Legendary broadcaster Connie Chung sat down with Hoda and Jenna to discuss her new memoir and opened up about her legendary career, breaking barriers and prioritizing her career over getting married and having children, and how everything changed after she adopted her son. Chung then stayed around to play a game of Prompter Wars!
Connie Chung is a trailblazing journalist and news anchor whose career spans several decades, marked by numerous achievements and groundbreaking moments. She has always inspired me over the years. Here’s a look at her success story:
Connie was born on August 20, 1946, in Washington, D.C., to Chinese immigrant parents. She attended the University of California, Berkeley, where she earned a degree in journalism. Her early interest in storytelling and current events laid the foundation for her future career in broadcast journalism.
Chung began her career in journalism as a reporter for a local television station in San Francisco. Her tenacity and talent quickly caught the attention of larger networks. She worked for several news organizations, including the CBS Evening News, where she gained valuable experience.
Chung made history in 1983 when she became the first female anchor for the CBS Evening News. Her presence on the network marked a significant shift in the male-dominated field of television news. She earned a reputation for her insightful reporting and ability to tackle complex issues.
Throughout her career, Connie has conducted several high-profile interviews, including notable figures like Floyd Mayweather Jr., Newt Gingrich, and the Dalai Lama. One of her most memorable moments was interviewing Gary Hart during the 1988 presidential campaign, which gained significant attention.
Chung later joined CNN as a co-anchor for CNN Evening News and later hosted Connie Chung Tonight. In the late 1990s, she moved to NBC, where she co-anchored NBC Nightly News and hosted the acclaimed documentary series Connie Chung Tonight.
Chung has been open about the challenges she faced as a woman of Asian descent in a predominantly white industry. Her perseverance and dedication to her craft have inspired many aspiring journalists, especially women and minorities.
Connie Chung’s impact on journalism is profound. She broke barriers for women in news, paving the way for future generations of female reporters and anchors. Her commitment to telling compelling stories has made her a respected figure in the media landscape.
Throughout her career, Chung has received numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards and the Edward R. Murrow Award for excellence in journalism. Her contributions to the field have solidified her status as a legendary broadcaster.
Connie Chung’s success story is a testament to her talent, resilience, and groundbreaking role in journalism. Her journey continues to inspire many, highlighting the importance of diversity and representation in the media. See more inside…
Hoda Kotb, Savannah Guthrie and Connie Chung
(Photos by: Nathan Congleton/NBC)
