Tell me you just saw that – NBC, who controls exclusive broadcast rights to all Olympic events – told us who won an event…BEFORE they aired it!
I had to do a double take when I saw it, but it was clear as day. In their promo for today’s (Tuesday) Today Show, they encouraged viewers to watch as American Missy Franklin celebrated her first gold medal with her parents. But wait a second, they haven’t shown her race yet!
That’s what I yelled at the TV, because indeed, the primetime telecast had not yet reached the women’s 100m Back final, which was due up after the commercial break. It took the wind out of watching the race, but didn’t make it any less exciting. Franklin was down coming off the turn and even into the final 25 meters it didn’t look like she was going to get to the wall first. Using her long frame, a strong last 10m and an amazing dolphin kick to the wall, Franklin, just 17 years old, earned her first gold medal.
Many things frustrate me (and other viewers) about NBC’s coverage of sporting events: the commentators, the way they promote them, the uninformed reporters asking terrible questions immediately after an event. This gaffe took the cake. What is the point of holding us prisoners of your coverage if you’re just going to tell us the results before you air the events anyway?
Let’s hope this is a one-time thing, because it really soured my 3rd day of complete media blackout. As we mentioned on The Runaround last night, this is no easy task!
- Ryan
