Behind the Doc: "75 Hours"
In my 38 years working at WRAL-TV, I’ve had the privilege of covering some amazing and historic stories. But few of them compare with experiencing a hurricane firsthand.
Over the years, I’ve shot video in nine different major storms. Nothing prepares you for what you’ll endure. There are a few things you can count on. You will be soaked to the bone. There will be very little sleep. It will be a struggle to keep your equipment working.
That’s why producing “75 Hours” was a labor of love for me. I’ve been right where my colleagues from WRAL were for Florence. As a matter of fact, the station called me into action for hurricane coverage for this storm. It was great to work with my old buddy Jeff Gravley once again. We were partners on the Big 5 sports team for several years.
My friends and family have asked if I’m ever scared when the hurricane hits. Absolutely. You would be foolish to NOT have a healthy fear of these kinds of storms.
As a matter of fact, I make a pact with the reporters I work with during hurricanes. It’s pretty simple really. If for any reason, you get scared and want to turn around to seek shelter, just say the word. No questions asked.
I’ll never forget the time when I had to use it. I was working with the one and only Debra Morgan during Bertha in 1996. As the eye approached the NC coast, we decided to make a quick run to Southport and shoot some quick video of the first of the worst of the winds and rain.
About halfway between Wilmington and Southport, the winds and rain were really raging. Suddenly a huge tree cartwheeled across the road right in front of our car. I slammed on the brakes. Debra and I looked at each other and BOTH agreed it was time to turn around!
Those are the kinds of decisions reporters, photojournalists and engineers constantly made during the marathon hurricane coverage of Florence. I hope “75 Hours” gives you a glimpse at what they go through to bring the story to the viewer.
This documentary is the story of the people who broadcast the story. And they are my friends.
When and how to watch "75 Hours":
- Download and livestream on the WRAL app on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, AppleTV, and Android TV.
- Watch an encore presentation on FOX 50 (WRAZ) on Saturday, December 15 at 4 p.m.
- Program remains available on wraldocumentary.com and on-demand any time after the premiere.
