CNN Takes Action Against Ryan Girdusky Following Offensive Remarks to Mehdi Hasan

Political analyst Ryan Girdusky is permanently barred from CNN after delivering an insensitive “beeper” remark directed at fellow panelist Mehdi Hasan, according to the network’s confirmation.

Following a tense exchange on “NewsNight With Abby Phillip,” where Girdusky insinuated Hasan had connections to terrorism, the network publicly addressed the situation … emphasizing that there is “absolutely no tolerance for racism or prejudice at CNN or in its broadcasts.”

The host of the segment, Abby Phillip, who criticized the comments during the broadcast and subsequently offered a video apology regarding the incident, supported the network’s statement and Girdusky’s dismissal.

Girdusky departed the news segment early Monday night after his contentious remark, stating to Hasan, “I hope your beeper doesn’t go off,” following Hasan expressing his support for Palestinians during a discussion on antisemitism and the inflammatory language surrounding Donald Trump‘s rally at Madison Square Garden the previous Sunday.

The comment ignited outrage at the discussion table — particularly from Hasan, who perceived Girdusky’s words as a suggestion that he “should be eliminated on live television.”

For those who may not know, Girdusky’s “beeper” remark referred to incidents where explosive devices were used remotely, targeting members of Hezbollah, a Lebanese militant organization associated with Hamas, back in September.

While Girdusky sought to justify his statement, alleging that Hasan had voiced support for Hamas — which he had not — he ultimately provided a brief apology … that many at the table did not accept.

Subsequently, Girdusky was instructed to vacate the program … which also led to an early exit from Hasan. However, Phillip clarified that CNN did not request Hasan to leave the show.