Later Today

By James Poniewozik

Lesser Today would be more apt for this retrograde expansion of NBC's franchise morning show. The easy-listening fare--dating younger men, how to "test-drive" a dog--isn't really the problem so much as the tone. The ingratiating host trio makes Rosie O'Donnell sound like a shock jock (co-host Florence Henderson seems grateful to be on TV at all: "Good morning! This is so much fun!"). After The View proved that homebound audiences like a little sass with their coffee and celebs, Later needs a shot of attitude in its cup. Maybe Joy Behar has a friend?

--J.P.