By: Valerie Milano
Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 1/3/23 – Yesterday, Amna Nawaz and Geoff Bennett took on their roles as the new anchors for PBS NewsHour, succeeding longtime solo-anchor Judy Woodruff. The news came out in November via the President of NewsHour Production, Sharon Rockafella. The transition leaves longtime viewers wondering what the pair will add to the nightly newscast.
Award-winning reporter and former NewsHour substitute Amna Nawaz previously served as a correspondent for ABC’s breaking news coverage and foreign correspondent at NBC News. During a press release, Nawaz was asked how she feels about being named co-anchor; she has this to say;
“It’s never been more important for people to have access to news and information they trust, and the entire NewsHour team strives relentlessly towards that goal every day. I am honored to be part of this mission, to work with colleagues I admire and adore, and to take on this new role alongside Geoff as we help write the next chapter in NewsHour’s story. Today is a day I never imagined when I began my journalism career years ago or while growing up as a first-generation Muslim Pakistani-American. I’m grateful, humbled, and excited for what’s ahead.” (Via NewsHour)
Bennett has had his fair share of experience as a journalist covering five presidential elections, working for NPR as an editor, and coving congress and the white house. He joined NewsHour in 2022 from NBC News, serving as a substitute anchor for MSNBC. Bennett is also the recipient of the Edward R. Murrow Award for his use of journalism to service and impact the community. He was also asked how it felt to be placed in the co-anchor position. He replied;
“I’m proud to work with such a stellar group of journalists in pursuit of a shared mission — providing reliable reporting, solid storytelling, and sharp analysis of the most important issues of the day. It’s why PBS NewsHour is one of television’s most trusted and respected news programs and why I’m honored and excited to partner with Amna in building on its rich legacy.” (Via NewsHour)
The newscast will be undergoing changes, taking a more modern approach to journalism by adopting digital media forums such as TikTok and YouTube. Although NewsHour enjoys a large linear audience, executives knew it was imperative to connect with new generations of viewers who consume all their news online.
Along with their new positions, Bennett and Nawaz will continue contributing to NBC News.
Click on the link below to watch this duo in action,