Today Show finally officially announced this morning that Ann Curry will be stepping away from the anchor desk and pursuing more journalistic endeavors inside NBC News. As an avid Today Show viewer, Ann never made a strong impression as a co-host, neither jelling with Matt Lauer new carrying well the softer, humanistic pieces. It was simply not a good fit and created some cringe-worthy interviews. Frankly, not all Ann's fault, wrong person for the wrong segment.
But Ann isn't the only problem with the Today Show. Look no further than their weather person Al Roker and there lies additional blame. His personality overwhelms the broadcast, his segments too much about him and less about the weather. Among his signature bits, "Sunday, Sunday, Sunday" and " These are my people" are annoying at best, but over the top mainly. He is in fact, best enjoyed when he plays less bombastic and loud. Willard Scott may have been the role model for Al, but Willard never seemed to overwhelm the show like Al always tries to do.
Lastly, changes in the hosting should also go along with changes in the format back to a more newsy approach in the first hour, less so in the second hour. Sure an interview with a guy that screams on a roller coaster is cute but not worthy for a first hour newscast. There must be something better to put on. Pick your segments more wisely and put the human interest and celebrity spotting into hour number 2.
Change for the Today may not be easy but it sure is necessary. The moment people become disenchanted they break away from their routine and try another show. Winning back viewers will not be easy, especially if they have found turned away. Make us like you again, make us respect what you are telling us, and treat us to stories that define best what you want to become. The Today Show has a long and storied history, let's get back to what makes it click.
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