Happy New Year 2011

All content, unless otherwise cited, is © All Things CNN and may not be used without consent of the blog administrator.

Ratings For The Week of December 20th

1 - Special programming was aired on one night

Rating calculations are weekly averages based on nightly ratings provided by TVNewser with data by Nielsen Media Research. Numbers reflect Live and same day (DVR) data.

All content, unless otherwise cited, is © All Things CNN and may not be used without consent of the blog administrator.

This Weekend's Programming 1/1/11

SATURDAY, January 1, 2010 – NEW YEAR’S DAY


SANJAY GUPTA, MD – Airs Saturday 7:30AM – 8:00AM
CNN chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta interviews actor and advocate Michael J. Fox who speaks candidly – and sometimes humorously - about his experience with Parkinson’s disease, his foundation’s funding of a landmark study to identify biomarkers of the disease’s progression, and the need for more participation in clinical trials to more rapidly test and develop drugs that can slow or stop the progression of the disease.

FAVORITES IN FOCUS – AIRS SATURDAY 2:00PM – 3:00PM
Showcasing pieces from each of the “In Focus” series’ during the year, “Favorites in Focus” brings us the stories behind the headlines, on topics ranging from the economy to military issues to giving back. Hosted by Tom Foreman, this compelling hour of television is full of the quality storytelling the award-winning “In Focus” photojournalist team is known for.

ALMIGHTY DEBT: A BLACK IN AMERICA SPECIAL – AIRS SATURDAY 3:00PM – 5:00PM
Every leading indicator – unemployment, income, wealth, educational attainment, homeownership and foreclosures – demonstrates that the African-American financial foundation is crumbling at rates that are comparatively worse than other segments of the U.S. population. Reported by anchor and special correspondent Soledad O’Brien, and told through experiences of members of the First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens (FBCLG) in New Jersey, the first 90-minutes of this special explores how an institution central to African-American communities for generations is helping its 7,000 parishioners survive the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression. Following the documentary, a dynamic town hall discussion moderated by O’Brien will feature founder and senior pastor Bishop T.D. Jakes, clinical social worker and public relations executive Terrie Williams, syndicated columnist Michelle Singletary, FBCLG senior pastor Rev. Dr. DeForest Soaries, pollster Cornell Belcher and others.

TOXIC TOWNS, USA – A DR. SANJAY GUPTA SPECIAL – AIRS SATURDAY 5:00PM – 6:00PM
Chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta reports a year-long investigation into one town’s struggle for survival amidst 14 chemical plants. More than 8 in 10 residents of tiny Mossville, Louisiana, report serious health problems such as cancers and kidney disease and claim the toxic chemicals in the air, soil and water are making them sick. Gupta challenges manufacturers, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to explain how residents can live safely in the shadow of chemical plants that spew tons of cancer-causing agents into the atmosphere every year.

LOSING LENNON – COUNTDOWN TO MURDER – AIRS SATURDAY 6:00PM – 7:00PM
CNN anchor John Roberts traces the final three months of the life of the remarkable artist and musician John Lennon, founding member of music supergroup, The Beatles. Roberts traces a detailed timeline of the events leading up to Lennon’s assassination by Mark David Chapman outside of Lennon’s apartment building, the Dakota, in New York City on December 8, 2010. The documentary includes new interviews with John Lennon’s oldest son Julian Lennon, record producer/friend Jack Douglas, exclusive audio interviews of Chapman and his wife, as well as the medical team that tried to save Lennon.

IN AMERICA: GARY & TONY HAVE A BABY – AIRS SATURDAY 7:00PM – 8:00PM
Gary Spino and Tony Brown have fought for gay rights all of their lives, but these days one of the most radical things a gay person can do is form a traditional family -- and that’s precisely what they want. Soledad O’Brien follows Gary and Tony on their struggle to have a baby that has a biological and legal connection to both of them. They spend a small fortune hiring an egg donor and a surrogate, and face a string of court battles. But all the medical miracles and legal maneuvering can’t guarantee the approval of the people around them… or even a baby.

HER NAME WAS STEVEN – AIRS SATURDAY 8:00PM – 10:00PM
Steven Stanton had a loving wife, beloved child, and an influential job as the City Manager of Largo, Florida. Then, the local newspaper revealed his decision live life as a woman. That revelation led to a raucous press conference followed by a televised City Council vote to remove Stanton as City Manager. Suddenly, Steven Stanton was thrust into a glaring national spotlight, while at the same time beginning a long, emotional and physical journey to become Susan Stanton. This two-hour film follows Stanton’s two-year transition through self-discovery, setbacks, challenges and self-acceptance.

TALIBAN – AIRS SATURDAY AT 10:00PM – 11:00PM
CNN anchor Anderson Cooper interviews Norwegian journalist, author and film maker Paul Refsdal about his unprecedented journey behind enemy lines in Afghanistan. No Western journalist has ever spent as much time with the Taliban, with as unrestricted access, as Refsdal. Refsdal’s film and Cooper’s incisive interview form this documentary of a band of unrelenting and unrepentant Taliban fighters at war, preparing weapons, coordinating attacks, praying, and interacting with their families. It’s a journey that ended in Refsdal’s own kidnapping and harrowing escape.

