MediaBuyerPlanner: An NBC Universal owned-and-operated station in Chicago has plans to launch the earliest of all early shows on local TV, beginning Jan. 15.
WMAQ will air Barely Today at 4:30 a.m., writes Mediaweek. The show will be simulcast on an Emmis Communications’ rock station, WLUP-FM.
The show will combine the styles of radio and TV, creating an unscripted, discussion-driven morning show, according to the article. Content will include news stories as well as water-cooler topics and audience participation.
Morning audiences have grown over the last several years, according to Frank Whittaker, vp of news for NBC5. “We believe there is a viable audience for local news and information at 4:30 a.m.,” he is quoted as saying.
Vahe Habeshian BIO
12.27.06
