In a significant change for NBC News, Peter Alexander has confirmed his departure from the weekend programme, Saturday Today. The long-serving journalist announced his decision during the broadcast on March 28, 2024. With an impressive career at NBC spanning over two decades, Alexander’s exit marks the end of an era for the show, on which he has co-anchored since 2018.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Peter-Alexander-033026-1-69a0fdd58e214032af45ec30e5b44524.jpg)
During his heartfelt farewell, Alexander expressed deep gratitude towards NBC, stating, “Honestly, we’re in the business of using words, I’ve got no words to describe what this place has meant to me.” He emphasised his love for his colleagues and shared his optimism about the future, referring to this transition as “not the end, it’s a beginning.” Viewers can expect to hear more about his next steps shortly.
Alexander joined NBC News in 2004 and has built a formidable reputation throughout his career. He initially reported on various significant news stories from around the world and became a White House correspondent in 2012. His role evolved over the years, and by 2021, he was serving as co-chief White House correspondent alongside Kristen Welker. Following a two-year period in that role, he became the sole chief White House correspondent, all while continuing his co-anchoring duties on Saturday Today.
In light of his decision to leave, Alexander cited a desire for a better work-life balance and the need to challenge himself with new opportunities. He revealed that much of his recent work has taken him away from his family, which includes his wife Alison Starling and their two daughters, Ava and Emma. Notably, he has spent over 220 nights away from home in the past seven years, and he found this increasingly difficult. “In this limited window before my daughters lose interest in hanging out with me,” he explained, it was time for a change.
Looking ahead, Peter Alexander’s future lies with MS NOW, previously known as MSNBC. He will take on the role of anchor for the 11 a.m. hour on weekdays, as well as serving as the network’s chief national reporter and a breaking news anchor. MS NOW President Rebecca Kutler praised Alexander’s versatility, commenting on his ability to cover a range of topics from lifestyle to politics and breaking news effectively.
Although the exact date for his start on MS NOW remains undisclosed, Alexander confirmed that it would be “soon.” He expressed enthusiasm for joining his new team, many of whom he has collaborated with throughout his journalism career. In a statement on social media, he reaffirmed his commitment to journalistic integrity, saying, “My fierce commitment to the facts remains unchanged.”
As for who will take over Alexander’s role on Saturday Today, NBC has yet to announce a replacement. Laura Jarrett, his co-anchor, expressed heartfelt sentiments during his farewell, commending his work as a journalist and as a father. “You are a brilliant journalist. You are a good and decent man, and you are an extraordinary father,” she said. This reflects the respect and camaraderie Alexander has fostered among his colleagues during his time on the show.
Peter Alexander’s departure from Saturday Today represents more than just a change in personnel; it marks a pivotal moment in his career as he prepares for new challenges ahead. His contributions to NBC News and Saturday Today will undoubtedly be remembered by viewers and colleagues alike. The forthcoming chapter of his journalistic journey is one to watch as he embarks on this new adventure with MS NOW.