ATLANTA CHILD MURDERS – AIRS SATURDAY 11:00PM – 1:00AM
Almost thirty years after the murders of more than 25 black children, teens and young adults, CNN anchor and special correspondent Soledad O’Brien investigates the nearly two-year siege of fear that gripped the city of Atlanta. Although Wayne Williams continues to profess his innocence from behind bars, with his arrest and conviction, he was described as both a “monster” – and the nation’s first Black serial killer. In his first television interview in 10 years, O’Brien has exclusive access to Williams and examines new evidence to offer viewers a new look at the persistent doubts, and decide for themselves who was responsible for all those lost young lives.


SUNDAY, January 2, 2010

LOSING LENNON – COUNTDOWN TO MURDER – AIRS SUNDAY 1:00AM – 2:00AM AND 5:00AM – 6:00AM
CNN anchor John Roberts traces the final three months of the life of the remarkable artist and musician John Lennon, founding member of music supergroup, The Beatles. Roberts traces a detailed timeline of the events leading up to Lennon’s assassination by Mark David Chapman outside of Lennon’s apartment building, the Dakota, in New York City on December 8, 2010. The documentary includes new interviews with John Lennon’s oldest son Julian Lennon, record producer/friend Jack Douglas, exclusive audio interviews of Chapman and his wife, as well as the medical team that tried to save Lennon.

TALIBAN – AIRS SUNDAY AT 2:00AM – 3:00AM
CNN anchor Anderson Cooper interviews Norwegian journalist, author and film maker Paul Refsdal about his unprecedented journey behind enemy lines in Afghanistan. No Western journalist has ever spent as much time with the Taliban, with as unrestricted access, as Refsdal. Refsdal’s film and Cooper’s incisive interview form this documentary of a band of unrelenting and unrepentant Taliban fighters at war, preparing weapons, coordinating attacks, praying, and interacting with their families. It’s a journey that ended in Refsdal’s own kidnapping and harrowing escape.

ATLANTA CHILD MURDERS – AIRS SUNDAY 3:00AM – 5:00AM
Almost thirty years after the murders of more than 25 black children, teens and young adults, CNN anchor and special correspondent Soledad O’Brien investigates the nearly two-year siege of fear that gripped the city of Atlanta. Although Wayne Williams continues to profess his innocence from behind bars, with his arrest and conviction, he was described as both a “monster” – and the nation’s first Black serial killer. In his first television interview in 10 years, O’Brien has exclusive access to Williams and examines new evidence to offer viewers a new look at the persistent doubts, and decide for themselves who was responsible for all those lost young lives.

SANJAY GUPTA, MD – Airs Sunday 7:30AM – 8:00AM
CNN chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta interviews actor and advocate Michael J. Fox who speaks candidly – and sometimes humorously - about his experience with Parkinson’s disease, his foundation’s funding of a landmark study to identify biomarkers of the disease’s progression, and the need for more participation in clinical trials to more rapidly test and develop drugs that can slow or stop the progression of the disease.

STATE OF THE UNION WITH CANDY CROWLEY – Airs Sunday 9:00AM – 10:00AM, NOON – 1:00PM
Topic: GOP politics, the government reform committee
Guest: Rep. Darrell Issa, R-CA

Guest anchor: Ed Henry

HOW TO LEAD – A SPECIAL EDITION OF FAREED ZAKARIA GPS – Airs Sunday 10:00AM – 11:00AM and 1:00PM – 2:00PM
In these times of crisis, America needs leaders who are not just good, but great. CNN’s Fareed Zakaria interviews titans in business, government, and academia for insights on power, persuasion, command, and decision making. Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen, corporate turnaround king Lou Gerstner, Yale University president and economist Rick Levin, and former New Jersey Governor Christine Todd Whitman talk to Zakaria about how to lead, and what qualities it takes to do it right.

RELIABLE SOURCES – Airs 11:00AM – NOON
Topic: New book, today’s media culture, press coverage of President Obama
Guest: Dick Cavett, Former Talk Show Host, "The Dick Cavett Show"

Host: Howard Kurtz

All content, unless otherwise cited, is © All Things CNN and may not be used without consent of the blog administrator.

Guess It's Official

TJ Holmes Tweeted this morning that he won't be working weekends again for a while. He's going to take over for John Roberts' as co-anchor on American Morning beginning Monday January 3rd. No permanent anchor has been announced by CNN yet but Holmes is a strong contender. Congratulations to TJ!

All content, unless otherwise cited, is © All Things CNN and may not be used without consent of the blog administrator.

Merry Christmas 2010

All content, unless otherwise cited, is © All Things CNN and may not be used without consent of the blog administrator.

This Weekend's Programming 12/25/10

SATURDAY, December 25, 2010 – CHRISTMAS DAY


CNN PRESENTS: AFTER JESUS – Airs Saturday 1:00am – 3:00am and 4:00am – 6:00am
As two billion Christians worldwide prepare for the celebration of Christmas, CNN examines archeological evidence and insights from renowned authorities on the ancient church to explore how a faith challenged by the martyrdom of its earliest followers and apostles, could also survive controversy and vigorous debate over its orthodoxy, to become the world’s largest religion. Narrated by Liam Neeson, AFTER JESUS explores the sometimes surprising early history of Christianity, and the challenges and struggles of the early church.


