Is Glenn Beck the Future of Television News?
Welcome to the “fear chamber” or “doom room,” home to Fox News Channel’s political commentator and television news host, Glenn Beck. Beck has become a media phenomenon. The radio DJ-turned-television host has attracted a remarkable following, resulting in a popular radio show, three New York Times best-selling books and a television program that has made him the object of scorn and praise alike. No scripts or teleprompters seem to be necessary in the “doom room.” Beck’s off-the-cuff, extemporaneous and emotive style have rocketed his 5 pm, EST, television news show on the Fox News Channel to the third-most-watched cable news show running over all. If the medium of television has the unique ability to capture viewers’ attention, then for better or worse, Glenn Beck has mastered the medium. And as the ratings make clear, audiences find his show to be compelling, entertaining and engaging. What exactly makes Glenn Beck’s show so appealing to his fans? Like Larry “Lonesome” Rhodes in Elia