NBC: Savannah Guthrie officially named as Ann Curry’s replacement

NBC News officially named Savannah Guthrie as the co-host of the "Today" show on Friday, according to Politico.

Guthrie, who formerly worked on MSNBC's "Daily Rundown" will join Matt Lauer, Al Roker and Natalie Morales beginning on July 9, said Politico. She will also continue as NBC News' Chief Legal Correspondent.

NBC News President Steve Capus said in a statement, "In just a few short years Savannah has become a standout member of the news division as well as the ultimate team player," according to USA Today. "She's got an undeniable range, and she's earned the trust of the news community, her colleagues and our viewers alike."

The "Today" show's executive producer Jim Bell said, "She has a one-of-a-kind combination of sharp wit and approachability, and our viewers value her journalistic skills and legal background just as much as her humor and charm. She can effortlessly go from interviewing the Secretary of State to jumping Olympic-sized hurdles on the plaza," according to MSNBC.

More on GlobalPost: Ann Curry says goodbye to Today (VIDEO)

The Associated Press reported that Guthrie was in the chair vacated just yesterday by Ann Curry, who was co-host with Lauer for one year.

Curry made her tearful goodbyes yesterday, saying, "I'm sorry I couldn't carry the ball over the finish line, but man, I did try," according to Politico.

More on GlobalPost: Ann Curry gets $10 million payout from NBC

The change in co-hosts comes as the "Today" show faces a serious ratings challenge from ABC News' "Good Morning America," after holding on to the lead since the mid-1990s.