In the fast-paced world of television news, several well-known personalities are finding joy beyond the demands of their careers, celebrating a new chapter in life as grandparents. Prominent figures like Katie Couric, Al Roker, Gayle King, and Kathie Lee Gifford are embracing their roles as doting grandparents while sharing heartfelt moments with their grandchildren both on and off the screen.
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Katie Couric, formerly the anchor of the Today show, recently expressed her excitement over her first grandchild arriving in March 2024. Her daughter, Ellie, welcomed baby John Albert, affectionately known as Jay, on his due date. In a heartfelt social media post, Couric paid tribute to her late husband by naming the baby after him, reflecting on the family’s joy during this momentous occasion. Couric’s enthusiasm didn’t stop there; she shared a series of sweet photographs following Jay’s birth, including moments spent celebrating Easter together just a month later.
As the bond between Couric and her grandson deepens, she continues to share special family memories, such as a recent family vacation where the duo enjoyed a complementary stroll. In June 2026, Couric welcomed another grandchild into the fold when Ellie gave birth to a baby girl named Virginia Louise. The joy of becoming a grandmother has clearly made an indelible mark on Couric’s life.
Similarly, Gayle King, well-known as the anchor of CBS Mornings, has embraced her role as a grandmother since her daughter Kirby Bumpus welcomed her first child, Luca, in 2021. King diligently celebrates each significant milestone of Luca’s journey, describing her excitement on a podcast. She remarked on the joys of watching her daughter transition into motherhood, noting that Kirby and her husband are exemplary partners in parenting.
King’s family soon expanded again when Kirby had a baby girl named Grayson in 2024. Additionally, King announced that her son, Will, and his wife Elise are expecting their first child, making her a grandmother for the third time. Family gatherings, such as Mother’s Day celebrations, highlight the close connection King has with her children and grandchildren, showcasing a heartwarming tableau of familial love.
Al Roker, the beloved weatherman from Today, is also sharing in the joys of grandparenthood. Roker welcomed his granddaughter Sky Clara Laga in July 2023, recounting the magic of holding her in his arms shortly after her birth. Driven by a sense of nostalgia, Roker reflects on the similarities between holding Sky and the memories of holding his daughter, who is now a parent herself.
At only two years old, Sky already has a special place in Roker’s heart, and he often shares photographs capturing their adventures together, ranging from trips to parades to days at the zoo. Despite recent health challenges, including surgeries, Roker has expressed how his granddaughter reminds him of life’s joys. His upbeat remarks about grandparenting exemplify the light it brings into his life.
Lester Holt, the anchor of NBC Nightly News, is enjoying precious moments with his grandsons Henry, Sam, and James. During the pandemic, he fondly shared anecdotes about engaging them in his broadcasting work, recalling nostalgic reflections of his own experiences in television. Holt’s pride in family resonates as he affectionately refers to the special bond he shares with his grandsons, emphasising the joy they bring into his life.
Kathie Lee Gifford, known for her vibrant personality, has a brood of five grandchildren to dote on, sharing moments of unabashed love and joy through social media. Gifford’s family expanded when her children welcomed several children of their own. Her fondness for her grandchildren shines through in her online posts, where she often highlights the happiness they bring into her life.
Gifford’s grandchildren, including newborns and toddlers, feature prominently in her shared experiences, ranging from beach outings to heartwarming snapshots shared during family gatherings. Her celebrations of their milestones depict her deep connection with her family and the fulfilment grandparenting brings.
Finally, Joan Lunden and Jane Pauley, both recognised television personalities, also share tender moments spent with their grandchildren. Lunden boasts a large family with seven kids and four grandchildren, while Pauley gracefully balances her career and family, opting to keep her personal life a bit quieter. Nevertheless, both women relish family time through summer camps, meaningful activities, and tender memories captured in photographs.
As these notable figures navigate the beautiful journey of grandparenting, they not only bask in the joys of their families but also provide a glimpse into the affection and love that shape their lives away from the cameras. Their joyous experiences remind us that the bonds of family are what truly enrich one’s life, beyond career accomplishments and public personas.