Today

"Today" is a pioneering American morning television show that has become a staple of NBC's programming. Premiering on January 14, 1952, it holds the distinguished title of being the first-ever daily morning show in the genre, not just in America, but globally. Over the years, it has enjoyed an impressive run as the fifth-longest running television series in American history. Initially, the show aired on weekdays for two hours, but its popularity prompted an expansion to encompass Sundays in 1987 and Saturdays in 1992. The weekday broadcast further evolved, extending to three hours in 2000 and ultimately reaching four hours by 2007, allowing for more diverse content and extended interviews with guests, celebrities, and newsmakers that resonate with viewers.

For decades, "Today" consistently thrived in the ratings, dominating the morning television landscape with little competition until the late 1980s when it faced challenges from ABC's "Good Morning America." Despite this intensified rivalry, "Today" regained its prominence in the Nielsen ratings starting the week of December 11, 1995, reclaiming its top position and maintaining that lead for an astounding 852 consecutive weeks. This remarkable success story reflects the program's ability to adapt and innovate, staying relevant to audiences with its engaging blend of news, lifestyle segments, and interviews, while also fostering a strong connection with its viewers through its personable hosts.

In recognition of its cultural impact and relevance in television history, "Today" was ranked #17 on TV Guide's prestigious list of the 50 Greatest Television Shows of All Time in 2002. This honor underscores the show's significance in shaping morning television and bridging the gap between news and entertainment. Today’s format has influenced countless other morning shows that followed, setting standards for how to engage with audiences at the start of their day, ensuring that it remains a beloved institution in American media.

Main Cast of Today

Al Roker has been a staple of NBC's "Today" show for decades, bringing a blend of warmth, humor, and professionalism to his role as a co-anchor and weatherman. His performance as Self on the show is characterized by his innate ability to connect with viewers, making them feel as though they're receiving the weather report from a trusted friend. Roker's infectious laugh and genuine reactions to the show's many segments contribute to the morning show's lively atmosphere. Whether he's delivering weather forecasts with his signature enthusiasm or engaging in lighthearted banter with his co-hosts, Al Roker's presence on "Today" is a testament to his versatility as a broadcaster and his enduring appeal to audiences across the country. His ability to seamlessly transition from serious news to lighter, more jovial topics makes him a beloved figure in morning television, and his longevity on the show underscores his significance to the "Today" family and the broader NBC community.

Matt Lauer's tenure as a co-anchor on NBC's "Today" show was marked by his adept handling of a wide range of news stories, interviews, and live events, spanning over two decades. He brought a mixture of gravitas and approachability to the screen, which endeared him to viewers. His ability to seamlessly transition from hard-hitting news to lighter, human-interest stories showcased his versatility as a journalist and TV personality. Lauer's interviews with prominent figures, including U.S. presidents and Hollywood celebrities, often generated headlines, reflecting his knack for asking tough questions while maintaining a conversational tone. Despite his eventual departure from the show amid controversy, his impact on morning television and his role in shaping the "Today" show into a staple of American morning routines remain indelible. His performance contributed to the program's sustained success and high viewership, making him one of the most recognizable figures in television news during his time on air.

Natalie Morales brought a vibrant and insightful presence to the "Today" show as herself, contributing to the program's dynamic and engaging atmosphere. Her ability to effortlessly transition between hard-hitting news stories and lighter, more entertaining segments showcased her versatility as a journalist and television personality. Morales often displayed a genuine empathy and curiosity when interviewing guests, drawing out compelling narratives and fostering a connection with viewers at home. Her warm on-air demeanor, combined with her incisive reporting skills, helped to foster a sense of trust and reliability, making her a beloved fixture on the morning show landscape. Whether she was delivering breaking news updates or participating in lively discussions with co-hosts and guests, Natalie Morales consistently demonstrated professionalism and a deep commitment to keeping viewers informed and entertained.

Hoda Kotb has been a familiar and beloved face on NBC's "Today" show, where she serves as a co-anchor alongside Savannah Guthrie. Her performance as Self on the show is characterized by her warm and engaging demeanor, which has endeared her to viewers across the country. Kotb brings a sense of authenticity and empathy to her interviews, whether she's discussing lighthearted, everyday topics or delving into more serious and emotional stories. Her ability to connect with both guests and the audience is evident in her interactions, which are often highlighted by her infectious laugh and genuine curiosity. Hoda's on-air chemistry with her co-hosts and her ability to navigate the morning show's fast-paced environment with grace and professionalism make her a standout presence on "Today." Her dedication to sharing uplifting stories and her commitment to journalistic excellence have solidified her status as a trusted and admired figure in morning television.

Carson Daly's role as Self on NBC's "Today" showcases his versatility as both a media personality and a seasoned television host. With his approachable demeanor and engaging presence, Daly seamlessly transitions from conducting in-depth interviews with influential figures to presenting lighter, lifestyle-centric segments. His ability to connect with both guests and viewers is evident, as he brings a sense of warmth and authenticity to the screen. Whether he's discussing current events, sharing personal anecdotes, or contributing to the show's lively banter, Daly's contributions to "Today" are characterized by an easygoing charm and a genuine interest in the topics at hand. His tenure on the program reflects his ability to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of morning television, solidifying his status as a beloved and relatable fixture in American living rooms.

Barbara Walters's tenure as herself on NBC's "Today" show marked a significant era in television history, where she brought a blend of tenacity and empathy to her role as a broadcast journalist. Beginning in 1961, Walters initially served as a writer and researcher before becoming a co-host in 1974, making her the first woman to hold such a position on an American news program. Her performance on "Today" was characterized by her ability to conduct probing interviews with world leaders, entertainers, and other notable figures, securing exclusives and delivering them with a mix of intelligence and accessibility. Walters's on-air presence was both commanding and personable, setting a standard for future generations of broadcasters. Her insightful questions, paired with her distinctive voice and delivery, captivated audiences and played a crucial role in shaping the morning show format. Walters's time on "Today" was also marked by her ability to navigate through the traditionally male-dominated field of broadcast journalism, breaking barriers and establishing herself as a trailblazer for women in media.

Crew of Today