Inaugural TV Deals Bring Big Bucks, Controversy

Doc offers voice to McCain supporters Feeling Wronged

(NEWSER) - Right America, Feeling Wronged, a documentary airing tonight on HBO, follows filmmaker Alexandra Pelosi as she chats with die-hard McCain/Palin supporters on the campaign trail, some of whom fear Barack Obama is the anti-Christ. Critics are mixed on the result: While David S. Glasier calls it “one of the most profoundly disturbing programs I've seen” in the News-Herald, Verne Gay, writing in Newsday, says the film is “just a parade.” More»

(NEWSER) - Aretha Franklin’s inauguration hat has been mercilessly mocked by some, but lots of people want one of their very own. The Detroit millinery where Franklin has been a customer for 20 years has been flooded with calls for orders, the AP reports. But Aretha wannabes soon learn that the hand-molded $500 hat isn't for sale—it was custom-designed for her. Instead, customers can order a slightly different version for $179. More»

Web audience sends numbers skyrocketing

(NEWSER) - Barack Obama's inauguration was the most-watched ever but it failed to set a TV ratings record, USA Today reports. Neilsen estimates 37.8 million television viewers tuned in for the ceremony, while 41.8 million watched Ronald Reagan's 1981 inauguration. But internet viewership broke records and sent figures through the roof. Some 26.9 million watched online streaming on CNN and 9.1 million on MSNBC's site, according to the networks. More»

'These things' typical in brain-cancer patients; Dodd says he's 'fine'

(NEWSER) - After being hospitalized for a seizure suffered during an inaugural luncheon, Ted Kennedy is himself again, say those close to him. When one is undergoing treatment for brain cancer, a source tells ABC News, “these things happen,” and Kennedy is stable. “He’s fine,” said friend and fellow senator Chris Dodd. “He was talking all the way to the ambulance. He’s just exhausted.” More»

Inauguration spectators wait for hours to get in and out of Mall area

(NEWSER) - The record-breaking crowd—an estimated 1.8 million people—at today’s inaugural events is overwhelming Washington’s streets and mass-transit systems, creating long waits for spectators trying to exit the Mall area, the Post reports. Hours after the swearing-in, some were still waiting to enter Metro stations. “It’s something you have to endure for the chance of a lifetime,” one traveler said. More»