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New “Today” Show Future Looks Bright With Savannah And Matt

Mike Vulpo |
July 7, 2012 | 11:41 a.m. PDT

Senior Entertainment Editor At Large

Savannah Guthrie and Matt Lauer (NBC)
Savannah Guthrie and Matt Lauer (NBC)
It’s no secret the “Today” show has had a few bumpy moments in the past few months. ABC’s “Good Morning America” recently beat “Today” in the ratings for the first time in 16 years. In addition, Ann Curry’s exit from her position as co-anchor left many critics and fans upset over the way NBC chose to handle the change.

On Monday’s “Today,” the morning show will begin with what some might say a new beginning. Savannah Guthrie will join Matt Lauer, Natalie Morales and Al Roker between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. as co-anchor. Looking forward, NBC’s highly profitable morning show may have what it takes to remain on top in the competitive morning show race.

In less than 20 days, the “Today” team will travel to London to cover the Olympic Games every morning. Fan favorite Meredith Viera will return to help in the coverage while “American Idol” host Ryan Seacrest will contribute reports.

The show’s morning concert series, held every Friday in the 8:30 half hour, continues to bring bigger names than “Good Morning America.” The show has already featured exciting performers including Usher, Chris Brown, Maroon 5 and Justin Bieber. Shakira and Matchbox 20 are scheduled later this summer.

Finally, producers are continuing to create intriguing segments including Jill Martin’s “Steals and Deals,” which is reminiscent of Groupon for TV viewers.  In addition, “Today’s Professionals” with Dr. Nancy Synderman, Star Jones and Donny Deutsch explores controversial topics with a variety of strong opinions from the three-person panel.

No show is perfect but looking ahead, “Today” has a talented group of faces both in front of and behind the camera. Besides, for loyal Ann Curry fans, her new title is “Today” Anchor At Large. She isn’t going anywhere.

 

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