On the Fence Over More 'Today'

摘要

For a number of NBC affiliates, the network's plan to add a fourth hour to its morning powerhouse Today this fall isn't exactly a slam dunk. While many stations welcome more programming from a proven news brand, others aren't convinced it's the solution to a lackluster daytime schedule. Still, they say, it's better than what they've got now—particularly a certain soap opera. "I would do almost anything to get rid of Passions" says Alan Frank, president/CEO of Post-Newsweek Stations, which has affiliates in Houston and Detroit. "That being said, I wonder whether or not this is one step forward for Today. I was very fearful that the third hour would dilute the brand, but it's proven to be moderately okay. But this might take it one step too far."