Katie Couric Returns to Today Show, Announces New Project

NEW YORK, NY — Katie Couric is set to return to the Today show on Wednesday to unveil her latest project aimed at raising awareness for colon cancer. This announcement was made by current hosts Savannah Guthrie and Craig Melvin, who expressed excitement about Couric’s return to her roots after 25 years.

Couric, who famously received a colonoscopy live on air in 2000, has been a prominent advocate for colorectal cancer research and awareness since then. Her live procedure significantly impacted public perceptions of the importance of screenings.

“A familiar face will be back here in her old stomping grounds,” Guthrie announced. “It’s been 25 years since she made history on the Today show when she got that colonoscopy live on the air.” Melvin emphasized the long-lasting effects of Couric’s actions, stating, “It moved the needle in terms of screenings around this country.”

Melvin teased a public service announcement produced by Couric, hinting at the focus of her new project without revealing too much. Couric’s dedication to this cause is deeply rooted; she lost her husband, John Monahan, to colorectal cancer in 1998, an event that shaped her commitment to advocating for the disease.

Couric co-hosted the Today show from 1991 to 2006 and later became the anchor of the CBS Evening News until 2011. She launched her own media company, Katie Couric Media, in 2017.

Reflecting on her past experiences, Couric said during her live procedure, “It really didn’t hurt. I felt a teeny bit of cramping. And I’m a big baby, so for me to say that, that’s a lot. By the way, this is why you need to get tested, because catching those growths before they turn into full-blown cancer is what it’s all about.”

Earlier this year, Couric paid tribute to Monahan on what would have been their 36th wedding anniversary, sharing heartfelt memories and photographs from their life together.

Fans can tune in to see Couric on the Today show this Wednesday at 7 a.m. ET on NBC.