When speaking with “Pardon the Interruption” and “Around the Horn” executive producer Erik Rydholm about the two programs moving into new studios, Rydholm was most excited about finally getting a window. But the two Washington-based ESPN produced shows are going through a major face lift that viewers will see starting Monday.
Rydholm on the new move » We have loved our relationship with Washington-based Atlantic Studios, but we really have, for a time, wanted more space and the ability of changing the look of the show. I mean both “PTI” — which started in 2001 — and “Around the Horn” — that came a year after — have really not had a makeover or for that matter we have not made the transition to high definition. So really the time to change is here.
Finding the right space » We wanted a state-of-the-art facility and, for a time, we considered moving to the ESPN Los Angeles studios that are located in the LA Live complex across the street from the Staples Center, but then we got a break and we will be moving into the Washington offices and studios of ABC and taking over the a newly renovated space that once was home to “Nightline.” So we could not be happier. We get everything we wanted in Washington and plus we get offices with windows.
On the success of “PTI” and “Around the Horn” » The duo of Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon would be entertaining if I had one camera and a light bulb. They continue to be able to disagree about anything and everything, but remain friends and make most of it entertaining. As for “Around the Horn,” it challenges debate and stimulates conversation. We are really lucky with both shows because when we first started the 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. block was thought to be throw away time, but we have — through the hard work of some very talented people — made it a strong rating block that is an asset to the network. A fun aside is that “PTI” is of course seen in Canada as well, but ESPN International has started one in the U.K. and there are more on the drawing board. I will say, looking at the British versions of Tony and Mike is very entertaining.
Examiner columnist Jim Williams is a seven-time Emmy Award-winning TV producer, director and writer. Check out his blog, Watch this! on washingtonexaminer.com.
