Peter Alexander Exits NBC News After 22 Years

Veteran journalist leaves to spend more time with family and pursue new challenges

Mar. 28, 2026 at 10:06pm

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After more than two decades, veteran journalist Peter Alexander has announced his exit from NBC News. Alexander, who joined Saturday TODAY in 2018 and was named NBC's co-chief White House correspondent in 2021, cited a desire to spend more time with his wife Alison and their two daughters Ava and Emma as the main reason for his departure.

Why it matters

Alexander's exit from NBC News after such a long tenure is notable, as he was a prominent figure covering the White House and national politics. His decision to step away from the high-profile role to focus on his family and pursue new opportunities reflects a broader trend of journalists and media personalities seeking better work-life balance.

The details

During his broadcast announcing his exit, Alexander revealed that he had been away from home more than 220 Friday nights in the last seven years due to the demands of his job. He expressed a wish to 'carve out a better balance' between his personal and professional lives and to 'challenge myself with something new'.

  • Peter Alexander joined NBC News in 2004.
  • He was named Saturday TODAY co-anchor in 2018.
  • Alexander was promoted to NBC's co-chief White House correspondent in 2021.
  • Alexander announced his exit from NBC News on March 28, 2026.

The players

Peter Alexander

A veteran journalist who has worked at NBC News for over 22 years, most recently as a co-chief White House correspondent.

Alison Alexander

Peter Alexander's wife, who is also an accomplished TV anchor.

Ava Alexander

Peter and Alison's eldest daughter, born in 2013.

Emma Alexander

Peter and Alison's younger daughter, born in 2015 with the middle name 'Pink' to honor her grandmother's maiden name.

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What they’re saying

“Alison and I met while we were reporters for competing stations in Seattle 15 years ago. She blew me off for most of a decade before I finally wore her down.”

— Peter Alexander

“My dad always took us to the Oakland A's games, and Ava just got her first Washington Nationals wiffle ball and bat. Still, I'm not sure how nine innings will go with the girls just yet. We've already taken Ava to Annie and The Wizard of Oz at The National Theatre. I'm hoping that tradition sticks.”

— Peter Alexander

What’s next

Peter Alexander has not disclosed any specific future plans, but has indicated he wants to spend more time with his family and pursue new challenges outside of his high-profile role at NBC News.

The takeaway

Alexander's decision to leave NBC News after over two decades reflects a growing trend among journalists and media personalities to prioritize work-life balance and family time, even when it means stepping away from prestigious positions. His exit highlights the personal sacrifices often required in the fast-paced world of television news.