Spitzer/Parker: Jonathan Klein Interview…

The Wrap’s Dylan Stableford interviews CNN President Jonathan Klein about today’s Spitzer/Parker news…

How long have you been thinking about a show like this?

Well, when you say a “show like this,” what do you mean? What we’re doing is betting on two incredibly smart individuals who have a fantastic chemistry, a real grasp of the issues of the day. They are two of the most intelligent and outspoken figures in the country. That’s what we’re banking on. I got to know them a little bit over the last few months. I’ve been reading Kathleen’s columns, and have been reading Eliot on Slate and seeing him on various shows. And they both have superior intellect. And superior fearlessness, on both sides on the aisle. They both don’t care no matter whose ox is being gored. It will make for some compelling television.

You’re always softly thinking about things, and always have (new concepts) on the radar. But in this case, things accelerated when Campbell Brown came to us and said she would step aside and go do whatever it is she is going to do. So I’d say the last two months.