SANJAY GUPTA, MD – Airs Saturday 7:30AM – 8:00AM
CNN chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta interviews Dr. William Gahl, who leads an elite team of doctors and researchers at the National Institutes of Health who try to solve real medical mysteries and save patients lives. Also, Dr. Gupta profiles Dr. Alfredo Quinones-Hinojosa whose extraordinary life’s journey has taken him from migrant farm worker to prominent neurosurgeon.


CNN PRESENTS: THE TWO MARYS – Airs Saturday 2:00PM – 3:00PM
Sigourney Weaver narrates this documentary of the biographies of the "Founding Mothers" of Christianity – and what the Virgin Mary and Mary Magdalene mean to believers today. CNN Presents traveled to Galilee, the northernmost province of Israel, where Jesus, and Christianity, was born to visit archeological digs, Jerusalem, and popular shrines in Rome and Fatima, Lourdes and Vézelay to show the great influence of the two women closest to Jesus. Scholars grapple with the reality of who these women were and how their roles continue to change the world's largest faith.


CNN PRESENTS: THE MYSTERY OF JESUS – Airs Saturday 3:00PM – 4:00PM
Exploring the stories and questions surrounding Jesus, CNN Presents uses research techniques, medical modeling, and analysis from biblical scholars to try to answer: When was Jesus born – and was it in Bethlehem? What did he look like? And how did he really die? From Nazareth to Galilee to Jerusalem, this documentary, narrated by Liam Neeson, recreates Jesus’ largely unknown early life as a young Jewish boy, and then probes the mysteries of his betrayal, trial, execution, and the miracle of his resurrection.


GIVING IN FOCUS – Airs Saturday 4:00PM – 5:00PM
In honor of the holidays, CNN’s photojournalists share visually compelling stories to highlight the giving season. The latest CNN “In Focus” series, hosted by Tom Foreman, looks at ways people are giving of their time, their resources and their love; in ways, both creative and traditional, that are needed more than ever. In the next project from the award-winning, multi-platform “In Focus” team, we highlight acts of generosity that can be found not only at the holidays, but throughout the year.


BIG STARS, BIG GIVING - Airs Saturday 5:00PM – 6:00PM and 8:00PM – 9:00PM; Sunday 5:00AM – 6:00AM
CNN national correspondent Alina Cho looks at celebrity philanthropy and how big stars can have a big impact. Cho interviews Halle Berry, Justin Bieber, Nicole Kidman, Julianne Moore, and Edward Norton on the causes that have become their passions and how viewers can get involved.


CNN HEROES: AN ALL-STAR TRIBUTE – Airs Saturday 6:00PM – 8:00PM, 10:00PM – 12:00AM
Hosted by CNN anchor Anderson Cooper from the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, CNN and a Blue Ribbon Panel including Muhammad Ali, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Patricia Heaton, Ricky Martin, Apolo Anton Ohno and Holly Robinson Peete honor ten everyday people doing extraordinary things that are changing the world. Until Dec. 31, Facebook users can support the work of the individuals named among the Top 10 CNN Heroes by clicking the “Donate Now” tab on the CNN Heroes Facebook page, or via the CNN Heroes donation module on the CNN and AC360 online pages. The All Star Tribute includes performances by Bon Jovi and Sugarland and appearances by Halle Berry, Demi Moore, Eva Longoria Parker, LL COOL J and Renee Zellweger, and more.

SUNDAY, December 26, 2010


CNN HEROES: AN ALL-STAR TRIBUTE – Airs Sunday 1:00AM – 3:00AM
Hosted by CNN anchor Anderson Cooper from the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, CNN and a Blue Ribbon Panel including Muhammad Ali, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Patricia Heaton, Ricky Martin, Apolo Anton Ohno and Holly Robinson Peete honor ten everyday people doing extraordinary things that are changing the world. Until Dec. 31, Facebook users can support the work of the individuals named among the Top 10 CNN Heroes by clicking the “Donate Now” tab on the CNN Heroes Facebook page, or via the CNN Heroes donation module on the CNN and AC360 online pages. The All Star Tribute includes performances by Bon Jovi and Sugarland and appearances by Halle Berry, Demi Moore, Eva Longoria Parker, LL COOL J and Renee Zellweger, and more.

BIG STARS, BIG GIVING - Airs Sunday 4:00AM – 5:00AM
CNN national correspondent Alina Cho looks at celebrity philanthropy and how big stars can have a big impact. Cho interviews Halle Berry, Justin Bieber, Nicole Kidman, Julianne Moore, and Edward Norton on the causes that have become their passions and how viewers can get involved.


SANJAY GUPTA, MD – Airs Sunday 7:30AM – 8:00AM
CNN chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta interviews Dr. William Gahl, who leads an elite team of doctors and researchers at the National Institutes of Health who try to solve real medical mysteries and save patients lives. Also, Dr. Gupta profiles Dr. Alfredo Quinones-Hinojosa whose extraordinary life’s journey has taken him from migrant farm worker to prominent neurosurgeon.


