US TV
Former CNN chief Rick Kaplan will replace Erik Sorenson as president of MSNBC, NBC confirmed today.
MSNBC trails both Fox News and CNN in ratings numbers.
NBC News president Neal Shapiro said:
"I worked with Rick for 13 years at ABC News and I know firsthand the energy and innovation that is his trademark. He knows every aspect of the news business, from cable to broadcast, and brings an incomparable wealth of knowledge and experience to the position."
Kaplan was the president of CNN's domestic television channel from 1997 to 2000, but his tenure at the channel is generally viewed as not being particularly successful. It was during this time, when the number-one rated CNN faced competition from new channels FNC and MSNBC, that Kaplan implemented more destination programming - regular shows designed to attract viewers even during slow news periods. Four years after his departure, most of those shows - such as CNN NewsStand, have been axed.
From 1979-1997, Kaplan held a variety of "high-level positions" at the news division of ABC. He also rejoined ABC in June 2003.
MSNBC's current chief, Erik Sorenson, will take up a role in NBC News working on "long-term strategic projects."
MSNBC trails both Fox News and CNN in ratings numbers.
NBC News president Neal Shapiro said:
"I worked with Rick for 13 years at ABC News and I know firsthand the energy and innovation that is his trademark. He knows every aspect of the news business, from cable to broadcast, and brings an incomparable wealth of knowledge and experience to the position."
Kaplan was the president of CNN's domestic television channel from 1997 to 2000, but his tenure at the channel is generally viewed as not being particularly successful. It was during this time, when the number-one rated CNN faced competition from new channels FNC and MSNBC, that Kaplan implemented more destination programming - regular shows designed to attract viewers even during slow news periods. Four years after his departure, most of those shows - such as CNN NewsStand, have been axed.
From 1979-1997, Kaplan held a variety of "high-level positions" at the news division of ABC. He also rejoined ABC in June 2003.
MSNBC's current chief, Erik Sorenson, will take up a role in NBC News working on "long-term strategic projects."
More: US TV
Tube Talk
'Freaks and Geeks': Tube Talk GoldTube Talk Gold heads back to the '80s and remembers Freaks and Geeks.
2012-13 Season
John Stamos to star in 'Little Brother'The former Full House actor will star in the comedy pilot Little Brother.
US TV Interviews
'Celebrity Apprentice' Donald Trump Q&ADonald Trump teases the new season of Celebrity Apprentice.
US TV Ratings
'Vampire Diaries' soars to 3m for The CWThe Vampire Diaries and The Secret Circle perform well for The CW.
