Thursday, March 13, 2008

Rant Mode On


So, I'm watching the 10 pm newscast on WSIL-TV 3. Their fourth story tonight begins...."We're learning more t0night about the call girl at the center of the prostitution scandal involving New York Governor Elliot Spitzer..."

Excuse me?

This is the fourth most important story for the Southern Illinois viewing audience?

Keep in mind the Spitzer story first broke four days earlier.

I realize there is interest in such scandals. But until TV news makes an effort to be more relevant to viewers' everyday lives, audience interest will continue to wane.

I'm not trying to skewer channel 3...I'm sure plenty of other stations were doing the same thing.

9 comments:

Unknown said...

Although I completely agree that the Spitser story is not local, but think that it is a interesting story. I think that people these days, no matter where you live, love to hear about these stories of important figures falling from the top. It is like an episode of Law & Order enfolding in front of their eyes. This may also be a sad commentary on Americas concern with the world around them. To be honest most people would rather hear about the details of a different state Governor's sex scandal rather than a local bill that will be passed regarding their health or safety. Sad, but true.

BRUNO_03 said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
BRUNO_03 said...

I was in Chicago watching t.v. when this story broke. All I can think of is that I'm glad it wasn't our governor. A friend of mine in the insurance bond business was happy that it happened to this guy because he was an opponent of some bill that affected by buddies company's business and has been a "saint" in the public eye. Me personally, I got tired of hearing about it and I'm not too concerned with learning more about a call girl. However, some people do enjoy hearing about scandals. If it is still be ing reported fine, but when is enough...enough.

Jill said...

I understand that the Spitzer story is interesting, but I think the coverage is a little ridiculous from all stations, not just WSIL. I think people need to get over it and focus on more important issues that affect our society. Then again, people thirst for these kind of stories. However, I think the focus needs to be on other issues, rather than a man getting an evening that was way too expensive.

Anonymous said...

It's pieces like this that Judy Muller talked about in her book "Now This." She says that hard news is going soft, for the public has a short attention span. Who do we blame for stories like this? The stations and reporters? Or the public who is interested in them?

Jenny Power

Anonymous said...

It's probably a lost cause to expect news to be relevant to the everday person since waht makes ratings is reporting on what people don't experience everyday, which is scandals, pop culture trends and celebutant breakdowns

Unknown said...

This is interesting. People like to get involved in other people's personal lives and this is a perfect a perfect example. I was watching this with my Dad...

Anonymous said...

Quite right! It is good thought. I call for active discussion.

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