STATE OF THE UNION WITH CANDY CROWLEY – Airs Sunday 9:00AM – 10:00AM, NOON – 1:00PM

Topic: Lame Duck Congress; President’s Agenda for 2011
Guest: Robert Gibbs, White House Press Secretary

Topic: Homeland Security; War in Afghanistan
Guest: Janet Napolitano, Secretary of Homeland Security

Topic: Homeland Security; War in Afghanistan
Guest: Gen. Michael Hayden (Ret.), Former CIA Director
Guest: Vice Adm. Mike McConnell (Ret.), Former Director of National Intelligence

Anchor: Candy Crowley


RESTORING THE AMERICAN DREAM – A FAREED ZAKARIA GPS SPECIAL- Airs Sunday 10:00am – 11:00am and 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Host Fareed Zakaria interviews former IBM chairman and CEO Lou Gerstner, Google, Inc. chairman/CEO Eric Schmidt, Coca Cola Company chairman/CEO Muhtar Kent, and Alcoa, Inc. chairman/CEO Klaus Kleinfeld about how technology, globalization and the recession brought about America’s unacceptable unemployment rate…and how America can leverage education and innovation to bring good jobs back to the U.S. This special is a companion to a recent TIME magazine cover story.


RELIABLE SOURCES – Airs 11:00AM – NOON

Topic: Larry King Bids Farewell
Guest: Larry King, host of CNN’s Larry King Live
Guest: Wendy Walker, senior executive producer, Larry King Live; author, “Producer”

Topic: Year in Review
Guest: Lauren Ashburn, former managing editor, USA Today Live
Guest: Steve Roberts, syndicated columnist; professor of media and public affairs, The George Washington University
Guest: Amy Holmes, political analyst; co-host, Talk Radio Network's America's Morning News
Guest: Thomas Frank, columnist, Harper’s Magazine

Host: Howard Kurtz

HOW TO LEAD – A SPECIAL EDITION OF FAREED ZAKARIA GPS – Airs Sunday 8:00PM – 9:00PM, 11:00PM – 12:00AM and 2:00AM – 3:00AM
In these times of crisis, America needs leaders who are not just good, but great. CNN’s Fareed Zakaria interviews titans in business, government, and academia for insights on power, persuasion, command, and decision making. Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen, corporate turnaround king Lou Gerstner, Yale University president and economist Rick Levin, and former New Jersey Governor Christine Todd Whitman talk to Zakaria about how to lead, and what qualities it takes to do it right.

All content, unless otherwise cited, is © All Things CNN and may not be used without consent of the blog administrator.

Ratings For The Week of December 13th

1 - Special programming was aired one night during the week

Rating calculations are weekly averages based on nightly ratings provided by TVNewser with data by Nielsen Media Research. Numbers reflect Live and same day (DVR) data.

All content, unless otherwise cited, is © All Things CNN and may not be used without consent of the blog administrator.

From the Desk of Ken Jautz

D.C. Fishbowl is reporting:

CNN staffers received an internal memo from Ken Jautz this afternoon (Wednesday 12/22). In it, Jautz announced that CNN will be combining its international and domestic news desks. Tony Maddox, Executive V.P. and Managing Director of CNN International, will oversee the operation. A new managing editor will come on board in 2011.

The memo from Jautz:

As we refine CNN’s editorial output, we want to make sure that our news gathering infrastructure is best positioned to serve the needs of all of our platforms and services. We have elected to implement a key recommendation of the One CNN project and combine our international and domestic news gathering desks and our worldwide bureaus into one group. Tony Maddox will oversee the combined group, which will service CNN, CNNI, cnn.com and all other editorial units and platforms. This, coupled with the arrival of a new Managing Editor in 2011, will help further elevate our editorial mission across platforms, leverage our global reach more appropriately, and help with communication among all of our shows, networks and services. This change will take effect as of January 1st, 2011. There will be group and individual meetings in the new year as we clarify reporting lines and responsibilities. We very much appreciate your continued support and can-do attitude as we work through these changes which will best position us for success. In particular, we would like to take this opportunity to thank Edith Chapin for her sterling work overseeing domestic news gathering on an interim basis in recent months.

All content, unless otherwise cited, is © All Things CNN and may not be used without consent of the blog administrator.

Fareed Zakaria Special on Sunday 12/26

CNN’s Fareed Zakaria Hosts Primetime Special on Leading During Troubled Times on Sunday, Dec. 26

In these times of crisis, America needs leaders who are not just good, but great. CNN’s Fareed Zakaria interviews titans in business, government, and academia for insights on power, persuasion, command, and decision making. Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen, corporate turnaround king Lou Gerstner, Yale University president and economist Rick Levin, and former New Jersey Governor Christine Todd Whitman talk to Zakaria about how to lead, and what qualities it takes to do it right.

How to Lead – A Special Edition of Fareed Zakaria GPS debuts Sunday, Dec. 26 on CNN/U.S. at 8:00pm ET and PT. The special airs at 8:00am ET on Sunday, Jan. 2 on CNN International.


All content, unless otherwise cited, is © All Things CNN and may not be used without consent of the blog administrator.

This Weekend's Programming

SATURDAY, December 18, 2010


SANJAY GUPTA, MD – Airs Saturday 7:30AM – 8:00AM
CNN chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta interviews Nancy Ann DeParle, the director of the White House Office of Health Reform about the Administration’s interpretations about this development – and other looming challenges to implementation of the new law. CNN senior legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin weighs in on the legal challenges as well. Dr. Gupta also interviews 16 year-old Kiwane Clay, who overcame family financial strains obtain dialysis to manage his diabetes, and Dr. Gupta dissects the new child nutrition bill – and the healthy changes that could be coming to kid’s lunches.


