And why, pray tell, should you be watching this show?
1—George Stroumboulopoulos is a fantastic host. Witty, laid back, funny, introspective, incisive…he’s the opposite of every other anchor position on TV news — and he doesn’t wear a tie! And thank god for that…I thought I was the only non-tie person left in the world.
2—The content is a solid blend of current events and wackiness, but it’s all presented with a serenity reminiscent of the style of the late, lamented Johnny Carson (rest in peace, Mr. Carson). It’s edgy without being in-your-face, and it’s informative without being deadly dull.
3—The minimalist set is cool. It makes me think that the CBC Sunday crew sold out, getting rid of their own minimalist set. Black is back, baby!
4—It can be exceptionally funny. Last week, they had “Battle of the Bigots” — a Christian, Islamic and Jewish comedian each had their say about why their religion was the most intolerant towards gay people…with a follow up discussion right after. Cheeky, nose-tweaking, yet surprisingly informative.
5—Only the CBC seems to put this kind of stuff out on TV. For those people who think the Mothercorp is just a bloated, boring rendez-vous for old people, think again. There is some excellent content coming out of the CBC these days…it’s a renaissance that started with Canada - A People’s History, and it continues to this day.
I could continue to babble, but you don’t have to take my word for it. Tune in this evening to Newsworld at 8pm and judge George’s show for yourself. You’ll be surprised, you’ll be entertained, and you’ll be informed. What more can you ask from the news?
At least it’s not the farcical madness of FOX News…
