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A large satellite truck sits prominently outside Pepperdine’s School of Law, transforming part of the library into a makeshift studio complete with cameras, microphones and stage lights. Is yet another movie featuring Pepperdine’s gorgeous campus being filmed? Nothing quite so glamorous, but for those interested in politics, it houses something even better.
Every weekday on Court TV News, Dean Ken Starr uses the makeshift studio to provide commentary on the recent Supreme Court confirmation hearings.
The Senate has been debating President Bush’s nomination of Judge John Roberts for the position of Supreme Court chief justice, but the average American may find debates confusing and intimidating, a lengthy process full of jargon and formalities.
That is why Court TV News enlisted the help of Starr to provide an easy-to-understand version of the previous day’s debates. Aside from basic clarification, Starr’s commentary also aims to give already politically savvy viewers a deeper understanding of the confirmation hearings, according to Emily Barsh, senior vice president of news talent and development for Court TV News.
She said the station picked Starr because he was “smart, measured, engaging, funny and highly recognizable.
“(Starr adds) knowledge … personal experience, humor (and) the (talent) of getting his point across in a debate, without it getting too heated,” Barsh said.
Starr first appeared Sept. 6. Court TV News plans to continue his appearances through the first Monday of October.
Court TV News also hopes to have Starr back Oct. 3, the first day the Supreme Court resumes session, according to Barsh.
Court TV News representatives said they are extremely appreciative of Pepperdine’s flexibility and efficiency as the school has helped to make Starr’s commentary a reality.
“Dean Starr has been very generous with his time … Everyone is extremely professional without taking themselves too seriously,” Barsh said.
Starr tapes at various times between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., depending on his schedule.
Submitted 09-22-2005
MALIBU, CA
