Meaning: Jessica Savitch, a pioneering journalist who became one of the first female anchors in the United States, made this statement that highlights the unpredictable nature of news events and the challenges of delivering them through newscasts. The quote underscores the fundamental difference between news and entertainment programming, emphasizing the inherent spontaneity and lack of control in the news industry.

In the fast-paced world of journalism, news events can unfold at any moment, often without warning or predictability. This unpredictability presents a unique challenge for journalists and news organizations, as they must be prepared to rapidly respond to breaking stories and deliver accurate, timely information to the public. Unlike entertainment shows, which are carefully planned and scripted in advance, news broadcasts must adapt to the ever-changing landscape of current events.

Savitch's assertion that news events cannot be controlled reflects the reality that journalists are often at the mercy of external factors such as natural disasters, political developments, and social upheavals. These events can disrupt the carefully laid plans of news organizations and require swift, on-the-ground reporting to keep audiences informed. The inability to control news events means that journalists must be flexible, resourceful, and ready to pivot their coverage at a moment's notice.

Furthermore, Savitch's statement touches on the idea that newscasts cannot be mapped out like entertainment shows. While entertainment programs are designed to entertain and captivate audiences through carefully crafted narratives and storylines, news broadcasts must grapple with the raw and unscripted nature of real-world events. This distinction highlights the journalistic responsibility to report the truth, even when it is chaotic and unpredictable, and to prioritize the public's right to know over the desire for structured, pre-planned content.

In the context of modern media, Savitch's quote remains highly relevant. With the advent of social media and citizen journalism, news events can now spread rapidly and unpredictably, challenging traditional news organizations to keep pace with the rapidly evolving information landscape. This dynamic environment underscores the need for journalists to remain agile and adaptable in the face of unforeseen developments.

Ultimately, Jessica Savitch's quote encapsulates the essence of journalism as a profession that operates in the realm of real-world events, where control is often elusive, and spontaneity is the norm. It serves as a reminder of the vital role that journalists play in delivering accurate and timely information to the public, even in the face of uncertainty and unpredictability. The quote also serves as a call to action for news organizations to embrace the ever-changing nature of news events and to meet the challenges of reporting with integrity and professionalism.