Today's Peter Alexander Announces Departure After 22 Years at NBC

The journalist is leaving his role as Saturday anchor to join MS NOW as host and chief national reporter.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 7:34pm

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An abstract close-up image of shattered glass and glittering sequins, captured in dramatic studio lighting to create a high-fashion, glamorous aesthetic that conceptually represents the world of television news.The departure of a longtime TV news anchor signals the industry's evolving priorities around work-life balance.NYC Today

Peter Alexander, who had anchored Today on Saturdays since 2018 and worked at NBC News for 22 years, bid farewell to the network and announced a new role at MS NOW. Alexander cited wanting to spend more time with his family in Washington, D.C. as the reason for his departure from the show.

Why it matters

Alexander's exit from Today marks the end of an era for the long-running morning show, as he was a familiar face to viewers for over two decades. His decision to prioritize his personal life over the demanding travel schedule of his NBC role reflects a broader trend of TV personalities seeking better work-life balance.

The details

During his final broadcast, Alexander shared that he had been away from home more than 80 nights in the last seven months and more than 200 Friday nights in the last seven years due to the commute from Washington, D.C. to New York City. He expressed a desire to 'carve out a better balance' between his professional and personal lives, especially before his daughters lose interest in spending time with him.

  • Alexander announced his departure during the March 28 broadcast of Today.
  • The next day, it was confirmed that Alexander is joining MS NOW as host of the network's 11 a.m. broadcast and as their Chief National Reporter.

The players

Peter Alexander

A journalist who had anchored Today on Saturdays since 2018 and worked at NBC News for 22 years.

Alison Starling

Alexander's wife.

Ava and Emma

Alexander's two daughters.

Laura Jarrett

Alexander's longtime co-anchor on Today.

MS NOW

The network that Alexander is joining as host of the 11 a.m. broadcast and as their Chief National Reporter.

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What they’re saying

“You are a brilliant journalist. You are a good and decent man, and you are an extraordinary father. You only get one shot to be Ava and Emma's dad, 200 nights is a long time. They are lucky to have you as their father.”

— Laura Jarrett, Co-anchor, Today

“I got no words to describe what this place has meant to me. NBC is at my core through and through. I love everybody here. I wish everyone continued success.”

— Peter Alexander

What’s next

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The takeaway

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