CNN looks for answers as core mission falters
NEW YORK – When CNN first signed on, it was greeted by skepticism.
Not just doubt about Ted Turner’s vow that his all-news network would be there long enough to cover the end of the world. A bigger question resonated: Was there really enough news to fill 24 hours of airtime, day after day?
As CNN marks its 34th birthday this month, a harsh truth endures: No, there really isn’t, at least not enough to get viewers to stick around awhile.
CNN was able to finesse this in its early years since it had no competitors. Then new arrivals MSNBC and Fox News Channel faced the same dilemma. But each packed its schedule with hosts who could fashion news into opinion, guaranting like-minded audiences a reassuring TV refuge.
What television news do you watch, if any?
