Tamron Hall has reflected on her decision to leave NBC in 2017, despite being offered a lucrative contract to stay.
Speaking during a live episode of Scott Evans’ House Guest series, the journalist recalled receiving a text from her agent outlining the network’s offer including a $2 million annual salary after she was told she was being cut from her role.
Hall said she immediately texted her mother to share the news and ultimately declined the deal, explaining, “All money’s not good money.”
Hall shared that her mother’s words gave her strength at the time, reminding her of the importance of paving the way for other young Black women in journalism.
She explained that she didn’t want her departure to be seen as a loss, but rather as proof that her career wasn’t defined by one job.
NBC replaced Hall’s 9 a.m. slot with Megyn Kelly, a move criticized by the National Association of Black Journalists as “whitewashing.” The network defended its diversity record but later met with NABJ representatives after backlash.
Despite the controversy, Hall went on to thrive in her next chapter. She launched The Tamron Hall Show in 2019, which has since been renewed for its eighth season. Looking back, Hall says her decision to walk away was about integrity and self-worth rather than money.
By choosing to leave, she not only protected her own sense of purpose but also set an example of resilience and independence for others in the industry.