The Presenter 2 is a super brand

The Presenter 2 is a super brand

I watched the premiere of the latest KTN show, The Presenter 2. This is the second edition of the reality show that discovered the prolific news anchor Edith Kimani. The show possess strong branding skills given the judges(including Judge Edith) wear customized shirts engraved KTN logo complete with corporate colours.

The auditions drew contestants from different walks of life. The contestants wanted to host shows. Others were just “into” TV. One offered to host Housewives of Kawangware to the shock of the judge who said it was drama and didn’t need a host.

I was however disappointed by the narrow world view of the contestants. Some didn’t know the current affairs yet they wanted to be journalists.  One was asked to name the Leader of Majority in Senate and went dumb.

The contestants too lacked confidence, swag and style.  How can you wear a polo shirt to anchor news? Of course there are exceptions like where one is acting to interview a source on location (as a reporter) or when experienced journalists go casual after learning the ropes. But come on, these are just beginners. They came across as naive and ignorant. No wonder judges sympathized with some cases which bordered on hopelessness. Other contestants came off as lazy and out of place.

I liked some who had great voice, authority and command. But I can bet the winner must have looks to make it on Kenyan TV screen. Let’s face it; the viewers want beautiful and handsome presenters. My claims are supported by the trends in local TVs where looks transcend substance.