CBS Producer: Notion Katie ‘Wings It’ For Interviews ‘Absurd’

‘She’s a sponge’

Joe Hagan‘s 6,000-word New York profile of Katie Couric is generating quite a reaction. Here’s an alleged Couric producer’s take:

—–Original Message—–
From: Anonymous Tips [mailto:fishbowlny@mediabistro.com]
Sent: Monday, July 09, 2007 4:53 PM
To: tvnewser@mediabistro.com
Subject: FISHBOWLNY Tip sent 7/9/2007 3:52:55 PM

This notion that Katie “wings it” for interviews is absurd. Katie prides herself on her preparation for everything, especially for interviews… And she’s a sponge. I’m always amazed at her ability to retain every piece of research she’s read. As for questions, Katie always insists on seeing a suggested list in advance and goes through them with me prior to the interview. If she goes off the page, it’s because the suggestions on that list prompted more thoughtful, more important questions in her mind. That’s why she’s on the air, and not me. — CBS Producer

EARLIER:

Did Katie Couric Slap A Staffer?

Create a social media strategy, launch your campaign, and track the results in our Social Media Marketing Boot Camp starting February 16. The online event and workshop will feature speakers including The Onion‘s Baratunde Thurston (left), Facebook’s Morin Oluwole, and bitly’s Tim Devane. Register now.