Behind the Scenes, with the New Hosts Of "CBS This Morning" -- the New Network Show

Lisa Sigell and I just wrapped up a little satellite get-together with the new cast of  CBS This Morning,  the new 7-9 a.m. show that is replacing The Early Show. Individually, all three of the hosts are known to all: but it's interesting to see them together. Here's what I learned.

Charlie Rose is one of the preeminent interviewers of our time. Of course, he'd like to get President Obama as an interview subject: but he'd also like to get Jack Nicholson. Ppersonally, I think Obama might be easier, especially during an election cycle.  But I like Charlie's thinking about what West-Coast viewers are about, and --hey-- we are an industry town.  Watch Charlie Rose, and I think you'll find a guy who's really, really smart, and at the same time, very approachable. I like his dry sense of humor.

Gayle King is a guest in millions of women's lives every day. Yes, that Gayle King... what's-her-name's best buddy. She was very funny in the short time we talked, and I think she's going to be a lot of fun to watch in a live format, with an empathy us regular guys will appreciate. I admit, I haven't seen a lot  of her, because I'm not supposed to watch the channel she's been on.  so I look forward to getting to know her better.

Everybody who knows me, knows I have a crush on Erica Hill: Erica's the steady presence, coming over from the old show. I'm not sure what it is about Erica that I like so much: I just know that when she talks, I want to watch and listen. See if you don't feel the same way. She says she told Charlie to set two alarm clocks, far enough away that they can't be turned off from bed. She's a veteran of morning TV.

CBS This Morning, debuts Monday, Jan. 9 at 7 a.m.  I'm told the new show-open alone is worth the price of admission. Let me know what you think.