5.3 / 10 (based on 153 reviews)
Former Clinton White House staffer and current co-anchor of ABC’s weekday morning news show “Good Morning America,” George Stephanopoulos offers a look at current events with a focus on the politics of the day. Each week’s show includes interviews with top newsmakers (including some of the nation’s top political leaders) as well as a roundtable discussion, usually featuring journalists from ABC and other news organizations, of the week’s happenings. Since 2008, the program has broadcast from a studio at the Newseum in Washington, D.C.
Genre: News, Talk-Show
Main Cast: George Stephanopoulos, Martha Raddatz, Matthew Dowd, Chris Christie
Creators: Roone Arledge
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5 seasons, 535 episodes, 60-minute runtime
Shows Most Like This Week (1996)
Deadline: White House (2017)
6.7 / 10 (based on 275 reviews)
Veteran news reporter Nicolle Wallace anchors this new show covering all things politics.
Genre: Talk-Show
Main Cast: Nicolle Wallace, John Heilemann, Phil Rucker, Ken Dilanian
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5 seasons, 504 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
The ReidOut (2020)
3.5 / 10 (based on 396 reviews)
After years as a substitute host, Joy Reid finally gets her own primetime weeknight show on MSNBC. The ReidOut will air Monday through Friday and feature a unique look at the day’s top stories.
Genre: News, Talk-Show
Main Cast: Joy-Ann Reid, Ari Melber, Jason Johnson, Michael Steele
Creators:
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2 seasons, 287 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
State of the Union with Jake Tapper & Dana Bash (2021)
5 / 10 (based on 22 reviews)
Jake Tapper and Dana Bash bring together major news-makers, analysts and experts to tackle pressing domestic issues and diplomacy on the global stage.
Genre: Talk-Show
Main Cast: Jake Tapper, Dana Bash, Asa Hutchinson, Anthony Fauci
Creators: Dana Bash, Jake Tapper
Directors:
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1 season, 32 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime
Late Night with Seth Meyers (2014)
6.3 / 10 (based on 7550 reviews)
Seth Meyers hosts a late-night talk show.
Genre: Comedy, Talk-Show
Main Cast: Seth Meyers, Fred Armisen, The 8G Band, Ben Warheit
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9 seasons, 1249 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
The world of television is vast and varied, offering everything from high-octane action series to thought-provoking documentaries. Among the myriad of shows, there’s one that, despite not being the usual fodder for prime-time chatter, has carved its niche and maintained a steady presence since its inception in 1996. This show is “This Week.”
The Genesis of “This Week”
Back in 1996, the television landscape was markedly different from what it is today. The internet was in its infancy, social media was non-existent, and TV was one of the primary sources for news and political discourse. It was in this context that “This Week” was born.
The show was designed to be a platform for discussing current events, with a focus on politics. From the outset, it aimed to dissect the week’s most significant news stories, offering insights and analyses that went beyond the surface level. It wasn’t just about reporting what happened; it was about understanding why it happened and what it meant in the larger context.
The Format
One of the defining features of “This Week” is its format. The show typically opens with a brief overview of the week’s news, setting the stage for the in-depth discussions that follow.
The Panel
At its core is a panel discussion, featuring a mix of journalists, politicians, and experts. This diversity of perspectives is one of the show’s strengths, allowing for a rich and nuanced exploration of issues.
The Interviews
In addition to the panel, “This Week” often includes one-on-one interviews with key figures. These segments are particularly valuable, offering insights straight from the horse’s mouth, so to speak.
The Closing Remarks
Each episode wraps up with closing remarks from the host, often reflecting on the discussions and offering a personal take on the week’s events.
The Hosts
Over the years, “This Week” has seen several hosts, each bringing their unique style to the show. The role of the host is crucial, not just in steering the discussions, but also in setting the tone for the show. A good host can make complex issues accessible and engaging, a skill that has been a hallmark of “This Week.”
Memorable Moments
Throughout its run, “This Week” has had its share of memorable moments. From heated debates that captured the nation’s attention to poignant interviews that offered a glimpse into the minds of key figures, the show has consistently delivered compelling television.
One such moment came during the 2008 presidential election, when “This Week” hosted a series of discussions that were widely praised for their depth and fairness. These discussions were not only informative but also played a role in shaping public opinion, highlighting the show’s influence.
The Impact
The impact of “This Week” extends beyond its immediate audience. By fostering informed discussions and offering a platform for diverse viewpoints, the show contributes to a more informed public discourse. In an era of soundbites and sensationalism, this is no small feat.
Moreover, “This Week” has also been a training ground for journalists and politicians alike. Many of its regular panelists have gone on to have significant careers, a testament to the show’s role in the broader media and political landscape.
Challenges and Criticisms
No show is without its challenges and criticisms, and “This Week” is no exception. One of the recurring criticisms has been its perceived bias, a common accusation leveled against many news and political commentary shows. The show has also faced challenges in adapting to the changing media landscape, particularly the rise of digital media and the shift towards on-demand consumption.
Despite these challenges, “This Week” has managed to stay relevant, thanks in part to its commitment to quality journalism and its willingness to evolve. Recent years have seen the show embrace digital platforms, offering content beyond the traditional TV broadcast.
The Future
Looking ahead, the future of “This Week” seems promising. As long as there are news stories to dissect and issues to debate, there will be a place for shows like “This Week.” Its legacy is not just in the episodes that have aired but in the conversations it has sparked and the minds it has informed.
In a world where the pace of news can be overwhelming, “This Week” offers a moment of reflection, a chance to pause and think critically about the world we live in. For that reason alone, it’s a show worth watching.
In conclusion, “This Week” stands as a testament to the enduring value of thoughtful, informed discussion. In an age of information overload, its measured approach to news analysis is both refreshing and necessary. Whether you’re a political junkie or a casual viewer, “This Week” offers something of value, a reminder of the power of television to inform, engage, and inspire.