So, it seems that the popular video blog Rocketboom has lost its star anchor. As one of the first big celebrity upheavals in the blog (or vlog) world, it has been interesting to see the reactions to Amanda Congdon’s departure.

I got a good overview from some of my favorite sources:
Amanda’s announcement
Producer Andrew Michael Baron’s reaction
Scoble
Om Malik
B.L. Ochman
Dave Winer

One side-effect is that this incident will bring some attention to podcasts (specifically vlogs) that could actually widen the medium’s popularity, as podcasts continue their arc toward becoming a true mass medium (the story already made USAToday.com’s home page on Wednesday afternoon).

Another interesting thought– was this an elaborate, planned hoax? I don’t think so — it would tick too many people off to be a smart move– but it would entertain me.

As for Rocketboom, is their life after Amanda? Well, consider:

• Trapper John leaves M*A*S*H
• Craig Kilborn leaves “The Daily Show”

And of course, best of luck to both Baron and Congdon in their endeavours. I have been and remain a fan of Rocketboom and the mainstream attention it has brought to the blogging world. I expect it will continue, and that we have not heard the last from Amanda Congdon, on the Web or in the MSM.

Update since first draft: Jason Calacanis has given Amanda– via is blog– an offer she just might refuse. How many more blog-based proposals will she get before she speaks again?

And: Amanda expands on her side of the story. A real soap opera in the making.

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