Harry Smith Leaving NBC News After 12 Years — Watch His Emotional Today Show Sendoff
Harry Smith is signing off from NBC News after 12 years. The beloved correspondent received an emotional sendoff during Friday’s Today show, where his colleagues got choked up sharing kind words about their time together.
“Harry has brought us some remarkable stories, finding people and places that stay with us forever, writing stories with such elegance and beauty that, frankly, no one can match,” Savannah Guthrie said. “And, of course, delivering them in that unforgettable voice. And Harry, has just been an amazing friend to us. We love you, Harry. Please don’t leave!”
Following a look back at some of Smith’s most memorable contributions over the years, he offered a few words of his own: “I have nothing but gratitude. Every time I would come on this show, I was always welcomed so generously. I’ve had this unbelievable array of phenomenal experiences since coming to NBC. I’m really full of nothing but gratitude.”
So, what’s next for Smith? The news vet is returning to his alma mater, Central College in Pella, Iowa, where he’s going to teach a class about curiosity. “And I might write a book or two, we’ll see,” he added.
Prior to his 12-year stint at NBC News, Smith spent 17 years at CBS, where he hosted both CBS This Morning and The Early Show. All told, this ends Smith’s 43-year career as a TV news journalist.
Hit PLAY on the video above to watch Smith’s emotional sendoff, then drop a comment with your own memories of the longtime contributor below
A true Journalist, not like the pretenders on CNN and Faux news.
The last time I saw Harry Smith was when he partnered with Paula Zahn on the CBS Morning Show that aired back in the day.
IMO, all news entities have more than their share of issues. That is why I try and watch a lot of different news sources to make sure that I can become as well informed as possible. In addition, some news organizations don’t cover what other news organizations cover. Unfortunately a lot of what is considered news, is nothing more than opinion. I can do without all of the opinion programming. .
I’ve watched Harry most of my life on CBS and NBC. Always enjoyed his “rel laxed, not flashy” style and commitment to journalism! I wish him all the best in his next chanter.
Harry Smith will be greatly missed. Very few journalist were able to show us the wonderful stories the way that he did. Wishing him well in his future endeavors
Have always enjoyed his shows. Harry has always had a very special way to say things. He will be missed but he has earned the right to have time for himself. Would love to take his class. It will be the best.
Loved the fact that Harry Smith did a tough bike ride event some years ago!
What a loss for us. I’ll miss his extraordinary stories. Wish him the best.
Harry, I love your heartwarming newsstories!
Thank you Mr. Smith for your excellence and integrity in broadcasting. I always looked forward to your reporting. Enjoy your next phase of life.
Harry did it all with style and grace and love, just like Sinatra, and he’ll be missed, but never forgotten. May his new journey bring him as much joy and happiness as he’s so eloquently brought to us. We love you 💕
Confirmation bias strikes again! I was just wondering about Harry Smith! Class act! Semi-retirement sounds good! Good for him!
Harry,you still owe me 10 bucks from our tennis match.I’ll give you a rematch but it’ll have to be pickleball.Or was it Ithaca beating Central?Congratulations big guy.Hi to Andrea and your family.Mike Tirico sent me some pictures of the event for her recently. Our family is good and growing,another granddaughter on the way. My 2 boys running the station WXHC X101. I’m still working a little and we are in Florida right now. All the best Harry because you are the best. I would love to hear from you when you get a chance.John Eves
Worked with Harry when he was in Denver as a host on KHOW radio (with an adult contemporary music format). Genuinely nice fellow and has been a definite plus to both CBS & NBC television throughout the years.
Great guy who’s been around the world a few times and shares his stories with such grace, kindness and compassion! Harry, thanks for the ride!! Blessings and good health along the way!!