Today just announced a major shake-up, as one of its Saturday co-anchors, Peter Alexander, is exiting the show after working for NBC for 22 years.
On Saturday, March 28, Alexander revealed that he is leaving Saturday Today and NBC News after more than two decades with the network.
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“I’ve had the most incredible experience over 22 years with NBC News—from Baghdad to Banda Aceh, Burbank to Beijing, always alongside the best, the most professional, the most dedicated journalists in the business,” he began. “I could not be more grateful for every one of them and for the leaders and mentors here who have believed in me and given me more opportunities than I ever dreamed of.”
Alexander added, “Of course, I’m grateful to you for welcoming [me] into your homes for all these years. Almost 14 of those years from the North Lawn of the White House, or maybe from around the world. It’s hard to believe that I’ve been a part of the NBC family for longer than I have had my own family. Studio 1A, being right here with this team, with all the folks that you don’t get to see on TV. This is literally my happy place. It is so fun. I mean, what a gig.”
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Additionally, Alexander explained his reason for exiting Today and NBC News: to spend more time with his wife, Alison Starling, and their daughters, Ava and Emma.
“I’ve been away from my home more than 80 nights in the last seven months. More than 220 Friday nights—220 Friday nights away from my family in the last seven years,” he pointed out. “So, in this limited window before my daughters lose interest in hanging out with me. It’s already happened quick. I’m eager to carve out a better balance between my personal and professional lives, and to challenge myself with something new. I’m excited. As I was taught, family first, the rest is details.”
To conclude the announcement, Alexander thanked viewers for “your trust and your confidence.” He added, “And most of all, thank you to NBC News for what have been undoubtedly the most exciting years of my life.”
In the comments of a clip of his announcement shared via Instagram, Today viewers shared their reactions to the news of his exit.
One Instagram user wrote, “You will be missed. Best wishes on your next era and enjoy time with your family!”
Another shared, “Oh, Peter. Say it isn’t so. We are going to miss you! Best wishes in your new endeavor!❤️.”
Someone else lamented, “Huge loss for NBC!”
Meanwhile, yet another fan commented, “Thank you, Peter, for being a trusted source of news for over two decades. Wishing you the best in your next chapter!”
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