Ann Curry, the esteemed journalist, recently celebrated her 67th birthday on November 19, marking another milestone in a career that has spanned decades. While she may not be in the daily spotlight anymore, Curry’s contributions to the field of journalism continue to resonate. With an enduring passion for storytelling, her impact on the industry is undeniable, even as she pursues new endeavors beyond the traditional newsroom.
A Journey from Intern to Veteran Reporter
Curry’s journey in journalism began in 1978 when she started as an intern at KTVL, an NBC affiliate in Oregon. Even in her early years, Curry demonstrated the drive and determination that would propel her through the ranks. She quickly became the station’s first female news reporter, an accomplishment that set the stage for an extraordinary career. From KTVL, Curry moved to Portland’s KGW, where she worked as both an anchor and reporter, further establishing her presence in the field.
Her next move took her to Los Angeles, where she worked as a reporter for a CBS affiliate for six years. During this time, she earned two Emmy Awards for her exceptional reporting, underscoring her growing reputation as one of the industry’s leading journalists.
A Prominent Role at NBC News
In 1990, Curry joined NBC News, marking the beginning of a long and illustrious career with the network. Initially serving as a correspondent based in Chicago, Curry’s talents were soon recognized, leading her to anchor the morning show NBC News at Sunrise. She also became a frequent substitute for Matt Lauer on Today, solidifying her place as one of the most trusted faces in American broadcasting.
By 1997, Curry was promoted to the role of news anchor on Today, where she remained until 2011. In addition to her work on Today, Curry served as co-anchor for Dateline NBC and was a regular substitute anchor for NBC Nightly News. Her presence on NBC News was a mainstay, and her credibility as a journalist made her one of the most respected figures in television news.
An Emotional Departure from NBC
Despite her successful tenure at NBC, Curry’s departure from Today in June 2012 was both emotional and highly publicized. While the exact reasons for her exit remain unclear, it was widely speculated that internal tensions within the network played a role. Despite this, Curry continued to work with NBC News until January 2015, when she officially left the network.
Her departure was a difficult chapter in her career, but it didn’t mark the end of her journalistic journey.
A New Chapter: Advocacy and Continued Storytelling
Since leaving NBC, Curry has continued to make a significant impact on the media landscape. She founded a multi-platform media company, allowing her to pursue projects on her own terms. One of her notable ventures was producing the PBS series We’ll Meet Again, a show that explores the power of reunions and human connection.
Curry has also used her platform to advocate for the future of journalism. In a TED Talk, she discussed the importance of restoring trust in the media, a topic that remains critically important in today’s climate. Additionally, she hosted TNT’s Chasing the Cure, which focused on medical challenges and human resilience.
In 2022, Curry’s commitment to reporting on human suffering—particularly in war zones and during natural disasters—earned her the prestigious Murrow Lifetime Achievement Award from Washington State University’s Edward R. Murrow College of Communication. This recognition further solidified her legacy as one of the most dedicated and impactful journalists of her generation.
A Private Life, But No Less Impactful
Although Ann Curry remains relatively private on social media, she occasionally shares personal moments, such as a recent wintry photo and messages of warmth and safety. Her reserved nature has not diminished her influence or the lasting impression she has made on the world. She recently interviewed author Min Jin Lee, the writer behind Pachinko, for PBS Arts Talk, showcasing her continued engagement with important cultural conversations.
Curry’s career may have taken unexpected turns, but her dedication to journalism and her passion for telling meaningful stories continue to shape her path. Despite the challenges she’s faced, Ann Curry has persevered, leaving a profound and lasting mark on the industry.
