After the dust settles, I’m sure I’ll have a blog about the current Tonight Show controversy—the Leno-Conan battle that has drawn the attention of Letterman and Kimmel as well.
What a mess!
With acknowledgement to “The Tonight Show”’s illustrious history, we should remember that the “Today” show predates its late night counterpart by two years.
It was on this date in 1952 that NBC introduced viewers to a morning show that combined news and features. The first host, Dave Garroway---was a laid back star, perfect for the time of day.
Here’s an early clip of the Today Show with Garroway at the helm:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFRrKJHZG8o
“Today” was the first of it’s genre—and dominated the ratings until ABC launched “Good Morning America”, which overtook the NBC pioneer in the late 80’s. The fight was on, but “Today” retook the Nielson Ratings lead in December of 1995---and has won every week since!
Hosts over the years have included John Chancellor, Hugh Downs, Barbara Walters, Tom Brokaw, Bryant Gumbell, Jane Pauley, Katie Couric—and even Florence Henderson! Current lead hosts are Matt Lauer and Meredith Viera. In 1953, the show even featured a chimp named J. Fred Muggs!
Nearly 5 million daily viewers can’t be wrong—Today—whomever the hosts—remains #1!
If you’d like my blog in your box weekdays, just let me know: tim.moore@citcomm.com
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