After announcing Thursday, Dec. 15 that shock-jock Howard Stern would become the new co-host of “America’s Got Talent,” NBC was slapped with a statement from the president of the Parents Television Council, an advocacy group promoting “responsible entertainment.†Continue reading after the jump.
“In an act of desperation for a flailing network, NBC has hired Howard Stern – a performer who is synonymous with shock, profanity and obscenity – as a judge on a prime-time talent competition,†stated Tim Winter. “The once-proud broadcast network has lost its way and has made it clear it holds no concern whatsoever for children and families.â€
Paul Telegdy, president of alternative and late-night programming for the peacock network, saw the announcement in a different light.
“Howard Stern’s larger-than-life personality will bring a thrilling new dynamic to ‘America’s Got Talent’ starting this summer,†he stated. “He’s a proven innovator and his track record in broadcasting is truly remarkable.â€
Stern is currently host of his own program on SiriusXM, a syndicated satellite radio network. He will continue the radio show, and to accommodate his studio location, ‘America’s Got Talent’ will now be filmed in New York City. Stern will replace Piers Morgan, who recently launched his own prime-time news program on CNN.
On his own radio show, Stern promised changes were in order for NBC’s talent showcase. The “show has a little too much nonsense,†according to Stern’s website. “When these very young children come on, I’m going to want to talk to these mothers who march them out there.â€
In summer 2011, “America’s Got Talent” finished first among the major networks in non-sports programming.
