MUMBAI: In April 2005 in order to broaden its programme offerings CNN had aired a special Quest. In it its correspondent Richard Quest tracked down some of the biggest names in comedy to find out what it takes to entertain and tickle the bones of a live audience.
Encouraged by the response the show received the broadcaster has announced that the concept will become a regular feature on the channel. Quest will see the correspondent going in search of greatness as he travels the globe. The show kicks off on 9 July at 5 pm with a repeat on 10 July at 12 pm and 6 pm.
Quest examines questions like Does the grey matter, matter? And does everyone have the potential for greatness? Dwelling on the initiative CNN Intl MD Chris Cramer says, “CNN is constantly seeking ways to evolve its programming. The success of the pilot show showed that we had hit a nerve with our international audience who are responding well to the growing strand of feature and lifestyle programming on CNN. We are very pleased to have developed a format that plays to Richard's strengths as both interviewer and presenter who really engages with viewers.”
Drawing inspiration from the ancient civilisation of Petra, talking to living icons such as the Dalai Lama and going head to head with the legendary brain of Einstein, Quest is on a search in this first edition of his new series for what drives, inspires and makes a person great. Are they born that way or do they achieve greatness through hard work, experience, or knowledge?
As part of his research Quest seeks out personalities such as Archbishop Desmond Tutu, spiritual leader the Dalai Lama and former US President Bill Clinton for the answer. He also follows the well worn paths of those who have gone in search of inspiration and greatness in places such as Petra in Jordan and Gandhi’s ashram in India.
For the Dalai Lama greatness is more of a mental state than a physical one: he tells Quest: “ With a smart brain and credit by warm-heartedness, a sense of responsibility, sense of compassion I think a person becomes something, something great or something useful.”
Clinton says, “I think near history tends to reward those who happen to govern in difficult periods, particularly if there is conflict. What really matters in any leaders’ moment in history is that you understand the time in which you live and you understand your mission that will take you from where you are.”
What is unique about Quest is that it dispenses with the usual sofa and Q&A format. Richard Quest uses his unconventional and unique interviewing style to gain insight into what makes his guests tick.
