Matt Lauer and Meredith Viera (courtesy of NBC)

Current news reader Ann Curry will replace Viera while Natalie Morales will replace Curry’s current role. In addition, the 9 A.M. hour will now be hosted by Al Roker, Morales, and Savannah Guthrie.

Viera said during the tearful announcement that she intends to spend more time with her husband and children. She added, “I want to stay in the NBC family, that is my goal, it just won’t be on the couch.”

Matt Lauer had plenty of kind words to say about his co-host. “We all feel blessed to have had the past 5 or 6 years with you,” he said. “Meredith is universally adored here at ‘Today.’” Curry added, “You have been a gift to this broadcast…and a great girlfriend.”

NBC’s number one morning show promises plenty of celebration and tributes over the next few weeks before Viera’s final show.

Viera originally came to “Today” after leaving “The View” and taking over for Katie Couric.

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