Savannah Guthrie, who has been co-host for the “Today” show’s third hour, is movin’ on up to take Ann Curry’s spot opposite Matt Lauer.
The show has seen a dramatic decline in ratings since Curry took over the job; NBC is looking to shake things up a bit by changing up who Americans wake up to, and they feel Guthrie fits the bill nicely.
“She’s got an undeniable range, and she’s earned the trust of the news community, her colleagues and our viewers alike. I couldn’t be happier for Savannah and the entire ‘Today’ team,” NBC News President Steve Capus said.
Guthrie has been the chief legal correspondent for NBC News for the last three years, tackling White House news for them as well. She’ll still hold that title as well as perform her new “Today” duties.
While some are blaming Curry for the show’s decline–“Good Morning America” beat out “Today” in ratings this spring for the first time in 16 years–many attribute much of the show’s success to her, as she’s been a news anchor for over 15 years.
Twitter users aren’t happy about the change; one even called Savannah a “perky Katie wannabe”. Ouch.
Seeing Savannah Guthrie w/ Matt Lauer on @todayshow is like dad showing up with his new girlfriend before the divorce papers were signed.
“@USATODAY: Savannah Guthrie to replace Ann Curry as ‘Today’ co-host http://t.co/DRLEnqbn” big mistake–I like Guthrie, but not as an anchor
BigJ: Savannah Guthrie Next Leftist in Line to Anchor @NBC Today Show. Perky Katie wannabe http://t.co/jEXaCXrF#tcot#ocra
Savannah Guthrie replaces Ann Curry as Matt Lauer’s Today show co-host, at least until he turns on her.