VIDEO: Today Show Surprises Meredith Vieira With A Dancing Send Off
Jun. 8 2011, Published 9:45 a.m. ET
by RadarOnline.com Staff
The Today Show staff staged a sensational dancing farewell to Meredith Vieira on Wednesday to mark her final day on the program.
Vieira, 57, was visibly touched by the send off which started with Today Show co-host Matt Lauer handing her off to Ann Curry who whisked her down a flight of stairs and into New York’s famed Rockefeller Plaza.
As they strutted to Journey’s song (recently popularized on Glee), Don’t Stop Believin', more and more of her Today Show colleagues – all wearing ‘Love Meredith’ t-shirts – joined in the dance.
Celebs who took part in the emotional exit show included late-night host Jimmy Fallon, ageless Abe Vigoda and Jack Black. (Earlier, singer Carole King serenaded Vieira in the studio with her hit, You've Got A Friend.)
Watch the video on RadarOnline.com
At one point, all of the anchors gave Vieira heartfelt testimonials at what a passionate and inspiring woman she is.
“All of you I will put in my heart,’’ an emotional Vieira said following the riveting tribute.
Gorgeous MSNBC anchor and Today Show fill-in anchor Tamron Hall ( a personal favorite of RadarOnline.com’s) was among those joining in the mass dance and told us: “We were all crying as soon as we went to break. Meredith is amazing.. so nice and thoughtful. I have never met a person like her.”
Vieira had frequently mentioned that she’d like more time to spend with her husband Richard M. Cohen, who’s had bouts with multiple sclerosis and cancer; as previously reported, Ann Curry will take over Vieira's spot, while Today Show 9 am anchor Natalie Morales takes over Curry's news spot. White House correspondent and MSNBC personality Savannah Guthrie will take over the 9 am anchor slot.