Katie Couric, co-host of the NBC 'Today' show, is seen during the broadcast of the programme at NBC's New York City studios yesterday.
NEW YORK (AP):
ON HER 15th anniversary on NBC's 'Today' show, Katie Couric told viewers yesterday she is leaving NBC to join CBS, where she will become the first woman appointed to anchor an American network evening newscast alone.
"I wanted to tell all of you out there who have watched the show for the past 15 years that after listening to my heart and my gut, two things that have served me pretty well in the past, I've decided I'll be leaving Today at the end of May," she said. "I really feel as if we've become friends through the years."
Hours later, CBS confirmed that she will be anchor and managing editor of the evening news. Couric, 49, will also do prime-time specials and contribute to '60 Minutes' as part of the five-year deal.
LONGEST-SERVING ANCHOR
Couric, longest-serving anchor in the 54-year history of 'Today', agreed to a salary near her current range of $13 million to $15 million for five years, according to a non-network person close to Couric, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Viewers have been drawn to Couric's ability to appear warm in lifestyle segments, but also smart and tough during political interviews.
Meanwhile, Meredith Vieira of the daytime chat show 'The View' appears close to accepting NBC's offer to replace Couric, probably in September, according to a person with knowledge of NBC's negotiations who spoke on condition of anonymity. Vieira has a news background as a former correspondent for '60 Minutes'.
An NBC spokeswoman, and Vieira's agent, Michael Glantz, said they would not comment on the succession.
