Brian Stelter returning to CNN after dramatic ousting by network's old boss: 'Surprise!'

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Ousted CNN host Brian Stelter announced he's returning to the network after the leadership that handed him a pink slip in 2022 was similarly shown the door.

"I am thrilled to share that I am returning as the lead author of CNN’s Reliable Sourcesnewsletter, the digest I founded in 2015," Stelter wrote in a "surprise" message to "Reliable Sources" readers on Tuesday. "I'm returning to CNN in a brand new role as Chief Media Analyst, which means I'll be appearing on air, developing digital content, and helming this newsletter."

Stelter said his return to CNN, which officially starts Sept. 9, won't be the same as his previous stint at the network, insisting "because I am different."

BRIAN STELTER: A RETROSPECTIVE OF CNN'S OUSTED MEDIA REPORTER

"The media industry has matured, CNN has evolved, and I have changed a lot since I signed off two years ago," Stelter wrote. "After 20+ years as a news junkie, I changed my habits and tuned out for a bit. I also changed my vantage point, moving from Manhattan to a horse farm near one of Donald Trump's golf clubs. I experienced the news more like an everyday consumer, and in doing so, I learned a whole lot about the attention economy and the information ecosystem. I’m looking forward to sharing what I learned with you."

Stelter suggested in Tuesday's announcement that while he's returning to CNN's "Reliable Sources"