Way Too Early

Way Too Early is a morning news and talk show that debuted on MSNBC in 2009. As the intriguing name suggests, the program comes on air at 5:30 AM EST, a time slot considered "way too early" for many. However, this early slot caters well to viewers who are preparing for their day and are in need of a comprehensive news roundup. In 2015, the host seat was occupied by Thomas Roberts, an experienced journalist and Emmy award winner with a distinctive and engaging style. The tag line for the show during this period was "With Thomas Roberts," adding a personal touch to the program along with an air of credibility.

The unique selling point of Way Too Early is its timing. This early morning slot allows the show to be the first to deliver the fresh news of the day to its viewers. It acts as a precursor to Morning Joe, MSNBC's flagship morning show, and delivers a synoptic report of the news headlines for viewers who need a quick overview of current events. However, it also offers in-depth analysis and expert views, making the news more insightful for the audience.

In terms of content, Way Too Early is a fusion of both national and international news encompassing a variety of categories, including politics, business, sports, and entertainment. Thus, the viewers enjoy a balanced diet of news from all walks of life. The show's detailed coverage keeps the viewers informed about everything important happening in the world.

Roberts' style of hosting is known to add a unique flavor to Way Too Early. With his affable nature and inquisitive interviewing style, Roberts managed to draw insight and perspective from the guests. He has the knack of simplifying complex issues, making them understandable for the average viewer. His conversations with high-profile guests in the political and social realm were a highlight of the show.

Notably, Way Too Early is not just about news. The show also offers viewers light-hearted segments designed to kick-start their day on a cheerful note. Features like "checking the papers," where they review interesting headlines from leading newspapers, allow viewers to grasp a wider perspective on the news stories of the day. In addition, the show thrives on viewer interaction through the segment "I’m Up, So You’re Up,” where viewers share why they're awake so early, through social media.

The cornerstone of Way Too Early is its commitment to comprehensive and quality news coverage. Given the timing, one would expect the content to be brief and superficial. However, the show surprisingly offers a robust coverage, analyzing news items from multiple angles. It sheds light on the nuances of the issues and the implications of the news, making its coverage both instructive and exhaustive.

Moreover, Way Too Early doesn’t shy away from the occasional exclusive news items and breaking news, due to its access to the broad network of international correspondents. Its frontline journalistic efforts have been appreciated by many, adding to its credibility as a comprehensive news portal.

The show is shot at 30 Rockefeller Center, New York City. The studio setting offers a modern look with cutting-edge technology and monitors displaying real-time news feeds and data. The blend of technology, aesthetics and the established credibility of MSNBC gives Way Too Early a cutting-edge appeal that caters to a wide demographic of early risers.

Despite the change in hosts and slight variations in segments over the years, Way Too Early has maintained its core proposition of delivering early morning news to its viewers. Its positioning as an ahead-of-the-curve news show has remained consistent. In 2015, under Thomas Roberts' guidance, the show continued to uphold its unique brand proposition, delivering on its tagline: "The news you need, 'Way Too Early.'”

Thus, Way Too Early is not merely a predictable morning news show. It is an innovative solution for information-thirsty viewers who want to stay updated, even at the crack of dawn. Whether it's the early bird or the night owl who wants to catch up on the latest happenings in the world before winding down, Way Too Early serves both with aplomb. It is a show designed for those who crave early morning news, thorough analysis, insightful commentary, and an engaging delivery style.