It's only a rumor at this point, but according to Variety.com (registration required to read the full article), NBC is thinking of adding a fourth hour to the Today show. Yes, that's right, kids: more make-up tips, more cooking segments, and even more of our jolly friend Al Roker.There are two factors that might make this a reality: network affiliates are seeking cheaper 10 AM options -- syndicated programming usually airs there -- and the show is renovating and expanding their studios to accommodate a permanent kitchen, among other things. The show is also taking expanded dressing room and makeup room space. The new studio will be ready in time for Meredith Vieira's arrival in September.
All of this makes them ready to house more on-air talent if the need to expand arises. The third hour has already been shown to be a proving ground for new anchors like Natalie Morales and María Celeste Arrarás, and the fourth hour will be no different. If they do decide to go to a fourth hour, I have three words for them: More Jean Chatzky.
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
8-08-2006 @ 9:50PM
Gary Lindloff said...
I think that Meredith's arrival will bring a big boost to the show and think maybe she and Matt should do the first 3 hours with Ann, Natalie, and Al, and then the latter 2 maybe have guest contributors from local affiliates across the country come for a few days at a time to assist those 2 in the final hour. I look forward to Meredith's and Matts's hard-line news story input and know the show will take off in a highly positive mood Sept. 13th. I wish the new era would start tomorrow, I am that excited and would like to meet them all in person sometime soon should the opportunity arise.
Thank you,
Gary Lindloff
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8-08-2006 @ 10:19PM
Rich Keller said...
Broadcasting for more than two hours a day is not anything new for the show. Back in its infancy the show broadcast for five consecutive hours each day so it could be shown live in each time zone.
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