PressEthic

Katie Couric is being considered for anchor chair of the CBS Evening News. The details of her big decision are on CNN.

I’d love to see a woman in the CBS evening anchor chair. The network is obviously trying to make a ratings move by bringing over someone who has helped make the Today show the top rated morning show on television. But taken out of her morning show context, I’m not sure she could be as effective.

Ms. Couric actually started as a political correspondent. Check out her resume on the MSNBC site. It’s very impressive. But then take a look at her resume from IMDb.com. When viewers tune in to the Today show, I’d be curious about which version of Katie Couric they’re tuning in for. I’ve seen her interview political figures, but I’ve also seen her dressed for Halloween. The latter sticks out. Maybe she’s too pop culture for the requisite stiffness of an evening anchor? When I heard she was up for the job, I was a little surprised.

This article from the NY Times questions whether two rather unknown anchors can take over for Peter Jennings and give the ABC evening news broadcast a shot of botox. I’d say they have a good chance of success. Since they’re pretty much unknown (despite their anchor experience) we’re getting to know them fresh. Mr. Woodruff started as a translator in Tianamen Square and Ms. Vargas’ resume includes coverage of the attacks in Beslan, so they’re off to a good start.

The new hosts of these evening news broadcasts have had people talking for months. They want younger viewers. They want to revive ratings. I’m sure plenty of people will watch to see the new anchors in action. Maybe they'lll convince viewers to stick around.