The Today Show

First airing in 1952, NBC’s Today is the second longest running American television program (the first is Meet the Press). Hosted by Matt Lauer and Meredith Vieira, the news and talk show runs an unprecedented three hours (soon to be four) and includes popular segments like “Where in the World is Matt Lauer?”. The news anchor is Ann Curry. Weatherman Al Roker rounds out the quartet.

Good Morning America

Hot on the heels of No.

1 Today is ABC’s Good Morning America – or GMA. Hosted by Diane Sawyer and Robin Roberts, the morning news and talk show has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years, gaining ground on the NBC juggernaut. Newsman Chris Cuomo and forecaster Sam Champion fill out the team.

The Early Show

CBS’s entry in the morning news and talk show battle is The Early Show, a warmer, more casual program than its two main competitors. Co-hosted by four anchors – Harry Smith, Hanna Storm, Russ Mitchell and Dave Price – the two-hour program has seen its ratings rise as its style gels with new and old viewers alike.

Live with Regis and Kelly

This morning talk show saw a resurgence in popularity when co-host Kelly Ripa joined the program in February 2001. And Regis Philbin continues to attract new fans young and old. It’s “morning cup of coffee” talk format is its greatest trademark, along with its easy handling of celebrity and pop culture guests.

The View

The View feels like an all-new program with the September 2006 addition of co-host Rosie O’Donnell.

Created nearly a decade ago by journalist Barbara Walters, the for-women, by women program includes co-hosts O’Donnell, Walters, comedian Joy Behar and young conservative and reality TV star Elisabeth Hasselbeck.