TV & VIDEO - Feb. 2, 1989

In what he calls an “aggressive” ratings maneuver timed to the February rating sweeps, David Frost has temporarily moved off the anchor desk of the syndicated “Inside Edition” to concentrate on the long, celebrity interviews for which he’s noted. The program’s senior reporter, Bill O’Reilly, took over as anchor Tuesday on the eve of the monthlong sweeps period. Frost says the move was neither a demotion nor an attempt to jack up the show’s disappointing ratings. The show’s publicist echoed that: “David Frost is still the host,” said Marcy Baron. “He will be on special assignment for approximately three weeks doing mega-interviews.” The results will be reviewed at the end of the month. “Inside Edition” airs weeknights at 7 p.m. on Channel 2.