Since its launch four years ago, The First has been a kind of witness protection program channel for a murderer’s row of talking heads, including some whose once high-flying careers were grounded by scandal. Recently, however, The First’s fortunes brightened, and further rightened. (Image: Pixabay)

Can Chris Wallace’s reputation as the down-the-middle guy at Fox News, the flagship of right wing media, help CNN shed the network’s left-leaning image and tack to the political center? But a better bet is that in a couple of years, when his contract is up, there won’t be anyone talking to Wallace on CNN.

Who other than Rupert Murdoch should be the immoral center of the year’s best real-life “Succession” docuseries? “The Murdochs: Empire of Influence” aired on CNN and it became essential viewing for anyone interested in the astonishing power of partisan media, where facts are relative and making millions and wielding influence is everything.

The impact of the late night talk shows like “The Late Show” on political discourse will continue to be huge despite some softness in the genre. Colbert (above right), Fallon and Kimmel have tens of millions of followers on Twitter and Instagram, as well as millions of subscribers to their YouTube channels that magnify their real-time impact exponentially.

Oprah may still believe that her silence speaks volumes, still speaking up is what’s necessary when democracy is under assault.

Can producer James Goldston’s show-biz instincts turbo-charge the prime-time hearing?

“Bitter Southerner” is generating revenue through membership, a book club and selling limited edition items in its virtual “General Store.”

Bill Maher has proven that being a politically incorrect, libertarian atheist is a solid business model.

The man behind the scenes when CBS ruled broadcast journalism.