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TV Execs Like Palin's Future

Talk show, news commentator, even reality program among possible post-politics offers

By Katherine Thompson, Newser Staff

Posted Oct 24, 2008 11:55 AM CDT

(Newser) – Even if she doesn't end up in Washington, Sarah Palin could still find a presence in the lower 48, the Hollywood Reporter notes. Media higher-ups, salivating at the thought of ratings bumps that Palin appearances gave Saturday Night Live and CBS News, would love to offer her a backup career—with talk shows, news commentary or even a reality gig among the possible pitches.

“I could see her getting more traction as an Oprah than as an Anderson Cooper,” one agent says of Palin, who has 2 years left in her term as Alaska governor. Others see a stint on Fox News, and one producer dreams of a reality show called The Palins. Not everyone's a fan, though: “I find her a little stiff,” says one executive.

[Images (4)]

[Quotes (2)]

A reality show that chronicles the Palins' life in Alaska could be a great cross between "The Osbournes" and "Northern Exposure." (AP Photo)

Palin's polarizing effect on America could be a ratings boon, some execs think: those who love her will tune in to fawn, while others may watch hoping to see her stumble. (AP Photo)

In spite of her rhetorical meanderings in an interview with Katie Couric, Sarah Palin could be a prime candidate for hosting a Fox News show, some say. (AP Photo/CBS News, HO)

Republican vice presidential candidate Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin gives a thumbs up sign to a supporter during a rally, Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2008, at Lunken Airport in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Al Behrman)

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The passion she has on each side, love and hate, makes television people say, 'Wow, imagine the viewership.'
- Veteran morning-show producer Steve Friedman

I find her a little stiff, and her ability to read the room is not quite fully developed. - An anonymous Hollywood executive, giving the dissenting opinion

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TV Execs Like Palin's Future