Why Bryant Gumbel Isn't In The Public Eye As Much Anymore

The long-running "Today" show is no stranger to controversy, scandals, and the occasional lapse into absurdity — take, for instance, that strange period in 1953 where the show's host was paired with a trained chimpanzee! While the behavior of some of the show's many hosts and co-hosts would probably raise some eyebrows, there's one figure whose infamy is almost as iconic as his name: Bryant Gumbel. Considered exceptionally difficult to work with — and boasting a notoriously tense relationship with his former co-host Kate Couric — Gumbel co-hosted "Today" for 15 years, eventually stepping down in 1997. And, while he hasn't disappeared from the limelight entirely, the former morning show star isn't as prominent as he used to be. This is why Bryant Gumbel isn't in the public eye as much anymore. #BryantGumbel #Today #Public Secret health scare | 0:00 'Shocking' behavior on Today | 1:24 Publicly supported Matt Lauer | 3:02 Focused on sports | 4:1