors like Preet Bharara, Dan Merica, Alison Kosik, and Chris Cillizza. 

Licht, 51, brought in additional security guards not only to be stationed outside the executive conference room where he positioned himself, but also to follow him throughout the day, Puck reported. 

The network boss was seemingly hoping to avoid backlash or confrontations from any unruly staffers who fell victim to the cost-cutting moves. 

'Some CNN sources who passed by Licht on Thursday did notice the presence of multiple security guards standing outside of the conference room, and at least one walking around with Licht as he moved about the floor,' news outlet Puck reported.  

Licht had sat in the executive conference room throughout the day with the doors open to take questions from remaining employees about the string of cuts. 

Puck reported the 'heightened security presence on a day of layoffs suggested Licht was mindful of how raw emotions were.' 

While most of the cuts were off-camera employees, contributors, producers, and reporters like Martin Salvidge, Mary Ann Fox, and Alex Field also faced layoffs and are now forced to look for employment elsewhere.  Another major casualty of Licht's cuts was CNN spinoff HLN and its entire staff. 

Most employees reportedly did not take Licht up on his 'open invitation' to discuss the cuts, the outlet reported.  

One of the biggest cuts made Thursday included CNN's New York bureau, which is regarded as 'first on the scene' for major events like the '9/11 terrorist attacks, the Boston Marathon bombing, or the Sandy Hook school shootings.' 

The decision keep the conference doors open throughout the day, even with guards standing outside, has also received some praise from others in the field, however. 'That's actual leadership,' said one media executive who remained anonymous while speaking with Puck. 'That's not easy.' 

In a memo sent to employees Thursday, Licht called the changes made 'necessary' and said they would make the network stronger for the future.