60 Minutes

Definition

60 Minutes is a long-running television news magazine program that first aired in 1968 on CBS. Known for its investigative journalism and in-depth reporting, it has played a significant role in shaping the format and expectations of news programming, influencing how serious topics are presented on television.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 60 Minutes was created by Don Hewitt and has become one of the most iconic programs in American television history.
2. The show's signature format includes a combination of hard-hitting investigative reports, human-interest stories, and interviews with prominent figures.
3. 60 Minutes has received numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards, showcasing its impact and excellence in journalism.
4. The program often features a ticking stopwatch during segments to emphasize the urgency of the topics being discussed.
5. Over the years, 60 Minutes has influenced other news programs and established a standard for investigative reporting on television.

Review Questions

• How has 60 Minutes influenced the landscape of television journalism since its inception?
  • Since its inception in 1968, 60 Minutes has set a high standard for television journalism by combining thorough investigative reporting with compelling storytelling. Its format has encouraged other news programs to adopt similar styles of segment-based presentations that include interviews and human-interest stories. The show's focus on deep dives into complex issues has reshaped viewer expectations regarding the depth and seriousness of news coverage.
• Discuss the significance of investigative journalism as showcased by 60 Minutes in shaping public discourse.
  • Investigative journalism is pivotal to 60 Minutes, serving as a tool to uncover truth and inform the public about important issues. By exposing corruption and injustices through its reports, the program raises awareness and prompts discussions that can lead to social change. This focus on accountability has positioned 60 Minutes as a trusted source for serious news, ultimately influencing how audiences engage with current events.
• Evaluate the impact of 60 Minutes on the development of other television news formats and genres.
  • The success of 60 Minutes has had a lasting impact on the development of other television news formats by demonstrating that audiences crave in-depth analysis alongside traditional reporting. Its unique blend of investigative segments, human-interest stories, and celebrity interviews has inspired countless news magazines and docudramas. This influence extends beyond mere imitation; it has transformed viewer expectations regarding how news is presented, pushing networks to create more engaging and informative programming.

Related terms

Investigative Journalism: A form of journalism that involves in-depth research and reporting on complex issues, often exposing corruption, scandals, or injustices.

News Magazine: A television program that features a combination of news stories, interviews, and investigative reports, typically formatted as a series of segments.

Docudrama: A dramatized television program based on real events, combining elements of documentary and drama to convey factual narratives.