Watch Breaking the Set
- 2012
- 3 Seasons
-
7.1 (642)
Breaking the Set was a daily news program that began airing on RT America in 2012. The show was hosted by Abby Martin, an American journalist and artist who had previously worked for RT as a correspondent. Breaking the Set was known for its critical take on mainstream media and its willingness to feature guests and stories that were often ignored or marginalized by traditional news outlets.
The show was structured around a mix of in-studio commentary and interviews, documentary-style packages, and on-location reporting. It covered a wide range of topics, including politics, foreign policy, social justice issues, the environment, and media critique. Some of the show's most notable episodes tackled controversial subjects like the war on drugs, police brutality, the prison industrial complex, the military-industrial complex, and US involvement in foreign conflicts.
One of the defining features of Breaking the Set was Abby Martin's unapologetically critical and independent voice. She often took aim at both American political parties and frequently called out the hypocrisy of US foreign policy. Martin's commentary was passionate and personal, reflecting her own experiences and convictions. She was not afraid to challenge powerful figures and institutions, and her interviews frequently put her guests on the defensive.
The show's production values were also noteworthy. The program's opening sequence featured stylized graphics and animation, and its set was designed to resemble a newsroom crossed with an artist's studio. The production team frequently used visual aids like charts, graphs, and historical footage to supplement news stories and illustrate data. The show was also notable for its use of long-form interviews and in-depth reportage, which allowed it to dig deeper into complex issues than many other news programs.
Breaking the Set was not without controversy. Its critical stance towards US government policies and mainstream media often drew criticism from other news outlets and political commentators. Some accused the show of being anti-American or of uncritically promoting RT's agenda. Martin herself was subject to personal attacks, including accusations that she was a Russian propagandist. However, the show maintained a loyal following, particularly among viewers interested in alternative perspectives on current events.
In addition to its daily news programming, Breaking the Set also produced a number of longer-format specials. These included investigative reports on topics like hydraulic fracturing, human trafficking, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as well as feature stories on cultural and political topics from around the world. Martin also produced a show called "Media Roots Radio" which explored media culture and issues related to free speech.
Breaking the Set ended its run in 2015, after three seasons and over 200 episodes. The show's legacy can be seen in the growing popularity of alternative media outlets and the continued interest in voices that challenge traditional power structures. Its commitment to independent journalism and critical thinking continues to inspire many aspiring journalists and media makers.