Arizona PBS’ Simons named ‘Best TV Host’ by Phoenix New Times

Ted Simons sits at the Arizona Horizon anchor desk. Photo by Paula Maturana/Arizona PBS.

Ted Simons of “Arizona Horizon” was recently named “Best TV Host” by the Phoenix New Times.

The newspaper recognized Simons in its “Best of Phoenix” section, which highlights the publication’s favorite media personalities, artists, restaurants, entertainment venues and local landmarks.

Simons, who has hosted the nightly public affairs program on Arizona PBS since 2007, was praised for his preparation and his ability to elevate the conversation while still being respectful towards his guests. The newspaper described him as “hard-hitting and gracious at the same time.”

“It’s always nice to be recognized, especially by those who understand and appreciate what we do at Arizona Horizon. Many thanks to the New Times,” Simons said.

Arizona Horizon features interviews with government officials, policy makers and business leaders who discuss current events, topics and issues that affect Arizonans.

Simons is well-known for his political coverage each election season. He has covered every state and national election since taking the helm of the show and has hosted numerous candidate debates for federal, state and county offices.

During the 2020 Senate Debate between Mark Kelly and Martha McSally on Arizona PBS, Simons and his co-moderators received praise for asking tough questions and pushing for answers while keeping the conversation civil between candidates.

Simons was specifically recognized for his work, receiving a shout-out on Twitter from well-known journalist Soledad O’Brien.

Simons has received numerous print and broadcast journalism awards, including Rocky Mountain Emmys, the Arizona AP Broadcasters Association Award for Radio Talk Show and Radio Newscast, and numerous New Times Best of Phoenix honors.

He has worked in the Phoenix area for more than 30 years.

Prior to joining Arizona PBS, he hosted the afternoon drive news/talk show on KTAR radio, worked as news director/morning show host for KZON-FM and news/sports anchor/reporter at KPHO-TV. Simons was also sports director/anchor at KOFY-TV in San Francisco.