Hey there, let's talk about something that's making waves in the media world. It seems like there's a bit of a stir going on over at NBC. According to the latest scoop, Megyn Kelly, the star of the Today show, won’t be joining her co-stars in PyeongChang, South Korea for the 2018 Winter Olympics. That's right, folks, she's staying behind in New York City while the rest of the team heads out to cover one of the biggest sporting events of the year.
Fox News has been hearing whispers from insiders at NBC News, who claim this situation is "incredibly embarrassing for Megyn." You see, it's almost like an unwritten rule in the broadcasting world: if you're anyone important at NBC, you're expected to be at the Olympics. It's not just about the sports; it's about being part of the global celebration, soaking up the atmosphere, and bringing that energy back to your audience.
What's the Deal with Megyn Staying Behind?
Now, let's dive a little deeper into this story. The Hill columnist Joe Concha chimed in, pointing out how odd it seems that Megyn, who is the highest-paid Today star with a reported $23 million annual salary, isn't making the trip. Megyn's ratings have been showing some improvement lately, especially since her show, Megyn Kelly Today, has been focusing on the sexual harassment issue. But Joe argues that she could still benefit from the kind of exposure and interviews that only come from being physically present at the Olympics. It’s not just about the ratings; it's about making a lasting impression on viewers.
Read also:Jane Fonda Reflects On Megyn Kellys Career Journey Amidst Past Tensions
Carson Daly, Matt, Hoda, and Megyn on Today. (Photo Credit: Getty Images)
Who's Heading to South Korea?
While Megyn, 47, stays behind in NYC alongside Kathie Lee Gifford and Jenna Bush Hager, a star-studded lineup from the Today show is set to travel to South Korea. Hoda Kotb, Savannah Guthrie, Al Roker, Natalie Morales, Willie Geist, Craig Melvin, Lester Holt, and Dylan Dreyer will all be there, covering the action from Friday, Feb. 9 to Sunday, Feb. 25. As Sports Illustrated media guru Richard Deitsch pointed out, NBC traditionally brings its most high-profile personalities, especially from their morning shows, to events like the Olympics.
But why isn't Megyn making the trip? Well, that's where things get a little murky. While we don't have all the answers, some people have speculated that NBC either didn't think she was the right fit for the job or that Megyn herself chose to stay home. Media analyst Jeff McCall suggested, "I sense that NBC feels Megyn could be a lightning rod and distract viewers from the feel-good nature of Olympics coverage." Deitsch added, "Megyn has as much credentials to go to South Korea as anybody else on the Today show."
A Familiar Face Returns
Interestingly, former Today star Katie Couric revealed on Wednesday, Jan. 17 that she's returning to NBC to co-host the Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony with NBC Sports emcee Mike Tirico. "During my years at NBC, I loved covering the Olympics and showcasing the hard work, dedication, and perseverance of athletes from around the world," she said in a statement. "The Opening Ceremony will be a chance for South Korea to share its culture and customs and for the international community to celebrate this unparalleled display of athletic achievement and sportsmanship. There's nothing quite like it." And let's face it, we can't wait to watch!
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