Meredith Vieira is a name that has been a part of American television for decades. For decades, she’s been a staple in American households, guiding us through breaking news, heartfelt stories, and game show thrills. From her days as a hard-hitting journalist to her time as a beloved game show host, Vieira’s versatility and charm have made her one of the most recognizable faces on television.
Now at 71 years old, Meredith Vieira’s career spans nearly 50 years, and she’s amassed an impressive net worth of $45 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. But how did she build such a remarkable career and fortune? Let’s take a deep dive into the life and success of Meredith Vieira.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Meredith Vieira was born on December 30, 1953, in Providence, Rhode Island, to Edwin Vieira and Mary Elsie Rosa Vieira. Raised alongside her brothers Edwin, Jeff, and Steve (who passed away in 2014), Meredith grew up in a close-knit family that emphasized education and hard work.
Vieira’s journey into broadcasting began in 1975 at WORC radio in Worcester, Massachusetts. From those humble beginnings, she transitioned to television, working as a local reporter and anchor at WJAR-TV in Rhode Island. Her passion for storytelling and investigative journalism quickly became apparent, and soon CBS took notice.
Making a Mark in National News
Meredith’s big break came in the early 1980s when she joined CBS News as an investigative reporter. Her time in Chicago as a correspondent from 1982 to 1984 garnered national attention, opening doors for larger roles within the network. She became a correspondent for 60 Minutes and eventually co-anchored CBS Morning News in the early 1990s.
Her reporting style was sharp yet compassionate, a combination that resonated with audiences. But as much as Vieira thrived in hard news, the pull of more relaxed and conversational television drew her toward new opportunities.
The View: A New Chapter
In 1997, Meredith Vieira joined ABC’s groundbreaking new show, The View. As the original moderator and co-host, she played a pivotal role in shaping the program’s identity. The dynamic panel discussions tackled everything from politics to pop culture, and Vieira’s voice often served as the grounding force. She remained on the show until 2006, bringing a mix of humor, empathy, and insight to every episode.
The View wasn’t just another job for Meredith – it was a platform that allowed her to connect with millions. The role solidified her reputation as a versatile TV personality who could navigate both serious and lighthearted topics with ease.
The Today Show and Olympic Coverage
Meredith Vieira’s next major career move came in 2006 when she succeeded Katie Couric as co-anchor of NBC’s Today Show. Teaming up with Matt Lauer, she brought her signature warmth and intelligence to the program. Her five-year tenure at Today was marked by major interviews, in-depth reporting, and on-location broadcasts from global events.
One of Vieira’s standout moments at NBC was her coverage of four consecutive Olympic Games. From Beijing in 2008 to Sochi in 2014, she was there to deliver live reports and capture the excitement and emotion of the world’s largest sporting events.
During her peak years at NBC, Meredith reportedly earned an annual salary of $11 million. It was a well-deserved paycheck for someone who had become one of the network’s most trusted faces.
Game Show Queen: Who Wants to Be a Millionaire
Meredith Vieira’s career took a surprising and wildly successful turn in 2002 when she became the first host of the syndicated version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. For over a decade, she handed out life-changing sums of money to contestants, making the show a must-watch daytime hit.
Vieira’s natural rapport with contestants and her ability to build suspense made her the perfect host. She also served as co-executive producer of the show, further cementing her influence behind the scenes. Her work on Millionaire earned her two Daytime Emmy Awards.
Venturing Into Talk Shows and Beyond
In 2014, Meredith Vieira launched The Meredith Vieira Show, her own syndicated afternoon talk show. Though it only aired for two seasons (until 2016), the show allowed Vieira to showcase her interviewing skills and connect with audiences in a more personal way.
More recently, Meredith has been hosting the popular game show 25 Words or Less since 2019. The show’s playful format and Vieira’s enthusiasm have made it a hit with viewers looking for light-hearted entertainment.
Personal Life and Family
Meredith Vieira’s success isn’t limited to her professional life – she’s also known for her enduring personal relationships. In 1986, she married journalist and author Richard M. Cohen. The couple shared a deep bond and raised three children – Benjamin, Gabriel, and Lily. Sadly, Cohen passed away in 2024, marking a significant personal loss for Vieira.
Despite her demanding career, Vieira has always prioritized her family, often speaking about the importance of balance and cherishing time with her loved ones.
A Legacy of Excellence
Meredith Vieira’s journey from local radio to national television is a testament to her talent, resilience, and adaptability. Whether covering breaking news, hosting beloved game shows, or moderating spirited debates, she’s consistently proven why she’s one of America’s most beloved TV personalities.
With a net worth of $45 million, Meredith Vieira’s career reflects decades of dedication to her craft. As she continues to grace our screens, viewers can expect more memorable moments from this broadcasting legend.
Whether you’ve watched her on Today, The View, or Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, Meredith Vieira’s presence has left a lasting mark – and that’s a legacy worth celebrating.
