Watch Weekend Today
- 2013
- 27 Seasons
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4.6 (112)
Weekend Today was a weekend morning news and lifestyle show that was broadcasted by NBC from 1987 until 1999. The show had a host of popular and respected journalists such as Ann Curry, Donna Miller, and Gretchen Carlson. Anita Colby was the initial host of the show, but she passed away in 1992, after which Ann Curry took over the reins.
Weekend Today featured the standard segments of most morning shows, including news and weather updates, sports, entertainment and lifestyle news, and interviews with guests. The show was shot primarily on location, rather than in a studio, which allowed for a more spontaneous and exciting feel.
The news and weather portions of the show were presented more casually and conversationally than most other news programs, which made it more accessible to viewers who may not typically watch traditional news programming. However, Weekend Today didnât compromise on delivering thoroughly researched and accurate information to its viewers.
In addition to the news, the show featured segments on lifestyle, such as cooking and fashion. There were also interviews with celebrities, authors, and experts in various fields, providing insights and advice to viewers.
One of the most popular aspects of Weekend Today was its entertainment segment, which showcased the latest in music, movies, TV shows, and other pop culture happenings. The segment reviewed new releases and highlighted up and coming artists.
Another standout feature of Weekend Today was its âfree-for-allâ open phone line, where viewers could call in and express their opinions on current events and news stories. The segment was unscripted and gave everyday people a chance to voice their opinions in a national forum.
The show also felt more inclusive than many of its contemporaries, with correspondents stationed across the country. This allowed for greater representation of various regions, as well as the opportunity to highlight cultural differences and unique traditions.
Anita Colby, the original host of Weekend Today, was a former model and actress who had appeared in several movies, including Hit the Deck and Our Very Own. After ending her career in Hollywood, Colby became one of the first female television producers, working for CBS and then NBC. She brought a sense of glamour and refinement to the show, and her personality and professionalism made her an early fan favorite.
When Ann Curry took over hosting duties following Colbyâs passing, she brought her own unique style to the show. Curry had previously worked as a reporter in Oregon and Kansas before joining NBC News in 1990. She had experience covering significant events such as the Gulf War and the 1992 Presidential election.
During her time on Weekend Today, Curry became known for her empathy and compassion, qualities that would later make her a standout correspondent for NBC News. She also brought an intellectual curiosity and thoughtfulness to the show, often taking deep dives into topics and asking thought-provoking questions.
Overall, Weekend Today was a groundbreaking and influential morning show that helped set the standard for the genre. It combined a casual and conversational tone with thorough and accurate reporting, all while showcasing the latest in pop culture and lifestyle trends. The showâs diverse and inclusive representation, as well as its focus on giving a voice to everyday people, made it ahead of its time and still relevant today.