NewsOne Now

NewsOne Now, aired on TV One from 2013 to 2017, was a revolutionary, groundbreaking program that positioned itself as America’s only national morning show that catered specifically to African Americans. Through an intriguing and smartly crafted merger of news, commentary, current affairs, and analysis, this top-rated program delivered an informative, comprehensive, and unapologetically brazen outlook that engaged viewers and kept them abreast of the latest happenings both within the African American community and the United States as a whole.

Created and anchored by renowned journalist, political commentator, and one-time CNN contributor Roland S. Martin, NewsOne Now employed a direct, unfiltered and in-depth approach. The show was an enlightening and empowering platform that explored key cultural, social, political, and economic matters affecting African Americans.

Normally a one-hour running show, each episode of NewsOne Now would begin with Martin’s signature “Roland’s Rundown,” a quick, energetic summary of the day’s most pressing issues. When it came to nitty-gritty details and complex affairs, Martin wasn't afraid to delve into in-depth examinations. With his signature style and thorough yet comprehensible approach, he led stimulating discussions, interviews, and debates to break down the impact and relevancy of the issues.

Unlike many news programs, NewsOne Now presented information from an expressly African American perspective, treating the concerns, achievements, and pursuits of the African American population not as niche or side issues but as central, noteworthy news. This unique approach offered the audience an alternative perspective in contrast to those of the mainstream media landscape.

Moreover, the show involved a wide variety of engaging guests. From prominent political figures, leading academics, esteemed business minds, culture artists, athletes, celebrities, to ordinary individuals making an extraordinary difference, NewsOne Now provided a platform for diverse voices and opinions. It showcased the richness, vitality, and dynamism of the African American community, highlighting stories of success and resilience that often went unreported in mainstream news circles.

NewsOne Now also extensively covered the politics of the day, keeping African Americans informed about the decisions, policies, and propositions that affected their lives. Election cycles, policy reforms, domestic debates, international affairs - this show ensured that all these elements were explored in depth, with genuine concern for the implications they carried.

Beyond politics, the program didn't shy away from digging into cultural issues, national happenings, local events, and the delights of African American culture, heritage, and lifestyle. Be it the exploration of Afro-centric arts and entertainment, health and wellness, education, or entrepreneurship, the program offered an engaging mix of serious, stimulating, and sometimes fun content that resonated with its audience.

NewsOne Now also maintained an active online presence. Through podcasts and digital content, the show facilitated an interactive relationship with its audience. The show’s digital platforms allowed for real-time engagement, allowing viewers across the country to join the conversation, express their opinions, and ask questions which were at times addressed on the live show.

NewsOne Now was more than a morning show; it was a platform that took a bold stand for the African American community. For its entire run from 2013 to 2017, the show provided valuable insights, amplified voices, and encouraged dialogue on matters of foremost importance to the African American population.

More than just delivering breaking news, NewsOne Now emerged as a unique program that demonstrated how the African American community is integral to America’s narrative. By changing the television morning show landscape, this show proved that Black voices, Black stories, and Black perspectives matter and should be a staple in national news programming.