"Rita Cosby: Live and Direct," premiering August 8 at 9pm on MSNBC, "will be a hard-hitting, no-nonsense news program that brings viewers stories they won't see anywhere else," this morning's press release says. "Cosby, a tireless and passionate journalist, is known for securing the most sought-after interviews. Each night, "Live and Direct" will deliver compelling stories, intriguing guests and Cosby's hands-on, won't-take-no-for-an-answer reporting."

> Rick Kaplan says: "Rita is a tenacious, seasoned journalist who continually breaks big news stories."

> Angie Dorr is the executive producer.

> TVNewser first reported the name of the show a couple of weeks ago.