THE SITUATION ROOM WITH WOLF BLITZER – Airs Saturday 6:00PM – 7:00PM

Topic: Federal Reserve
Guest: Rep. Ron Paul (R-TX)

Topic: Wolf Blitzer Travels to North Korea with Gov. Bill Richardson
Guest: Gov. Bill Richardson, New Mexico (Interview from Beijing, China)

Anchor: Wolf Blitzer (with guest anchor Suzanne Malveaux)


A SOLDIER’S STORY- Airs Saturday 8:00PM – 9:00PM, 11:00PM – 12:00AM, 2:00AM – 3:00AM
CNN’s Jason Carroll follows three people from different walks of life, beginning with the moment they pack their bags through each chapter to becoming soldiers. Taking full advantage of unprecedented Pentagon access, Carroll goes behind-the-scenes to capture the day-to-day lives, triumphs and stumbles – during their transformation from recruit to soldier. PFC Will McLain, from Rosamond, California, enlisted to escape the small town where he grew up. Latricia Rose, a young mother from Columbus, Georgia, sees the army as a way of providing for her family during tough economic times. And, Sgt. First Class Randy Shorter is a father of two and heading back into battle to finish the job he started during his last deployment. These are some of the personal stories behind the deadly war in Afghanistan.


DOWNFALL: THE TIGER WOODS SCANDAL – Airs Saturday 10:00PM – 10:30PM, 1:00AM – 1:30AM, 4:00AM – 4:30AM
He was the most famous athlete in the world; on pace to shatter golf’s most prestigious title. But one year ago, Tiger Wood’s carefully crafted image came crashing down. CNN’s TJ Holmes talks exclusively to Tiger’s brother, Earl Woods Jr, and alleged mistress, adult entertainment actress Veronica Daniels for insights into the life of the world’s first billion dollar athlete.


SUNDAY, December 19, 2010


SANJAY GUPTA, MD – Airs Sunday 7:30AM – 8:00AM
CNN chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta interviews Nancy Ann DeParle, the director of the White House Office of Health Reform about the Administration’s interpretations about this development – and other looming challenges to implementation of the new law. CNN senior legal analyst Jeffrey Toobin weighs in on the legal challenges as well. Dr. Gupta also interviews 16 year-old Kiwane Clay, who overcame family financial strains obtain dialysis to manage his diabetes, and Dr. Gupta dissects the new child nutrition bill – and the healthy changes that could be coming to kid’s lunches.



STATE OF THE UNION WITH CANDY CROWLEY – Airs LIVE Sunday 9:00AM – 10:00AM, NOON – 1:00PM

Topic: GOP Agenda
EXCLUSIVE GUEST: Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Senate Minority Leader

Topic: Analysis of the Afghanistan Review
Guest: Amb. Zalmay Khalilzad, former U.S. Ambassador to Afghanistan and to Iraq
Guest: Adm. William Fallon (Ret.), former commander, U.S. Central Command
Guest: Gen. Richard Myers (Ret.), former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

Topic: Struggles of the U.S. Postal System
Guest: Fredric Rolando, President, National Association of Letter Carriers

Anchor: Candy Crowley



FAREED ZAKARIA GPS – Airs Sunday 10:00AM – 11:00AM and 1:00PM – 2:00PM

Topic: Britain’s austerity budget – will it save the UK or tear it apart? Euro troubles; Bush tax cuts
Guest: George Osborne, Chancellor of the Exchequer for the U.K. (Conservative Party)

Topic: Britain’s austerity budget – will it work; Brown’s role in global financial crisis; Bush and Obama administrations; Bush tax cuts
Guest: Gordon Brown, former Prime Minister, U.K (Labour Party); former Chancellor of the Exchequer for the U.K.

Topic: Remembering Richard Holbrooke; Afghanistan and Pakistan after Holbrooke
Guest: Leslie Gelb, PhD, president emeritus and board senior fellow for the Council on Foreign Relations
Guest: Vali Nasr, PhD, U.S. State Department
Guest: Joe Klein, senior writer and columnist, TIME magazine

Anchor: Fareed Zakaria



RELIABLE SOURCES – Airs LIVE 11:00AM – NOON

Topic: Coverage of the Tax Cut Compromise; Palin on GMA; Boehner’s Emotional Interviews
Guest: Katrina Vanden Heuvel, editor, The Nation
Guest: Ramesh Ponnuru, senior editor, National Review
Guest: Alex Wagner, White House correspondent, Politics Daily

Topic: Race and Journalism
Guest: Soledad O’Brien, anchor and special correspondent, CNN

Topic: How Facebook is Changing the Nature of Journalism
Guest: Ian Shapira, The Washington Post

Host: Howard Kurtz


A SOLDIER’S STORY- Airs Sunday 8:00PM – 9:00PM, 11:00PM – 12:00AM, 2:00AM – 3:00AM
CNN’s Jason Carroll follows three people from different walks of life, beginning with the moment they pack their bags through each chapter to becoming soldiers. Taking full advantage of unprecedented Pentagon access, Carroll goes behind-the-scenes to capture the day-to-day lives, triumphs and stumbles – during their transformation from recruit to soldier. PFC Will McLain, from Rosamond, California, enlisted to escape the small town where he grew up. Latricia Rose, a young mother from Columbus, Georgia, sees the army as a way of providing for her family during tough economic times. And, Sgt. First Class Randy Shorter is a father of two and heading back into battle to finish the job he started during his last deployment. These are some of the personal stories behind the deadly war in Afghanistan.


