Watch Up
- 2015
-
6.5 (49)
Up was a morning news and political talk show that aired on MSNBC from 2015 to 2018. Hosted by Steve Kornacki, the program aimed to provide viewers with a comprehensive look at the week's biggest news stories and political developments, while also featuring in-depth discussions and analysis with expert guests.
The show's format typically consisted of a mix of news roundups, interviews, and panels. During the news roundups, Kornacki and his guests would discuss the top headlines of the day, often focused on political developments in Washington, D.C. and around the world. The interviews would feature conversations with politicians, journalists, and other newsmakers, delving into their perspectives on current events and issues.
One of the show's signature segments was the #UPpers panel, which brought together a rotating group of journalists, activists, and other experts to delve into the week's news and offer their insights. Some of the recurring #UPpers included Daniella Gibbs Léger, Executive Vice President of Communications and Strategy at American Progress, Victoria DeFrancesco Soto, a political scientist and MSNBC contributor, and attorney Maya Wiley.
In addition to its focus on politics and news, Up also aimed to highlight important social and cultural issues. For example, in honor of Black History Month in February 2017, the show featured a series of segments exploring the legacy of African Americans throughout U.S. history, including a discussion with civil rights activist and MSNBC correspondent Rev. Al Sharpton.
Another notable aspect of Up was its live coverage of major political events, such as primaries and debates. During the 2016 presidential race, the show provided extensive analysis and commentary on the candidates' campaigns and policies, as well as live coverage of primary and caucus results.
Throughout its run, Up earned a reputation for its insightful and engaging discussions, as well as its commitment to covering diverse perspectives and topics. In 2016, the show was nominated for a News and Documentary Emmy award in the category of Outstanding News Discussion and Analysis.
While Up was popular among political news aficionados and fans of Kornacki's hosting style, the show aired in a highly competitive timeslot against other morning news programs, including Fox & Friends and CNN's New Day. Despite its critical acclaim, Up was ultimately cancelled in 2018 as part of a broader shift in MSNBC's programming strategy.
Overall, Up was a dynamic and engaging news program that added a fresh perspective to the crowded landscape of morning television. With its strong focus on politics, culture, and social issues, it left a lasting impact on viewers and served as a valuable source of information and analysis during a tumultuous time in American politics.