Katie Couric is preparing for a vibrant summer filled with family and fun at her recently renovated beach home in East Hampton, New York. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE during the Runway for Recovery event in New York City, the esteemed journalist discussed her plans for the season and the significant renovations she undertook before hosting a family reunion.
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Couric, who is 69 years old, acquired her charming beach property almost two decades ago, specifically in 2006. This home holds a special significance, as it was the very place where she exchanged vows with her husband, John Molner, during a picturesque backyard ceremony in 2014. Reflecting on her recent renovations, Couric expressed her excitement about revitalising her beloved space, which she described as needing a bit of a facelift.
The upcoming family gathering, set for August, has been playfully dubbed “forced family fun” by Couric, who is eager to reconnect with relatives while engaging in recreational activities such as pickleball. Notably, she spends much of her time at her Hamptons residence, despite primarily residing in New York City. Couric’s commitment to family connections highlights the importance she places on these gatherings, especially at a time when nurturing relationships is more significant than ever.
The East Hampton property is not only a holiday retreat but also a cherished site that honours the memory of her late husband, Jay Monahan. Following his untimely death from colon cancer in 1998, Couric created a dedicated room within the house to display Monahan’s treasured Civil War artefacts and collectibles. She articulated her desire to maintain a space that reflects his passions and serves as a remembrance of their life together, alongside their two daughters, Ellie and Carrie.
In a prior interview, Couric elaborated on her lifestyle at the Hamptons estate, particularly highlighting her thriving kitchen garden. “I have a really great vegetable garden,” she remarked, noting her enthusiasm for harvesting produce for weekend meals. This year, she found herself overwhelmed with kale, incorporating it into salads paired with dried cherries, cucumbers, and pecans, alongside her homemade pesto crafted from homegrown basil.
During the Runway for Recovery event, Couric made a significant impact as a spotlight model, joining over 85 participants to raise funds for families impacted by metastatic breast cancer. The event was dedicated to honouring those affected by this challenging disease while promoting community support. Couric, herself a survivor of breast cancer, demonstrates a powerful commitment to supporting individuals and families navigating such life-altering challenges.
In a heartfelt February Instagram post, Couric described her decision to renovate the East Hampton home—an initiative she referred to as finally “biting the bullet.” She proudly referred to the property as her “happy place,” symbolising the joy and solace it brings her and her family.
The summer ahead looks particularly promising for Couric, filled with family connections, a picturesque backdrop, and an opportunity for rejuvenation at her revitalised beach home. By sharing her renovations and personal experiences, Couric continues to inspire others while cherishing the bonds that unite her family. As she prepares to welcome loved ones this August, it is evident that this season holds significant value for the renowned journalist and her endeavours to create lasting memories at her beloved retreat.