JOURNALIST Natalie Morales announced on October 1, 2021, that she was leaving the Today Show after two decades.
Natalie served as the West Coast host of the NBC program and also as a Dateline correspondent.
Natalie Morales left the Today Show to pursue other projects and is wrapping up her work on Dateline.
The 49-year-old will continue to appear on Dateline’s 30th season throughout the rest of the year.
Morales is co-hosting The Talk and debuted on the show on October 11, 2021.
In an introductory video ahead of the first show, she said: “Hey guys you may know me from the Today Show but now I’m here at The Talk! “Fun fact Friday – a lot of you may know I love to sing and I love to sing out loud.
“I’m a terrible singer and the fun fact is I was once teased by Liza Minnelli once. She gave me a singing lesson on the Today Show and she actually told me to stop singing!”
Executive producers Heather Gray and Kristin Matthews revealed in a statement: “We couldn’t be more excited to have Natalie Morales join the Talk family.
“We have been fans of her and her work for years. Her varied skillset and versatility are a great addition to our talented panel.
“Natalie’s intelligence, passion and enthusiasm always shine through in all her work, and we are fortunate to have her on the team. In addition to her role as an exceptional broadcaster, we believe her perspective as a wife and mother will provide a special connection with our audience.”
Natalie confirmed her departure from the Today Show in a statement sent to her coworkers: “To my Dateline and Today show families, it’s very hard to say goodbye…
“And we all know in this business it’s never goodbye but see you later.
“I’m eternally grateful for the support and deep friendships that will remain no matter where our paths lead.
“I struggle to find the right words and there are way too many people I need to thank for a wonderful career at NBC News.”
Natalie has a reported net worth of $18million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
She has a salary of $6million anchoring for NBC.
Morales is married to financial businessman Joe Rhodes since 1998 and the pair has two sons, Joseph and Luke Rhodes.
Morales, on the morning of her departure, had a message of gratitude to share with viewers.
She said, “From the minute I stepped in front of the camera and into your living rooms, I knew it was an honor to be part of your morning tradition, the most sacred time.”
In reflection of her time at NBC’s Today show, Morales also highlighted her most notable reports, saying, “I traveled the country with some of America’s leaders and covered the most incredible stories… Together we witnessed a miracle. I have enjoyed two royal weddings and held court in London awaiting the first royal birth in decades.”
As a final note to viewers, Morales said: “Dear viewers, you and my TODAY family have given me a place I will forever call home. Thank you for all those mornings and the lifetime of memories we now share. With all my love and gratitude, Natalie.”
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