today savannah guthrie heartbreaking news

Savannah Guthrie bids farewell to co-star in heartfelt post alongside epic throwback photo

The Today co-anchor is incredibly close to her NBC colleagues

US Managing Editor
December 12, 2021

Savannah Guthrie has been working on NBC for many years and has formed close friendships with her co-stars.

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And on Friday, the Today co-anchor shared a heartfelt tribute to NBC News star Brian Williams on his last day.

Savannah took to Instagram to share a throwback photo of the pair together in 1996, with the mom-of-two sporting a brunette bob and a red blazer.

VIDEO: Savannah Guthrie shares rare glimpse inside family life

In the caption, the news journalist opened up about her first ever encounter with Brian, and told him that she will "never forget" the times they shared together while working on NBC News.

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She wrote: "This is the first time I met Brian Williams - it was 1996. I was a local reporter covering the political conventions.

"He was a rising star White House correspondent for NBC News. I was truly starstruck in my red blazer and news anchor bob.

Savannah Guthrie shared an incredible throwback photo with Brian Williams

"I could have scarcely imagined that one day, I would work with him and better yet, call him a friend. "Brian, you did so much for me at NBC News - encouraging me, giving me my first shots on debate nights and election nights and beyond.

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"I will never forget and always be grateful to you. Enjoy your “retirement” - can’t wait to see your next adventure." Fans were quick to react to the post, with one writing: "Love him! Miss him on NBC Nightly News.

today savannah guthrie brian williams

Today's Savannah Guthrie with Brian Williams 

Cheers to retirement BW!" while another wrote: "He is such an icon. Your gracious words are a perfect tribute to him." A third added: "Thank you Brian for your service."

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Brian announced at the beginning of November that he would step down from his program, MSNBC, after a five-year run and depart NBC News entirely at the end of the year.

Savannah with her current co-host Hoda Kotb

At the time, he wrote in a statement: "Following my reflection, and after 28 years with the company, I have decided to leave NBC upon the completion of my current contract in December.

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"I have been truly blessed. I have been allowed to spend almost half of my life with one company. NBC is a part of me and always will be."

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