The DNA of celebrity status is that unique trademark. But what it giveth - great fame - it can also taketh away - second acts. Just consider how difficult it has become for Harrison Ford, earnest adventure man, to find quality roles which allow him to thrive as an older actor. Sally Field, lightweight literally as "The Flying Nun," had a rough time getting a shot at a serious role such as "Places in the Heart." Now we have the living case study of polemic television anchor Lou Dobbs entering a new phase in his career.
Dobbs became iconic on CNN for adopting a strong persona and strong stance about immigration. At the time that was unusual. Last November 2009, he left CNN and tried out politics. Now, as Fox has announced, he is returning to the small screen. But time has passed and Dobbs's CNN act won't fly on Fox. Yet, will viewers allow Dobbs to change into the personality needed to create a presence for himself and bring ratings to Fox? More basic: Can former celebrity Lou Dobbs allow survivor-oriented Lou Dobbs to change enough to navigate televison in 2011?
For a few weeks we will tune in to monitor the transition. Then, if we aren't comfortable with Dobbs 2.0 as well as entertained we will adios.
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