Sky News, the news arm of Comcast-owned European media and technology giant Sky xxx, is gearing up for a pivotal year in politics in both the UK and US, according to David Rhodes, executive chairman of the Sky News Group. Speaking at a Sky News showcase event in London, Rhodes discussed the news brand’s approach, stating, “We’re fair, and we’re thoughtful, and we want our coverage to set an agenda, not present one.”
Rhodes emphasized Sky News’ goals of challenging the powerful, challenging the status quo, and being an insurgent brand. He highlighted the importance of investing in political coverage, citing the success of the weeknight show Politics Hub with Sophy Ridge, which has seen a surge in viewer interest since transitioning from a digital brand to a televised program.
Rhodes attributed the ability to make these investments and develop new programming to the support of parent company Comcast and NBCUniversal. He stressed that Comcast and NBCUniversal are deeply invested in the kind of news coverage that Sky News provides globally and in the UK.
Reflecting on the launch of Sky News in 1989, Rhodes referred to the news organization as a plucky upstart, bringing 24-hour news to the UK and now employing over 800 individuals involved in news gathering worldwide.
In late February, Rhodes, the former president of CBS News, was announced as the executive chairman of Sky News. His role focuses on developing a long-term commercial strategy for both Sky News UK and TG24 in Italy, the news channel of Sky Italia. Rhodes reports to Cecile Frot-Coutaz, CEO of Sky Studios.
As part of the leadership reshuffle, Jonathan Levy was promoted to managing director and executive editor of Sky News UK. This new structure was implemented following the departure of John Ryley, who served as the head of Sky News for 17 years.
Rhodes expressed his admiration for Sky’s commitment to accurate, impartial, and high-quality journalism. Together, he and the team at Sky News aim to bring crucial news coverage to audiences across the UK, Europe, and the wider world.
With big elections on the horizon in both the UK and US, Sky News is poised to play a significant role in shaping the political landscape. As an insurgent brand, they strive to challenge the powerful and the status quo. By investing in their political coverage and developing new programming, they aim to set the agenda rather than simply presenting it.
Thanks to the support of parent company Comcast and NBCUniversal, Sky News has the resources and backing to continue their important work on a global scale. With their history as a plucky upstart and their commitment to accurate and impartial journalism, Sky News is well-positioned to keep the public informed and engaged. As 2021 unfolds, the world will be watching their coverage of key political events and their dedication to challenging the powerful.
