Today Show Shake-Up: Peter Alexander Leaves After 14 Years — Co-Stars Open Up About Heartfelt Farewell

Peter Alexander, the beloved NBC star, has announced his departure from Saturday Today, ending a 14-year run on the daytime show. After 22 years with NBC, Peter shared the news live on March 28 alongside co-host Laura Jarrett, citing family as his top priority.

The longtime anchor revealed he has spent over 80 nights away from home in just the past seven months — and more than 200 Friday nights away from his wife Alison Starling and their two daughters, Ava, 12, and Emma, 10, over the last seven years. “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,” Peter explained.

He is set to join MS NOW as Chief National Reporter, anchoring the 11am slot, marking a new chapter in his career while remaining closer to his family in Washington D.C.

Co-Stars React: A Flood of Praise and Love

Peter’s colleagues were quick to pay tribute. Laura Jarrett, sitting beside him during the announcement, told him: “Peter, we love you, we are going to miss you. You are a brilliant journalist. You are a good and decent man, and you are an extraordinary father.” She later added on Instagram: “This guy. So grateful to get to work alongside you, laugh with you, and now call you a friend for life. Can’t wait to watch you continue to do what you do best.”

Sheinelle Jones shared a heartfelt note alongside heart emojis: “Love you.” Carson Daly echoed the sentiment: “Family first. That’s why we’ll all miss you, you’re THAT guy.”

Peter’s Tribute to Savannah Guthrie

The departing anchor also reflected on his colleague Savannah Guthrie, whose mother, Nancy Guthrie, is currently missing. “NBC is at my core, through and through. I love everybody here. I had a chance to exchange messages with our friend, Savannah, who I love so much as well, and I’m thrilled that she’s going to come back here. We’ll continue to pray for her,” Peter said. Savannah responded warmly online: “The pro of all pros. And what a heart. We love you Pete.”

What’s Next for Saturday Today?

At this time, NBC has not revealed who will replace Peter. Laura Jarrett will continue as co-host, maintaining the show’s familiar energy while the network navigates this new chapter.

source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/