Photo: Nathan Congleton/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty
TheToday Showhost marked her final day at NBC on Friday after more than two decades with the network. Before signing off on theTodayshow for the final time, Morales became emotional while reflecting on her time with the news organization.
“Dear viewers… 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,” Morales, 49, read on the show. “With you, I’ve had a front seat to moments that captured our hearts, moments I will forever cherish as I witnessed history.”
Last month, Morales announced that she was leaving the network after 22 years for a “new adventure.” She was aTodaycorrespondent for 15 years.
“I traveled the country with some of America’s leaders and covered the most incredible stories — like the rescue of 33 Chilean miners trapped underground for 69 days. Together we witnessed a miracle,” she said. “I have enjoyed two royal weddings and held court in London awaiting the first royal birth in decades. Events forever on my highlight reel.”
Morales continued: “So many extraordinary people touched our lives, trusting us with their awe-inspiring journeys.”
Natalie Morales/Instagram
Near the end of the message, Morales told viewers “you and myTodayfamily have given me a place I will forever call home” and thanked them for “all those morning and the lifetime of memories we now share.”
After the show, Morales shared photos with her now-former co-anchors on Instagram. She posted selfies with her “soul sister"Savannah Guthrieand with Maria Shriver andHoda Kotb. “I will miss these faces,” she wrote.
Though Morales is expected to continue appearing onDatelineas a correspondent until the end of the year, Morales has since joinedThe Talkas the newest co-host. She made her debut on Oct. 11.
“It’s an extraordinary opportunity to be joining this team atThe Talk,” Morales said in a statement when she confirmed the news. “I love the new energy and direction and couldn’t be more excited to join Sheryl, Amanda, Jerry and Akbar. I’m looking forward to many good times while talking about the days' topics, and I can’t wait to get going.”
source: people.com