DOWNFALL: THE TIGER WOODS SCANDAL – Airs Sunday 10:30PM – 11:00PM; 1:30AM – 2:00AM
He was the most famous athlete in the world; on pace to shatter golf’s most prestigious title. But one year ago, Tiger Wood’s carefully crafted image came crashing down. CNN’s TJ Holmes talks exclusively to Tiger’s brother, Earl Woods Jr, and alleged mistress, adult entertainment actress Veronica Daniels for insights into the life of the world’s first billion dollar athlete.

All content, unless otherwise cited, is © All Things CNN and may not be used without consent of the blog administrator.

Jon Stewart Hits CNN Hard

The Daily Show took another swipe at CNN and Piers Morgan this week. Take a look:

Also the American Journalism Review had some interesting theories about CNN's future. If you have the time you might enjoy the read. Here are a few paragraphs, you can read more by following the link.

Will that change? Not likely. Klein's replacement, Ken Jautz, is a former Associated Press reporter and CNN veteran, which might sound reassuring to in-house proponents of big-J journalism. But Jautz made his mark as an executive by transforming what used to be Headline News into the gossip channel HLN. And he told the AP after being named to the top job that "the traditional, straightforward, facts-only approach" probably won't work in prime time. "People are interested in something in addition to the facts: context, analysis or, yes, opinion."

CNN has come a long way in 30 years. Once derided as Chicken Noodle News, it came of age during the first Persian Gulf War and proved that Ted Turner wasn't completely nuts when he dreamed up the first all-news TV channel. When I worked there briefly in the early '90s, the mantra "the news is the star" didn't seem laughable in prime time. Sadly, it does now.

All content, unless otherwise cited, is © All Things CNN and may not be used without consent of the blog administrator.

Ratings For The Week of December 6th

1 - Special programming was aired one night during the week

Rating calculations are weekly averages based on nightly ratings provided by TVNewser with data by Nielsen Media Research. Numbers reflect Live and same day (DVR) data.

Here's also an article we received on CNN's viewership:

CNN Reaches 10 Million More Viewers Than Fox News and 13 Million More Than MSNBC in 2010

HLN’s Morning Express Has Best Year Ever;

Beats MSNBC’s Morning Joe for the Year 2010

CNN is the No. 1 TV News Brand Online, in Mobile and in Social Media

CNN

In 2010, CNN reached more viewers than any other cable news network, averaging 96.4 million monthly viewers -- 10 million more than Fox News Channel (85.7 million) and 13 million more than MSNBC (83.3 million).[Data through Nov.]

CNN continues to demonstrate the strength of its breaking news coverage, attracting cable news’ largest P25-54 audience during the first 24 hours of the Chilean Miner Rescue and registering the most growth of any cable news network during continuing coverage of the Haiti Earthquake and BP oil spill in the Gulf.

Throughout 2010, CNN topped MSNBC in daytime non-opinion programming (9a-5p) by 71% among total viewers (502k vs. 294k) and 64% among adults 25-54 (133k vs. 81k). Each hour from 9a-4p, MSNBC ranked either fourth or fifth among its cable news competitors in the key P25-54 demographic. [Data through Dec. 12.]

CNN Heroes, an All-Star Tribute to Everyday People Changing the World, reached a cumulative audience of nearly 16 million viewers over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Traffic to CNN Heroes content on CNN.com achieved more than 10.3 million page views, and more than 1.2 million video streams. (Source: Omniture SiteCatalyst, 10/04/10 – 11/28/10 and 10/05/09 – 11/29/09)

HLN

HLN’s Morning Express with Robin Meade increased its audience in 2010 to its highest year on record and out-delivered MSNBC’s Morning Joeby 51% among 25-54 viewers (178k vs. 118k). This is the first time in HLN’s history that Morning Express has topped MSNBC’s Morning Joe for 12 consecutive months. Morning Express delivered HLN’s best year ever from 6a-10a among both total viewers (315k) and P25-54 (178k).

HLN’s The Joy Behar Show is the only cable news program at 9pm to grow its audience in 2010, up 7% in total viewers (P2+).

Among P25-54, HLN enjoyed a substantial advantage over MSNBC’s non-opinion weekday program block (9am-5pm), topping the network by 28% (104k vs. 81k). HLN ranked above MSNBC all hours from 9am to 4pm in the demographic.

CNN DIGITAL NETWORK

In 2010, the CNN Digital Network was No. 1 in unique audience, usage minutes, page views, mobile and other key metrics, beating Fox News and MSNBC Digital.

Traffic

The CNN Network Placed No. 1 among all TV News Sites in several key metrics in 2010:

• No. 1 in Unique Audience: With 66 million monthly unique visitors, the CNN Network is six times greater than Fox News Online, five times greater than ABC News Digital’s audience, more than three times greater than CBS News Online and beat MSNBC Digital by 33%.
• No. 1 in Usage Minutes and Page Views: With more than 2.1 billion usage minutes per month and 2.3 billion page views, the CNN Network was far and away the most used TV News Site, beating out MSNBC Digital’s time spent by 58% and more than doubling their page views. Total time spent and page views for the CNN Network were also more than 20 times larger than that for Fox News Online, CBS News Online and ABC News Digital.

(Source: comScore Media Metrix, May-November 2010. See Source Note Below.)

