In a historic milestone for NBC’s flagship morning program, the TODAY show broadcast all four hours live from Ireland on Friday, Oct. 16, 2026. Marking the first time in the show’s 75-year history that an entire four-hour block has been produced from the Emerald Isle, the special event brought the full anchor team to the scenic landscapes of County Kerry to celebrate Irish culture, heritage, and traditions.
The broadcast was headquartered at the five-star Sheen Falls Lodge in Kenmare, a luxury property overlooking Kenmare Bay and the Sheen River. Sponsored by Tourism Ireland, the production aimed to showcase the island’s diverse beauty to TODAY’s audience of more than 3 million viewers, spanning from the Wild Atlantic Way to Ireland’s Ancient East.
Iconic Landmarks and Wild Atlantic Adventures
The TODAY crew-including Savannah Guthrie, Craig Melvin, Al Roker, Jenna Bush Hager, Sheinelle Jones, Dylan Dreyer, and Carson Daly-ventured across the country to highlight Ireland’s natural wonders. Savannah Guthrie visited the iconic Cliffs of Moher in County Clare. After a ferry ride from Kenmare via the Doolin Ferry, Guthrie described the 700-foot-high UNESCO Global Geopark as incredible.
Other featured locations included:
- Adare Manor: Showcasing the world-class golf course and local luxury.
- Dingle: Home to the historic Coláiste Íde, where Jenna Bush Hager participated in an Irish-language lesson with students Lorna de Barra and Nancy Ní Chonaill.
- Kenmare: Serving as the primary base for the broadcast team.
Cultural Immersion and Local Traditions
Beyond the scenery, the program focused heavily on local people and customs. NBC News Chief International Correspondent Keir Simmons joined the team to provide historical context, while local experts shared insights into the country’s heritage.
Food and local life were central themes. The broadcast featured Irish chefs Mark Moriarty, Gemma Stafford, and Mark Treacy, who highlighted the island’s culinary excellence. Al Roker connected with local life through a visit to a dairy farm, while Carson Daly used the opportunity to trace his own Irish roots. The program also touched on unique traditions, such as the sheepherding practice and a visit to Crowley’s Bar.
Special Guests and Historic Moments
The special broadcast was bolstered by celebrity appearances and cultural stories. Actor Domhnall Gleeson was among the notable guests who stopped by the set. Additionally, the show highlighted the Mayo football team’s historic All-Ireland championship win, which ended a 75-year drought.
The morning broadcast kicked off under the glow of two rainbows, a sign Savannah Guthrie noted as Ireland showing its best.
Technical Innovation: The Bespoke TODAY Desk
To maintain production standards while abroad, a custom broadcast desk was commissioned specifically for the trip. Crafted by Kerry Hills, the Bespoke Marquetry Broadcast Table was designed to reflect the local environment. The woodwork draws inspiration from the rolling hills and mountains of Kenmare, featuring the TODAY logo set against a horizon line that mimics the landscape.
“To have one of America’s most iconic morning programmes broadcast live from our hotel, and from Ireland for the first time, is an incredible honour,” said Brian Loughnane, General Manager of Sheen Falls Lodge.
Tourism Ireland’s Executive Vice President, Alison Metcalfe, expressed delight at the partnership, noting that the broadcast serves as a powerful tool to inspire global travelers to experience Ireland’s warmth and hospitality firsthand.
