The right-wing upstart Sun News Network has lost one of its prime-time anchors just days ahead of next week’s launch.
A spokesman for the Quebecor-owned conservative news channel said Mercedes Stephenson was not a good fit for the 24-hour outlet and that the split was mutual.
The Sun columnist and military analyst had been hired to co-host a political series called Daily Brief with David Akin, the Sun’s national bureau chief in Ottawa.
Quebecor Media spokesman Serge Sasseville said the show will continue with Akin as the sole host but refused to provide details for Stephenson’s departure.
Sun News Network launches Monday with the slogan “hard news and straight talk.”
Its online promo promises a sharp edge and contrarian viewpoints, with on-air personalities including veteran journalist Brian Lilley, conservative author Ezra Levant and Winnipeg-based talk-radio host Charles Adler.
Stephenson could not immediately be reached for comment.