Mobile

CNN Digital is No. 1 in Mobile in News and Current Events for 2010 and has been for the past 47 months.

• With 14.6 million monthly unique visitors to its mobile site in 2010, CNN Digital beat the nearest competitor, Fox News Digital, by 90%. (Source: Nielsen Mobile MediaView – Jan – Oct. 2010)
• CNN App Downloads: Prior to launching the CNN App for iPad, CNN had nearly 2 million downloads for the CNN App for iPhone and iPod Touch worldwide. Additionally, the average monthly usage for the CNN App available in the U.S. has been 96%. (Oct. 09-Nov. 10)

Social Media

CNN was the Most-Followed News Brand in Social Media in 2010

· iReport: iReport increased its registered users base to 715,000, with nearly 238,000 new registered users signing up in 2010. There were also 149,000 submissions in 2010 the most popular of which was “Searching For Loved Ones In Haiti” generating 8,000 submissions. To date iReporters have submitted over 520,000 stories.

• On Facebook: With more than 1.5 million fans to date, CNN topped the two closest competitors: Fox News by 47,000 fans and NPR by more than 136,000 fans. (Source: Facebook Insights through Dec. 13.)
• On Twitter: @CNN and @CNNBRK have a combined 5.3 million followers, 96% greater than New York Times 2.7 million, more than twice MSNBC’s 2.1 million followers and more than 12 times greater than Fox New’s followers. (Source: Twitter.com Analytics 01/01/10 – 12/13/10. MSNBC includes @MSNBC, @MSNBCBRK, @Breakingnews; Fox News includes: @foxnews, Foxnewsbrk)
• More Users Turn to CNN During Breaking News: During the week of the Chilean Miners Rescue, CNN had nearly 48,000 likes/comments on it’s official fan page, a 129% increase over a typical week; during the week of the Midterm Elections, CNN saw 35,000 likes/recommends, a 68% increase.(Source: Facebook Insights through December 13. Benchmark week based on weeks of 4/12/10-10/10/10)

** NOTE - CNN Digital Source: comScore Media Metrix, May-November 2010. Note that comScore changed their methodology in 2010 to allow properties to pass their Omniture census level data through to comScore to be included as part of the accountancy of their official published usage data. The May-November 2010 data used in the above claims reflects a time period when all properties referenced were switched over to the new methodology, except ABC News Digital, which switched over in October. Only October and November were used for ABC News Digital’s comparisons. Fox News has not switched over to the new methodology.

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Jamie Kraft Leaving CNN, John Roberts Leaving AM

Last week we blogged the news that John Roberts has been named a national correspondent for CNN and is heading to Atlanta. This article in Bloomberg Business Week mentions the direction that Ken Jautz has in mind for American Morning and also adds information about Jamie Kraft heading to NBC. We wish both Kraft and Roberts great success in their new endeavors.

John Roberts is out as a CNN morning anchor with the network's new boss saying he wants a more "upbeat" show.
CNN Chief Executive Ken Jautz said Tuesday that he wants a bigger mix of stories and a faster pace in the morning.
"American Morning" generally finishes fourth in the cable morning ratings behind Fox News Channel, MSNBC and CNN's sister station, HLN.
Roberts came to CNN from CBS News. CNN says Roberts has requested a reporting assignment that will move him from New York to the network's Atlanta headquarters. His fiancee, CNN anchor Kyra Phillips, lives there.

It was also announced Tuesday that executive producer Jamie Kraft is leaving CNN for a job at NBC News.

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Piers on Piers

The following account of the CNN party at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in London was written by Piers Morgan and posted at Mail Online. The event was held on Saturday December 11th.


CNN threw a lavish party at the Mandarin Oriental hotel this evening to launch my new show, Piers Morgan Tonight.

Jim Walton, the worldwide president of the company, revealed in his welcome speech that the potential global audience for the show could be over 300 million people - causing audible gasps of horror from my numerous 'small pond' TV rivals in the room.

'We listened to your phone calls, we read your emails,' he said, deadpan, 'and we decided to do what you asked, and take Piers out of Britain!'

A quip that provoked quite shockingly disloyal cheers.

Read more »

This Weekend's Special Programming

Saturday, December 11, 2010

7:30am – 8:00am SANJAY GUPTA MD
8:00pm – 9:00pm TALIBAN
11:00pm – 12:00am TALIBAN

Sunday, December 12, 2010

2:00am – 3:00am TALIBAN
7:30am – 8:00am SANJAY GUPTA MD
8:00pm – 9:00pm TALIBAN
11:00pm – 12:00am TALIBAN
Monday, December 13, 2010

2:00am – 3:00am TALIBAN

Program Descriptions:

SANJAY GUPTA MD

CNN chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta interviews U.S. Secretary of Health & Human Services Kathleen Sebelius for National Influenza Vaccination Week, speaks to a fighter pilot about claustrophobia and panic attacks, and famed neurologist Oliver Sacks, MD, about his new book, The Mind’s Eye. Sacks’ 1973 book, Awakenings, was adapted to a 1990 film starring Robert DeNiro.

TALIBAN

CNN anchor Anderson Cooper interviews Norwegian journalist, author and film maker Paul Refsdal about his unprecedented journey behind enemy lines in Afghanistan. No Western journalist has ever spent as much time with the Taliban, with as unrestricted access, as Refsdal. Refsdal’s film and Cooper’s incisive interview form this documentary of a band of unrelenting and unrepentant Taliban fighters at war, preparing weapons, coordinating attacks, praying, and interacting with their families. It’s a journey that ended in Refsdal’s own kidnapping and harrowing escape.

