CNN had hoped a Crossfire-like exchange between the former New York governor and conservative columnist Kathleen Parker would help restore its prime-time ratings, but it didn't happen. So they tried shedding Parker and the forced camaraderie, but apparently that didn't help.

The change takes effect on August 8, and CNN said it was still exploring its options with Spitzer, but he makes it sound like his time there is over.

"We engaged serious people in conversations about national and global issues in a way that was informative and challenging," he told TVNewser through a spokesperson. "I believe that we provided diverse and valuable perspectives during the show’s tenure. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at CNN.”