Koppel Criticizes Network News

[SOURCE: TVWeek, AUTHOR: James Hibberd]
Facing reporters at the Television Critics Association's press tour, former "Nightline" anchor Ted Koppel said his new position at Discovery Channel will allow him to explore smart and serious news topics, and he suggested that commercial networks such as his former ABC home are devaluing such coverage. "What's been happening over the past 20 years or so, with the advent of all the cable outlets, is the competition has become so fierce that all news divisions and all networks are focusing on particular segments of the audience, and with an emphasis on youthful demographics," Mr. Koppel said. "News divisions are focusing on -- not necessarily less serious stories -- but staying away from some serious stories..... I think there is still a great deal of room for great news coverage on television. And if it isn't going to be available at the commercial networks, I think we've found a home where it will be welcome."
http://www.tvweek.com/news.cms?newsId=9186
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