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Marina LevinsonCorrespondent
Country:
 USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Soviet Television Career
- Transition to Israeli Television
- Moving to the United States and NTV-International
- Handling Sensitive News and Professionalism
- Cultural Differences between Israel and the US
- Personal Life and Family Values
- A Love for Israel
- Reasons for Leaving Israel
- Building Community in the US
- Family Dynamics in Emigration
- Son's Football Career
- Self-Identity
Early Life and Soviet Television Career
Marina Levinson was born Marina Burtseva in the USSR. She began her television career as one of the first female anchors to report live news on NTV-International, a Russian-language television network. During her time on "Do i Posle Polunochi" (Before and After Midnight), Levinson became known for her sincerity, intelligence, and exceptional delivery.
Transition to Israeli Television
After immigrating to Israel, Levinson hosted "Aktuality," a news program on Israeli television. She gained notoriety for her coverage of the escalating tensions in the Middle East, balancing objectivity with empathy and concern.
Moving to the United States and NTV-International
In the late 1990s, Levinson moved to the United States and joined NTV-International, where she became the anchor of "Today in the USA." Despite the challenges of working in a new country, she quickly adapted her skills and became a respected figure in the American media landscape.
Handling Sensitive News and Professionalism
Levinson believes that journalists have a right to express their opinions on the events they report, but must maintain a level of professionalism. She argues that indifference is unacceptable when covering tragedies or injustices. However, she emphasizes the importance of giving viewers the freedom to form their own conclusions on political matters.
Cultural Differences between Israel and the US
Reflecting on her experiences in different countries, Levinson notes that there are both similarities and differences in the approach to television news. In the Soviet Union, strict censorship prevailed, while in Israel and the US, she enjoyed greater freedom to express herself. Ultimately, her focus remained on delivering accurate and unbiased information.
Personal Life and Family Values
Despite her demanding career, Levinson prioritizes her family. She is married with two children and finds joy in spending time with loved ones. She credits her strong family bonds with giving her a sense of stability and belonging in different countries.
A Love for Israel
While she values her experiences in the US, Levinson reveals that Israel holds a special place in her heart. She admires the warmth and vitality of Israeli society, where people appreciate the simple joys of life. She also misses the accessibility and walkability of Tel Aviv.
Reasons for Leaving Israel
Levinson left Israel due to the loss of her beloved job as a host on "Aktuality." She lacked the skills for other professions and accepted an opportunity to work for NTV-International in New York. Her heart, however, remained in Israel.
Building Community in the US
In the US, Levinson maintains a smaller circle of close friends compared to Israel. Family obligations and work commitments take up most of her time. Nevertheless, she enjoys observing people and gaining insights into their lives on public transportation, a habit she developed during her university years.
Family Dynamics in Emigration
Levinson challenges the notion that emigration weakens family bonds. She attributes the strength of her relationship with her husband and children to open communication and shared interests. The birth of her daughter at the age of 41 has revitalized her youth and deepened her appreciation for life.
Son's Football Career
Levinson's son is a promising footballer who played for youth teams in Israel. He currently plays for the New York MetroStars soccer club while pursuing his education at the university level. Her husband, Alexander, a respected sports journalist, supports their son's aspirations.
Self-Identity
Despite living in different countries, Levinson identifies most strongly as an Israeli. She feels a deep connection to the people and culture of Israel, where she experienced both the greatest challenges and some of the most rewarding moments of her life.
