Kathie Lee Gifford's morning TV legacy will outlast her critics

The Washington Post

There's a reason Gifford saw success for 15 years on ABC's Live With Regis and Kathie Lee and 11 years with Hoda Kotb on Today, despite being the butt of jokes on SNL, Jay Leno's Tonight Show and former Washington Post TV critic Tom Shales. "The thing that made Gifford the perfect target for comedians is also what has made her a must-watch TV personality since 1985 and will define her legacy: She has always been, for better or worse, completely and unabashedly herself," says The Post's Emily Yahr, adding: "The always-bubbly Gifford told viewers everything about her life, often sharing too many details. To some, she was a delight. To others, she was incredibly irritating. But she was always honest...Gifford’s polarizing personality has earned her a lot of attention, which partially explains her success in the entertainment industry — even if people are saying negative things, at least they’re talking about you." ALSO: If anyone could be "over-farewelled," it has been Kathie Lee Gifford.