Opinion
Thoughtful columns and commentary pieces from The Desk contributors.
Viewpoint: MS NOW is an underwhelming, confusing cable news brand
In his latest column, Kirk Varner questions why brand consultants weren't advised, and notes this isn't the first time an NBC property went through a troublesome brand identity refresh.
By:
Kirk Varner
OPINION
Viewpoint: What does Sinclair’s “strategic review” really involve?
Sinclair CEO Chris Ripley says the company is exploring “strategic opportunities” for its Broadcast division and may separate its Ventures arm, sparking speculation over possible buys and restructuring.
By:
Kirk Varner
OPINION
Viewpoint: Injured journalists reveal press freedom threat in Trump’s America
The video of a Los Angeles police officer shooting a rubber bullet at Channel Nine reporter Lauren Tomasi is as shocking as it is revealing. In her live broadcast, Tomasi is standing to the side of a rank of police ... Read more
By:
Peter Greste
Social banter between brands gets people buying
The line between entertainment and advertising is increasingly blurred thanks to social media. People no longer just consume content, they experience it – laughing, sharing and commenting. And brands have caught on.
By:
Zoe Lee, Denitsa Dineva & Federico Mangio
Viewpoint: When Nexstar and Network cross paths
Nexstar's demand that its local news stations run segments promoting media deregulation feels a bit like the 1970s-era film "Network" come to life, writes Kirk Varner.
By:
Kirk Varner
OPINION
Viewpoint: Is the Signal app really that secure?
Signal is in the news because of a security failure; whether or not the app is "secure" depends mostly on how you use it, and why.
By:
Dr. Frederick Scholl
Viewpoint: Lawsuit filed by Voice of America journalists to determine broadcaster’s fate
While dictatorial countries celebrate its demise, VOA journalists are continuing its mission — now in the courtroom, instead of on the air.
By:
Steve Herman
Viewpoint: BBC scandal involving Gaza documentary erodes public trust
The blunder added further fuel to criticism against the public broadcaster and overshadowed what was otherwise an important film.
By:
Dorothy Byrne
Viewpoint: When it comes to local TV news, waste no opportunity
There are many chances to engage with local news audiences — and TV stations cannot afford to pass them up.
By:
Kirk Varner
OPINION
Viewpoint: Can TEGNA’s latest corporate hire save the company?
Kirk Varner wonders if a new C-suite appointment can steer TEGNA in the right direction, or if rockier times for the broadcaster are ahead.
By:
Kirk Varner
OPINION
Viewpoint: Can local TV news still matter?
In his inaugural column for the website TVND, semi-retired TV news veteran Kirk Varner makes the case that local TV news matters now more than ever.
By:
Kirk Varner
OPINION
Viewpoint: How online brain rot is undermining good storytelling
"Modern media and technology constantly remind us to preserve our memory and protect our history. However, memory is paradoxical in that it involves forgetting and absence with every act of remembrance."
By:
Masoud Kianpour