Eva Pilgrim is on a mission to modernize ‘Inside Edition’, balancing the needs of loyal viewers with the demands of a new digital audience.
Eva Pilgrim Aims to Revitalize ‘Inside Edition’ for Modern Audiences
As linear television faces a decline and the broader TV news landscape experiences challenges, can a 36-year-old syndicated newsmagazine retain its loyal audience while attracting new viewers beyond traditional platforms?
Eva Pilgrim’s Vision
Eva Pilgrim is confident in her approach.
The seasoned ABC News correspondent and Good Morning America anchor joined the CBS-produced syndicated series Inside Edition last month. With the new season starting Monday night, she is eager to leave her mark on the show.
“I grew up watching this show,” Pilgrim shared in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter. “It’s only week two. I have a lot of anxiety. I want to do right by this show because I’ve loved it my whole life. I hope that my experiences and storytelling skills will serve me well in this moment, but honestly, I’m just waiting to see how it all unfolds.”
Transitioning Leadership
Pilgrim takes over from Deborah Norville, who announced her departure from Inside Edition after leading the program for 30 years. Any anchor transition on a TV news program is challenging, especially now, as there is a strong desire to keep millions of loyal linear viewers while also reaching new audiences who may not engage with the show through traditional means.
“You want to do right by those viewers, providing them with what they expect. We will continue to do that, and I hope to do it in a way that respects the essence of the show that everyone loves,” Pilgrim remarked. “Deborah is incredible, a legacy in the business, and an inspiration to me as a journalist, woman, and mother. I look to her as an example of what is possible, while also bringing my own style to the table.”
Adapting to Change
“The industry is evolving, and we all recognize that,” Pilgrim added. “I want to ensure job security for myself and my colleagues in the next decade. There’s a genuine commitment to supporting one another.”
Thus, Pilgrim is optimistic that Inside Edition can satisfy long-time viewers while broadening its reach on platforms where the majority of content consumption occurs today.
See More ...
“What’s remarkable about Inside Edition is its ability to tell stories that are going viral on TikTok and sought after on Instagram and YouTube. Those are the types of stories we cover, and we do it in an engaging manner,” Pilgrim explained. “Many of my friends don’t watch linear television; they prefer YouTube, TikTok clips, or podcasts. I believe we can adapt our content to meet people where they are and in the formats they prefer.”
“That was a significant factor in my decision to join Inside Edition,” she continued. “The team is already thinking along those lines, and I believe we can do even more to connect with a wider audience and provide them with what they’re looking for.”
Unique Content Advantage
One advantage Inside Edition holds over similar TV news programs is its content. Originally a hard news program anchored by David Frost, it gradually embraced tabloid, true crime, and lighter topics under Bill O’Reilly and Norville—genres that resonate well on TV and thrive online.
“They tackle stories that people are genuinely discussing, the topics that friends are comfortable talking about, even in a time when discussing the news can be uncomfortable,” Pilgrim noted. “It’s the kind of content that becomes water cooler talk. We start covering stories from the beginning and watch them unfold alongside America. I appreciate that the newscast always ends on a positive note, featuring heartwarming stories that leave viewers smiling or laughing.”
“That feels especially comforting right now,” Pilgrim concluded.
