Cbs’ Olympics Broadcasts Respectable

Mon., Feb. 16, 1998

John Martin New York Times Syndicate

As CBS heads down the home stretch with its final week of coverage of the XVIII Winter Olympics Games in Nagano, it’s time for this judge to post his score.

I give CBS about a 5.8 - a respectable mark, though not a perfect 6.0 score.

The overall design of the broadcasts is splendid. There’s a pleasant look to the graphic presentation, the venue commentators are well-prepared, and Jim Nance deserves a gold medal for his even-toned and friendly manner as prime-time host.

One of this year’s new features, live coverage of skating practice sessions, is a real treat for skating fans and an opportunity for CBS’ experts to talk at length about the competitors.

On the down side, CBS has continued the unpopular practice of jumping from event to event and often trying the patience of fans by stretching out the most-watched events - most notably, skating - over three hours of the nightly telecasts.

CBS also plays around with its mix of live and taped events. Last week, viewers waited most of the night to see Picabo Street win the gold medal in the women’s Super G downhill, which CBS finally aired nearly 24 hours after the event took place.

Highlight

“20/20,” ABC at 9: A report on an 11-year-old whom Michigan prosecutors want tried for murder as an adult.

Cable Calls

“Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show,” USA tonight at 8 and Tuesday at 8: From Madison Square Garden comes the dog world’s most prestigious competition. Tonight, it’s judging of the working terriers, toy and non-sporting breeds. Tomorrow night, watch the sporting, hound and herding breeds, plus Best of Show.

Also, tonight at 7 Harry Anderson hosts “Dog Tales,” which looks at dogs and their owners. Included are profiles of TV dogs Eddie (“Frasier”) and Stinky and Nunzio (“Dharma & Greg”).

“Biography,” A&E at 9: One of America’s most beloved humorists is profiled in “Art Buchwald: The Wit of Washington.”

“Daria,” MTV at 10:30: In the second-season premiere, the brainy 16-year-old outsider and her friend Jane attempt to use art to explain the meaning of life.

Talk Time

“Tonight,” NBC at 11:35: Pigs and wiener dogs race and model Veronica Webb.

“Late Show With David Letterman,” CBS at 12:05: Actor Tom Selleck and Heather Locklear (“Melrose Place”).

“Politically Incorrect With Bill Maher,” ABC at 12:05 a.m.: Robert Townsend, ABC News correspondent Farai Chideya and writer Tucker Carlson.

“Late Night With Conan O’Brien,” NBC at 12:35 a.m.: Actor Bill Murray, Ally Walker (“Profiler”) and musical guest Patti Smith. Repeat.

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