CNN Paves Way for Campbell Brown
October 16, 2007 3:04 PM
I see that CNN will move “Lou Dobbs Tonight” from its 6 p.m. slot to 7 p.m. to provide a strong lead-in for former NBC anchor Campbell Brown, who joins CNN Nov. 5.
Part of the musical chairs game afoot also involves the creation of a three-hour block of “The Situation Room,” leading into Dobbs’ new and later time slot.
Brown will be filling the low-rated, 8 p.m. slot vacated by Paula Zahn. “Lou Dobbs Tonight” is CNN’s highest-rated show, second only to “Larry King Live,” which airs at 9 p.m., so Brown will be buffered by the net’s two most popular shows.
The New York Times says CNN is taking a risk, potentially losing rabid viewers for Dobbs who is passionate about immigration issues, still a red-hot topic for him, and apparently many Americans.
Personally, I don’t think it’s a risk at all. Viewers might actually prefer the later time for Dobbs, and will find him if the change is well promoted.
So is CNN risking too much in order to seemingly buffer Brown? I say not at all. Dobbs’ ratings will increase, is my bet. Who watches television at 6 p.m. (EST)?
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Comments (3)
I am glad to know that Lou will be moving to 7:PM, I never miss his show but I have to record it at six and watch it later now I'll get to have my cup of coffee while I watch Lou.
Posted by Jessica Mullins | October 17, 2007 1:00 PM
I am glad to know that Lou will be moving to 7:PM, I never miss his show but I have to record it at six and watch it later now I'll get to have my cup of coffee while I watch Lou.
Posted by Jessica Mullins | October 17, 2007 1:00 PM
Hi Jessica,
I think the time period is better, too for him. Do you really drink coffee that late?
Thanks for the post,
Marianne
Posted by Marianne Paskowski | October 17, 2007 3:19 PM