Harlem’s Rev. Al Sharpton To Anchor Show on MSNBC

Target Market News reports that sources at MSNBC say Harlem’s Rev. Al Sharpton is on the verge of being the network permanent anchor after three weeks of sitting in for host Cenk Uygur. The hiring of the prominent civil rights activist would be a plus for MSNBC, which has been criticized recently, along with CNN, for not having enough people of color in roles in front of and behind the camera.Since the departure in January of Keith Olbermann, MSNBC’s highest ratings-earner, there have been no obvious replacements for the network. It brought in Uygur, who has a following of reportedly millions for his Internet-based show,
“The Young Turks.” When Uygur turned down the network’s contract offer, Sharpton was offered the guest spot.

Already heard weekdays on his nationally syndicated radio show, “Keepin’ It Real,” Sharpton had the ability to direct his listeners to tune to MSNBC, which apparently they did in impressive numbers. However, a spokesperson has said that there have been no formal discussions with network executives about a permanent position.