Harry Smith Leaving NBC News After 12 Years — Watch His Emotional Today Show Sendoff

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Harry Smith is signing off from NBC News after 12 years. The beloved correspondent received an emotional sendoff during Friday’s Today show, where his colleagues got choked up sharing kind words about their time together.

“Harry has brought us some remarkable stories, finding people and places that stay with us forever, writing stories with such elegance and beauty that, frankly, no one can match,” Savannah Guthrie said. “And, of course, delivering them in that unforgettable voice. And Harry, has just been an amazing friend to us. We love you, Harry. Please don’t leave!”

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Following a look back at some of Smith’s most memorable contributions over the years, he offered a few words of his own: “I have nothing but gratitude. Every time I would come on this show, I was always welcomed so generously. I’ve had this unbelievable array of phenomenal experiences since coming to NBC. I’m really full of nothing but gratitude.”

So, what’s next for Smith? The news vet is returning to his alma mater, Central College in Pella, Iowa, where he’s going to teach a class about curiosity. “And I might write a book or two, we’ll see,” he added.

Prior to his 12-year stint at NBC News, Smith spent 17 years at CBS, where he hosted both CBS This Morning and The Early Show. All told, this ends Smith’s 43-year career as a TV news journalist.

Hit PLAY on the video above to watch Smith’s emotional sendoff, then drop a comment with your own memories of the longtime contributor below

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