Ann Curry was not the most obvious replacement for Meredith Viera, but over time I came to love Ann.
I won’t lie, when Meredith Viera signed off the “Today Show” last year I was really sad. While I am not a “Today” viewer I liked Meredith from time on “the View”. Needless to say, my acceptance of Ann Curry took time. But, watching her cover major news story with the kind of excitement and passion that her co-workers reserved for talking to Justin Bieber I kind of admired her. But, then one morning when my buddy Lauren and I were there to see Shia Labeouf we watched as Ann made her round around the courtyard. While talking to an older woman, the woman passed out and nearly hit the ground. Ann held her up and then held her hand until paramedics arrived. Even after Matt Lauer, Al Roker and the other anchors ran inside, Ann remained outside with the swooning fan. From that point on, I loved her and was rooting for her.
Ann Curry and I during one of my Today Show visits last Fall. One of my many pleasant encounters with Ann.
So last week when her walking paper were signed and she signed off of “Today” I was really sad to see her go. As someone who wants to broadcasting and would love to do a national program like “Good Morning America” or “Today” I know that she had the dream job. So even if they created a lane just for Ann, it’s not the same. What I find most surprising is the amount of backlash, with ratings down I figured she would go out with a whisper and not a bang. But, the reaction has been very negative towards the morning show. It also doesn’t help that Ann’s tearful and open hearted goodbye paired with her dignified exit interview only made the anchor look even better. I have not bothered to tune in nor have I visited the studio since Ann signed off, but I can say confidently I do not envy Ann’s replacement. New comer Savannah Gutherie is in the hot seat and if they would can Ann after 15 years I think her head is on the chopping block if the ratings don’t go up or that chemistry magic doesn’t manifest soon. I do want to wish Ann the best in her future endeavors for NBC, she is one of the nicest, dignified and polished professionals out there. And she is in good company, standing alongside Conan O’Brien in people fucked over by NBC.
