Zakka Jacob: The ‘thinking man’s anchor’ redefining prime-time news

Zakka Jacob has built a distinctive reputation in Indian television journalism at a time when primetime debates are often defined by noise rather than nuance. Known for his calm demeanour, sharp questioning and analytical approach, Jacob has emerged as one of the most respected editorial voices in English news television, earning the moniker “the thinking man’s anchor.”

A prominent television journalist and editorial leader with over two decades of experience, Jacob is set to join Times Now as Managing Editor in April 2026, marking a significant transition in his career following a long and influential tenure at CNN-News18.

Read: Zakka Jacob quits News18, to join Times Now as Managing Editor

Jacob most recently served as Senior Anchor and Group Foreign Affairs Editor at CNN-News18. He had earlier held the role of Managing Editor of the network from November 2020 until December 2025, before moving into a position that allowed him to focus more closely on journalism and on-air programming.

During his time at the network, he became widely recognised as the face of flagship shows such as Brass Tacks and Face Off @ 9, programmes that stood out for measured conversations and policy-focused debates in an increasingly polarised television environment.

His anchoring style, marked by restraint, preparation and pointed questioning, has helped him carve a niche within the crowded primetime ecosystem, often dominated by high-decibel panel discussions.

Before joining CNN-News18, Jacob had a rare international stint as a senior anchor with China Central Television (CCTV) in Beijing between 2011 and 2014, becoming the first South Asian face on Chinese national television. The experience added a global perspective to his journalism and shaped his coverage of foreign affairs and geopolitics.

He began his career in 2001, working with All India Radio before moving into television journalism with Sun News. His move to New Delhi with Headlines Today marked an early milestone, where he became the youngest male anchor on Indian news television at the time.

He was also named among exchange4media’s 40 Under 40 influential media professionals, reflecting his growing influence within the industry.

Educated as an engineer, Jacob holds a Bachelor of Engineering degree from the University of Madras, graduating in 2003. Over the years, he has combined analytical rigour with newsroom experience to shape a journalistic style rooted in context, clarity and international awareness.

As he prepares to take on his new role at Times Now, Jacob’s move is being closely watched within media circles, signalling a leadership shift at a time when television news is navigating questions around credibility, format innovation and audience trust.