Boston Globe Editorial: Back Off TV Criticism

The Boston Globe today said those who would criticize recent television changes, such as Eliot Spitzer taking a prime time CNN slot, need to back off and allow new ideas to emerge on the tube.

“CNN, overhauling its evening lineup, recently announced a prime-time show co-hosted by former New York Governor Eliot Spitzer and Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Kathleen Parker,” the editorial stated. “The blowback couldn't have been stronger if the network had chosen Tony Hayward and Rielle Hunter. Yes, Spitzer will forever be marred by his use of prostitutes, but the demise of his political career has freed him up to be far more candid than the average moonlighting politico. Parker, a voice of common-sense conservatism, is notable for her willingness to break with the GOP herd; in 2008, she wrote that Sarah Palin lacked important qualifications for national office.”

It also noted: " ... it was a breath of fresh air to see Christiane Amanpour, the legendary foreign correspondent, move into the anchor chair of ABC's 'This Week,' single-handedly broadening the perspective of the Sunday-morning interview shows. Of course, she, too, was swatted down by some capital critics, led by Tom Shales of The Washington Post, for lacking the proper political chops. Spitzer, Parker, and Amanpour represent a legitimate attempt by TV news executives to sell substance and offer fresh perspectives. More than just ratings are riding on their success."

We shall see.