All content, unless otherwise cited, is © All Things CNN and may not be used without consent of the blog administrator.

Ratings For the Week Of November 29th

1 - Special programming was aired on one night during the week

Rating calculations are weekly averages based on nightly ratings provided by TVNewser with data by Nielsen Media Research. Numbers reflect Live and same day (DVR) data.

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Dana Bash Wins Dirksen Award

CNN's Senior Congressional Correspondent Dana Bash has won the 2010 Dirksen Award for Distinguished Coverage of Congress, the National Press Foundation announced Wednesday.

"These reporters produced good, tight coverage of members of Congress. Their work informed the public about how the system works," the foundation judges said in a statement regarding this year's three recipients.

The NPF specifically noted Bash's coverage of Congressional earmarks and Senatorial "holds" as exemplary. Senatorial holds are a practice by which one Senator can halt the approval process of a presidential appointee in order to gain leverage for unrelated matters.

The award will be presented on March 1, 2011 at the 28th annual NPF Awards Dinner, and carry a cash prize. When asked about the award, Bash said "I am humbled and honored to receive this award. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the fabulous group of journalists I'm privileged to work with on CNN's Capitol Hill team". This is the second time Bash has won this award.

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Reports: John Roberts leaving American Morning; Tony Harris leaving CNN

Mediaite quoting the New York Post...

Will the new year bring a slew of shakeups at CNN, now under new Ken Jautz-led management? The New York Post thinks so.

The Murdoch-owned tab says the head-rolling and chair-shifting will being in January, with American Morning co-host John Roberts first on the list to pick up a new gig, at least according to the Post’s “insiders:”

John Roberts is finalizing a contract to leave “American Morning” and start a new life as a CNN national correspondent in At lanta, where his pregnant fiancée, Kyra Phillips, anchors “CNN Newsroom.” Insiders speculate that handsome newsreader T.J. Holmes, who filled in for Roberts yesterday, is one of the favorites to take over Roberts’ role and anchor alongside Kiran Chetry. “T.J. Holmes has always been groomed for a bigger gig,” an insider told us.

The Posties also suggest it’s the end of the CNN road for CNN daytime anchor Tony Harris, who will reportedly “announce to his staff…that he’s leaving the network after six years.”

CNN told the Post it would not comment on talent contracts.

More later, no doubt...

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Erica Hill Talks Early Show with Reliable Sources

Former CNN'er Erica Hill joined Howard Kurtz on Sunday's Reliable Sources to talk about her time at CNN and her future at CBS's The Early Show.

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This Weekend's Special Programming

Saturday, December 04, 2010
7:30am – 8:00am SANJAY GUPTA MD
8:00pm – 9:00pm LOSING LENNON – COUNTDOWN TO MURDER
10:00pm – 10:30pm JOHN LENNON – LIVING IN AMERICA
10:30pm – 11:00pm CNN Newsroom
11:00pm – 12:00am LOSING LENNON – COUNTDOWN TO MURDER
Sunday, December 05, 2010
2:00am – 3:00am LOSING LENNON – COUNTDOWN TO MURDER
7:30am – 8:00am SANJAY GUPTA MD
8:00pm – 9:00pm LOSING LENNON – COUNTDOWN TO MURDER
10:00pm – 10:30pm CNN Newsroom
10:30pm – 11:00pm JOHN LENNON – LIVING IN AMERICA
11:00pm – 12:00am LOSING LENNON – COUNTDOWN TO MURDER
Monday, December 06, 2010
2:00am – 3:00am LOSING LENNON – COUNTDOWN TO MURDER


PROGRAM DESCRIPTIONS:

SANJAY GUPTA MD
Half of all men and one-third of all women will develop cancer during their lifetimes. CNN chief medical correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta reports from Los Angeles at the STAND UP TO CANCER telethon, where celebrities, journalists, musicians, and athletes gathered to raise money and resources last September to the cause of defeating cancer through innovative research, education, and advocacy. Gupta also interviews cancer survivor and film producer Laura Ziskin, a co-founder of the telethon.
LOSING LENNON – COUNTDOWN TO MURDER
CNN anchor John Roberts traces the final three months of the life of the remarkable artist and musician John Lennon, founding member of music supergroup, The Beatles. Roberts traces a detailed timeline of the events leading up to Lennon’s assassination by Mark David Chapman outside of Lennon’s apartment building, the Dakota, in New York City on December 8, 1980. The documentary includes new interviews with John Lennon’s oldest son Julian Lennon, second wife Yoko Ono, record producer/friend Jack Douglas, exclusive audio interviews of Chapman and his wife, as well as the medical team that tried to save Lennon.

JOHN LENNON – LIVING IN AMERICA
In the last decade of his life John Lennon left the Beatles and moved to New York with his new wife, Yoko Ono, to begin a new chapter in his life. Leaving behind the mania of being a Beatle, Lennon struck out in a new direction musically, personally and politically. But it was a rocky road for the one-time Beatle. CNN’s John Roberts tracks Lennon’s American journey from fame to the edge of despair and back again. Lennon was finally finding peace when a murderous fan’s bullet cut his life short.

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