Downey set the trend for every tabloid "talk show" that followed.
In the late 1980's a fellow police officer of mine, Robert Machete was killed in the line of duty. Downey did an entire hour dedicated to the memory of Bobby so it may be placed on video and given to Bobby's young daughter to have for when she was older. It was one of the most benevolent things I have ever saw a media symbol accomplish.
Downey wasn't popular with the left-winged liberals due to his love of country and calling every so-called civil activist out i.e. Al Sharpton and the likes. His in your face attitude, and the journalists award he was given he used as an ash tray (it looked like a punch bowl) was priceless.
Downey is sorely missed!