Alec Baldwin to Host TCM’s “The Essentials”

Alec Baldwin has been named host of “The Essentials,” TCM’s franchise showcasing “must see” classic films previously hosted by the late – and great – Robert Osborne. Joining Baldwin each week throughout the season will be one of three special guests: late-night television icon David Letterman, acclaimed actress, writer and comedian Tina Fey and legendary filmmaker William Friedkin. Together, Baldwin and his guests will introduce a hand-picked classic and offer color commentary on its cultural significance, its influence on other films, behind-the-scenes stories and their own personal reflections. The new season of The Essentials, which airs every Saturday night, premieres May 6 at 8 p.m. ET.

“The Essentials” will kick off with special guest David Letterman joining Baldwin to discuss a varuety of popular classics including:”The Bad and the Beautiful” (1952), airing May 6; “East of Eden” (1955) , airing on May 13; “No Time for Sergeants “(1958), airing on May 27; and “The Big Sleep” (1946), airing on June 16.

Tina Fey will make her guest appearance starting on June 24 to discuss her favorite classic films including:

-“Rear Window” (1954) – airing June 24
-“The Lady Eve” (1941) – airing on July 1
-“The Bride of Frankenstein” (1935) – airing on July 8
-“Singin’ in the Rain” (1952) – airing on August 5

Rounding out the entertaining new season, William Friedkin will join Baldwin to highlight another round of notable films such as:

-“The Quiet Man” (1952) – airing on Aug. 12
-“The Manchurian Candidate” (1962) – airing on Aug. 19
-“2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968) – airing on Sept. 2
-“The Treasure of the Sierra Madre” (1948) – airing on Sept. 23