I'll miss Ted Koppel after he exits "Nightline" tonight.  "Nightline" was a fantastic program, one which rewarded its viewers night after night with in-depth examinations of important news (not to mention an awareness that "important news" can occur outside the tri-state area, the Beltway, or the borders of the United States), incisive journalism, a commitment to the truth, quality storytelling, and not least a dry sense of humor.

Koppel never talked down to the viewer, assumed they wouldn't care about the news, or condescended to them in any way...a far cry from the implicit contempt for the viewer that is so prevalent in most television news now.

And I fear for the new "Nightline", which premieres tomorrow Monday.  New "Nightline" executive producer James Goldston is pleading with viewers not to prejudge the show...which certainly seems wise.  But he also told TVNewser that

I think we can present the show in a much more modern way. All the changes we're making -- a new set, taking the show into Times Square, having a more recognizable open -- all of those things, I think, will help the show.

Mmm-hmmm.  Because that's what makes compelling TV, right?  That's what makes good journalism.  They've got a new open!  A new set!  They probably have shiny flashy new graphics!  And....they're going into Times Square!!!!!! 

Ach.  They may do what they're claiming they can do -- the new show hasn't started yet, and will undoubtedly, like all new news programs, require a bit of time to find its footing -- but if those are the big talking points, it doesn't look good.  Since when does someone start watching (or keep watching) a show because of the set?