In an act of brand seppuku, Newscorp's (NYSE:NWS) Fox Business Network has disemboweled any respect it might have built since its launch in 2007 as a serious business news source by signing mumble-jock radio host Don Imus to anchor its morning slot. Beginning October 5, the simulcast of the Imus radio show will air in HD on the television network in the 6 a.m. - 9 a.m drive time. It replaces Money for Breakfast with Alexis Glick and part of Fox Business Morning, whose hosts will appear on the Imus show with market updates.
Personally, I find watching a radio show on television as exciting as watching a classroom of students practice signing. Imus, the cowboy-hatted advertising ho (his show missed the second World Trade Center collision while on a commercial break), will reportedly include more business news in the morning format, sandwiched around his marginally audible witticisms. His show, long one of the most popular in the a.m. drive slot, was cast off of CBS radio and MSNBC two years ago who he referred to the Rutgers University women's basketball team as "nappy-headed hos."
Although I don't take him seriously as a business or political pundit, I feel the same about many of the other television and radio figures that pretend expertise and insight. The difference is that at least Imus is, at times, amusing. If Fox expects him to follow the network political and financial handbook, however, it could be in for disappointment. Part of the Imus appeal is his candor and willingness to vilify anyone and any institution that offends him.
If this is successful, look for the Bob and Tom Show to replace Good Morning, America and Howard Stern to anchor the NBC Nightly News. A Stern interview of Sarah Palin might be...newsworthy.
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
9-12-2009 @ 9:18PM
ken bardin said...
wow, and he said don imus called them ho's and would rather listen to Howard stern.He is a pig and as for Palin she wouldn't let you get that close she is tuff you know it.