SHADA OMAR
Host of LBC show Al Hadath
The topic and the guests must be captivating, newsworthy and timely. The mixture of pundits is also very important because bringing together different political currents creates intense discussions and adds texture. Prior to the show, the host should conduct thorough research to ensure the broadest possible coverage of discussion topics. The host should ask simple and direct questions to leave guests with little space for maneuverability. I watch a lot of political talk shows, but I prefer Ghassan Ben Jeddou’s Hiwar Maftouh (on Al Jazeera) and Giselle Khoury’s Bil Arabi (on Al Arabiya). Ghassan is a talented person; his show is dynamic, objective and bold. Giselle also hosts very important guests and I like her style of questioning.

IMAD MARMAL
Host of Al Manar show Hadith Ass’a
I believe in a ‘triangular’ formula, i.e. good hosts, good guests and good topics. The host should be well versed in his area of his expertise, whether it be politics or entertainment. For political shows, it is of utmost importance that a host be professional, impartial, and always host more than one point of view. In terms of guests, they must be knowledgeable about the issues at hand. Naturally, there may be some fluctuation between episodes, but as a general rule, guests must be up to par with the program. Finally, the topics should be interesting, timely and meaningful. Otherwise people won’t tune in. I am not loyal to any particular show. I try to keep an eye on everyone to keep improving.

MAHMOUD SAAD
Host of MBC show Oukloub Ass’afha
First and foremost, the host should be charismatic enough to attract a wide audience base. Viewers must feel at ease when watching the show and be willing to listen to what he or she has to say. A show must also have a wide margin of freedom. A host should interact with his guests—following up with questions based on their answers. Anything short of this will make a show seem like a Q and A session, which would be something else. If any of the aforementioned components are missing, a show’s ratings will falter and the host’s popularity may be damaged. I usually watch Ahmad Mansour’s Bila Houdoud and Zahi Wehbe’s Khallik Bel Beit. Both hosts demonstrate the characteristics I have mentioned and their stations--Al Jazeera’s and Future TV respectively-- provide them with the freedom they need.