Well, well, lovely Rita is out at MSNBC:
"Rita Cosby sounds less raspy following recent vocal-cord surgery, but MSNBC is still going to drop her when her contract expires on April 1," Page Six says confidently.
"The cable network had no comment, but insiders insist the host, who has been diligently covering the Anna Nicole Smith story, is out. Cosby has been presenting daytime specials since MSNBC canceled her prime-time show, 'Live & Direct,' last summer."
While we can all wave goodbye to Rita, maybe we should use her departure as a way to let MSNBC know what type of show/person should replace Rita.
More..
"Countdown" is one of the best and highest rated shows on MSNBC, and it would seem that MSNBC would want to duplicate, at least in part, a successful format. While having another KO on air would be wonderful, I highly doubt MSNBC is ready to become the left wing of cable news, they might, however, listen to viewers who are seeking actual BALANCE and fair reporting. So who should replace Rita? What type of show should it be?
My "dream" would be for Donahue to be returned to the air, however I am also a realist. What type of show? I think a format that allow for true debate where those who come on to "represent" either side are forced to not only stay on topic, they are forced to state truth. The show could have various pundits on, discussing issues, and then there could be a "truth" segment after the debate, or during the debate the moderator/show host could be correcting folks immediately (sort of like media matters.)
The show could also take a look at the news being reported on other stations and in the papers and noting what is/is not true.
Truth...on TV? mmmmm........I highly doubt my idea will be considered, but maybe you have a better one, and also thoughts on who should replace Rita. Personally I had a feeling she was headed out when all she was reporting on was Nicole Smith (I have had to turn MSNBC off for the last month because of her, only returning to watch KO).
So....If you were in charge, what would you do at MSNBC? And how about sending MSNBC an email with your idea? viewerservices@msnbc.com