Who Is Katie Couric? Veteran Journalist Returns to NBC’s Today to Launch New Cancer Awareness Project

Katie Couric, one of America’s most recognizable broadcast journalists, has returned to NBC’s Today show after 25 years. She appeared on the morning program on September 25, 2025, to unveil a new health initiative focused on saving lives through cancer awareness and early detection.

The comeback is deeply personal for Couric. Her late husband, Jay Monahan, died of colorectal cancer in 1998. Since then, she has become one of the most prominent advocates for screenings and research, using her platform to educate millions about prevention and early diagnosis.

Katie Couric’s Impact on Cancer Awareness

Couric first made headlines in 2000 when she underwent a colonoscopy live on the Today show. That broadcast, widely covered by CNN and the Associated Press, was credited with increasing colon cancer screenings across the United States. Her efforts became known as the “Katie Couric Effect,” a term used in medical journals to describe how celebrity advocacy can improve public health behavior.

Her new initiative builds on that legacy. Today co-anchors Savannah Guthrie and Craig Melvin praised Couric’s return and confirmed her latest project aims to expand access to early cancer detection tools. Melvin, who lost his brother Lawrence Meadows to the disease in 2020, said he fully supports Couric’s new public service announcement and campaign.

Couric’s advocacy has long been rooted in personal tragedy. She has spoken about the pain of losing Monahan and her mission to help other families avoid the same fate. Over the years, she has also shared updates on her own health journey, including her preventive screenings and her commitment to public education on cancer risks.

Katie Couric’s Career Beyond Today

Couric co-hosted Today from 1991 to 2006, becoming one of the most influential figures in American morning television. She later made history as the first solo female anchor of the CBS Evening News. After leaving CBS, she launched the talk show Katie, and in 2017 she founded Katie Couric Media, a digital and documentary production company.

Her work often blends hard journalism with deeply personal storytelling. Couric has interviewed world leaders, covered major global events, and produced documentaries on health and social issues. She has also embraced digital media, reaching audiences through podcasts, newsletters, and streaming platforms.

Outside her career, Couric is a mother of two daughters, Ellie and Caroline, from her marriage to Jay Monahan. In 2014, she married financier John Molner. She frequently shares personal milestones and reflections on social media, connecting with audiences through honesty and empathy.

Why Katie Couric’s Return Matters

Couric’s new project arrives at a crucial time. Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, but early detection significantly improves survival rates. Her return to Today brings renewed attention to preventive screenings and could influence a new generation to take their health seriously.

Media experts note that Couric’s credibility and personal story make her a powerful advocate. Her involvement often turns a health campaign into a national conversation, as seen in the early 2000s. This latest initiative is expected to spark renewed public interest in colorectal cancer prevention and other life-saving screenings.

Katie Couric’s return to NBC’s Today is more than a homecoming — it’s a mission to save lives. By sharing her story and pushing for awareness, she continues to use journalism as a tool for public good.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who is Katie Couric?

Katie Couric is an award-winning American journalist and broadcaster. She co-hosted NBC’s Today from 1991 to 2006 and later anchored the CBS Evening News.

Q2: Why is Katie Couric an advocate for cancer awareness?

She became an advocate after losing her husband Jay Monahan to colorectal cancer in 1998. Her efforts focus on early detection and life-saving screenings.

Q3: What new project did Katie Couric launch on Today?

She unveiled a new health initiative aimed at increasing cancer awareness and promoting early screening to save lives.

Q4: Has Katie Couric influenced public health before?

Yes. In 2000, she underwent a live colonoscopy on Today, leading to a spike in screenings across the U.S. This became known as the “Katie Couric Effect.”

Q5: What else has Katie Couric done after leaving Today?

She anchored the CBS Evening News, launched a talk show, and created Katie Couric Media, producing documentaries and digital content.