As the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks approaches, television news networks are preparing to commemorate this significant moment in history through a variety of programming strategies. Each network is leveraging its unique brand and historical coverage of the events to engage viewers, particularly those who may not have experienced the day firsthand.

The programming strategies can be broadly categorized into three approaches: utilizing archival footage as a historical record, treating the anniversary as a national ceremony, and exploring the unresolved political and legal questions stemming from the attacks. This multifaceted approach aims to resonate with both those who witnessed the events live and a younger generation for whom 9/11 is a historical event.

Tapping into History

NBC is set to feature a special edition of “Dateline,” anchored by Lester Holt, which will showcase previously unseen footage from the NBC News archives. “Our goal is to bring viewers, especially those who were born after 9/11, back to the experience of that day as it unfolded at Ground Zero,” said Paul Ryan, executive producer of “Dateline.” The documentary will highlight personal accounts from New Yorkers who experienced the attacks, including survivors and first responders.

Similarly, CNN will rebroadcast the Naudet brothers’ documentary “9/11,” which contains the only known footage of the first plane striking the World Trade Center. This will be complemented by a new interview with the filmmakers and the premiere of “Top of the World,” a short documentary about the Windows on the World restaurant, which was located atop the North Tower.

CBS will revisit its own history with a special “9/11: We Remember” episode of “60 Minutes,” hosted by Lesley Stahl. This segment will explore how the community of Summit, N.J., which lost nine residents in the attacks, has coped with the tragedy over the years.

Paying Tribute

In addition to archival programming, several networks are framing the anniversary as a shared national ritual. ABC will host “9/11 Tribute in Light: Live From Lower Manhattan,” featuring performances by artists such as Cyndi Lauper and Lainey Wilson. This live broadcast aims to focus on remembrance and resilience rather than the specifics of the attacks.

Examining 9/11’s Legacy

Networks are also addressing the ongoing political and legal ramifications of 9/11. CBS will air “Daughters of 9/11,” which follows two women who lost their fathers in the attacks and examines the unresolved prosecution of Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the alleged mastermind behind the attacks. NewsNation will take a more personality-driven approach, featuring interviews with notable figures like former President Donald Trump and former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, alongside Chris Cuomo’s reflections on covering the attacks.

As these networks prepare to mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11, they are not only revisiting the events of that day but also exploring its lasting impact on American society. Through a combination of archival footage, personal testimonies, and live tributes, they aim to honor the memory of those lost while fostering a deeper understanding of the day’s significance for future generations. For more details, visit TheWrap.