The TV Zone

Tom Brokaw, the last of the major anchors who symbolized the dominance of the Big Three networks news divisions for over two decades, is about the assume the last great ride of his distinguished career: NBC has named him moderator of "Meet the Press."

The post is effectively a temporary one - he'll hold down the job that Tim Russert came to represent during his 17-year reign before his death at age 58 a little over a week ago through inauguration, NBC announced. At that point the network will name - in all likelihood - a permanent successor. Of course, if Brokaw's ratings soar....

I suggested this scenario on Monday, thinking of seven solid reasons why Brokaw should be named the replacement, until at least inauguration. Here's the link, and scroll up if you want to see what I had to say, or check out these comments. They're fascinating and informed, and readers didn't exactly stand and salute my suggestion. I suspect they reflect a little of the dialogue that went on internally at NBC during this last painful week. Nevertheless, Brokaw is absolutely the best person for this job. NBC News - and really, the entire industry - is lucky to have him.

Here's the press release, just over an hour old:

"Beginning on Sunday, June 29, NBC News' Tom Brokaw will serve as moderator of "Meet the Press" through the 2008 presidential election. The broadcast will continue to originate from the NBC News Bureau in Washington D.C. The announcement was made today by NBC News President Steve Capus.

"A lot has been said in recent days about what 'Meet the Press' means to NBC News and to the nation," said Capus. "To have someone of Tom's stature step up and dedicate himself to ensuring its ongoing success is not only a testament to his loyalty to Tim, but his enduring commitment to NBC News and our viewers."

"Some of my best memories from covering the last several presidential elections have included working closely with Tom, so I know just how lucky we are to have him step in as moderator for 'Meet the Press,'" said executive producer Betsy Fischer. "His intellect, focus and calming presence is exactly what we need to move forward smartly and remain the No. 1 public affairs show on television as we head into one of the most pivotal elections in our nation's history."

For his part, Brokaw said, "I've been appearing on 'Meet the Press' since the days of Watergate when it was moderated by Lawrence E. Spivak right through the distinguished tenure of my great friend, Tim Russert, so I feel right at home. Tim made 'Meet the Press' the center of the universe for informative and lively discussions of public affairs, particularly the exciting 2008 campaign for president, and I intend to continue that commitment to our viewers."

Betsy Fischer is the executive producer and Michelle Jaconi and Rebecca Samuels are the producers of "Meet the Press," which is seen on the NBC Television Network from 9-10 a.m. ET in most markets. In Washington D.C. and New York City, the broadcast is seen from 10:30-11:30 a.m. ET. Please check local listings or the "Meet the Press" website www.mtp.msnbc.com) for television and radio broadcast times in your area.

(Photo: Andy Ryan / Corbis for Time Most Influential)