Meredith Vieira is a prominent figure in American television, known for her engaging presence and versatile skills as a journalist and television host. With a career spanning several decades, she has become a household name, captivating audiences through various platforms. From her early beginnings to her current endeavors, Vieira's journey is not just about fame; it is also about resilience, talent, and making a mark in the competitive world of media.
Meredith Vieira at a Glance
Meredith Vieira is often recognized among the richest celebrities in the entertainment industry, boasting a remarkable net worth of $45 million. Her career highlights include significant roles as the moderator of the daytime talk show "The View" and co-host of "Today", where she earned an impressive annual salary of $11 million at her peak. Born on December 30, 1953, in Providence, Rhode Island, Vieira has established herself as a leading journalist, actor, television producer, game show host, presenter, talk show host, and voice actor.
Early Life and Education
Meredith Vieira was born as Meredith Louise Vieira to Portuguese American parents, Mary and Edwin. Growing up in a family that valued education, she attended Quaker schools and excelled academically, scoring 1330 on the SAT during her junior year. She later attended Tufts University, graduating magna cum laude with a bachelor's degree in English in 1975. Such a strong educational background laid the foundation for her successful career in broadcasting.
Career Beginnings
Vieira's broadcast career began in 1975 at WORC radio in Worcester, Massachusetts. She quickly transitioned to television, securing a position as an investigative reporter at WCBS-TV in New York City in 1979. Her dedication and hard work led her to become a correspondent for the CBS investigative news show "West 57th" from 1985 to 1989, and she even hosted "60 Minutes" until she took a break to focus on her family.
The View and Beyond
In 1997, Vieira became moderator of ABC's "The View", a role that further solidified her status in television. She opened and closed the show, guiding discussions among the hosts. After leaving "The View" in 2006, she joined NBC's "Today", where she took part in significant events like the Olympic Games. Her hosting of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" earned her two daytime Emmy awards, showcasing her talent as a game show host.
Achievements and Recognition
- Two Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Game Show Host.
- Served as co-host for NBC's "Today" and anchored "Dateline".
- Hosted "The Meredith Vieira Show" from 2014 to 2016.
Personal Life
Meredith Vieira met journalist Richard M. Cohen while working at CBS, and the couple married in June 1986. They have three children, one of whom, Gabe, followed in their footsteps to become a reporter. Despite facing personal challenges, including Richard's health issues, their family remains strong and supportive of each other's careers.
Real Estate Ventures
In addition to her career, Vieira has made significant investments in real estate, owning properties in Westchester County, New York, a penthouse in Manhattan, and a home in the Hollywood Hills. Their NYC penthouse, purchased for $8.5 million, is located in the prestigious Eldorado building, while their Westchester estate was acquired for $2.1 million.
Final Thoughts
Meredith Vieira's career is a testament to her dedication, talent, and versatility in the entertainment industry. From her humble beginnings to becoming a prominent television host, she has continually pushed boundaries and inspired many. Vieira's story serves as a reminder of the impact one can make through hard work and passion, and her journey is far from over!
