10/10/2008

WGN Books Steinfeld for Specials
Author, fitness expert to host 'That Moment!' by John Dempsey, Variety

WGN America, the superstation that reaches 72 million cable/satellite homes, has signed a deal with bestselling author and fitness expert Jake Steinfeld to host "That Moment!," a series of one-hour talkshow specials for the 2008-09 season.

Sean Compton, senior VP of programming and development for Tribune Broadcasting, which owns WGN America, said the Steinfeld hours will be the first of a series of exclusive, original programs that will help the service in its transition from superstation to cable network.

"That Moment!" will "deal with the turning point in celebrities' lives," Compton said, "and Jake will often go on location to visit people in their homes."

Steinfeld, who's known for the book and TV series "Body By Jake" and founded the cable net Fit TV (which reaches 43 million homes), has served as personal trainer in the past to Steven Spielberg, Harrison Ford, Bette Midler and George Lucas.

Compton is counting on Steinfeld's clout in the Hollywood community to drum up big-name guests. Each hour will feature interviews with two or three guests, who'll take Steinfeld to visit people in their lives, including spouses, children, parents, school teachers and clergy.

"Transformative life lessons" is what Ed Wilson, president of Tribune Broadcast, is looking for from Steinfeld and his guests.

Dave Harding is producer of "That Moment!" and Doug Aarniokski is the director.

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