HLN

Headline News is the sister network of CNN. Originally launched as CNN2, it quickly became Headline News. The channel offers round the clock news, showing headlines every 15 minutes, unlike CNN it has no news related programmes, instead constant news updates from the CNN Atlanta studio headquarters.

CNN2 – 1981

Headline News

1988 – 1992

Further examples of opening and closing sequences and promotions.

Examples of Headline News content graphics

1992 – 1996

A new look introduced late 1992 using the same set, but new graphics and theme tunes. Now the titles have been revamped and are true 3D, with the same icon themes of globes, clocks, camera lenses and a tv matrix.

In 1996 Headline News introduces more authorative theme music and an onscreen lower third ‘ticker’.

1997 – 2001

In 1997 the CNN brand is re-introduced to the Headline News title. A few years later in 1999, another relaunch, with a new set and graphics package. In 1999, CNN attempted its first relaunch of Headline News. The ticker got a little larger, and the channel divided its coverage up to four colour-coded dayparts: Early Watch (mornings, yellow) Second Watch (middays, red), Third Watch (evenings, green), and Late Watch (overnights, blue). Graphics got refined but simpler, and a whole new set was introduced…

2001 – 2004

On August 6th 2001 Headline News introduces a radical new image change. Aimed at a younger audience, the new format features the screen split into 3 sections, and looks more interactive, much like a web browser. Bold colours, images, and text designed by Joni McLane of Y1080 in Atlanta, working with the CNN Graphics Department and Turner Studios, now bombard the viewer in this decade for audiences gaining as much information as possible, such as additional stories, sport, weather and features.

Example of content graphics

-2004