Savannah Guthrie Reacts To Death Of NBC Colleague Who Tested Positive For Coronavirus
As the coronavirus continues to spread, a handful of celebrities have tested positive for the virus. Some famous names include Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, NBA star Kevin Durant, and the Archduke of Austria, Karl von Habsburg. Although it's understandable news surrounding these celebs are dominating headlines, it's also important to recognize people who work behind-the-scenes, too. One of those people is NBC staffer Larry Edgeworth, 61, who was employed for 25 years at NBC News as an audio technician before working in the equipment room. Sadly, Edgeworth has passed away from complications related to the coronavirus, NBC News Chairman Andrew Lack confirmed in a memo sent to staff on March 20, 2020. "Many of you were fortunate enough to work with Larry over the years, so you know that he was the guy you wanted by your side no matter where you were," Lack said in part, per NBC News. It was also revealed that Edgeworth had underlying health issues prior to his COVID-19 diagnosis.
Edgeworth, who leaves behind a wife and two sons, was beloved by many at NBC. This includes Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie, who shared a touching tribute in honor of his memory.
Savannah Guthrie shared a heartfelt tribute
Savannah Guthrie was heartbroken to learn about Larry Edgeworth's passing, taking to Instagram to share fond memories of her dear colleague. "My heart breaks this morning at the loss of NBC audio technician Larry Edgeworth (pictured right) due to COVID19," she captioned a shot of the audio technician. "I adored Larry. We traveled together for two straight months on a campaign in 2008 and he was always the most warm, most professional, most loving." She continued, "All hours of the day and night, no matter how hungry or tired or stressed we were – he was always a joy. He loved his work and excelled at it. He loved his colleagues and boy did we love him. Larry, dear, I will miss you. My deepest condolences and prayers to his family."
In addition to the heartfelt note, Guthrie posted a throwback shot of herself with Edgeworth and two other employees. "The good old days with Larry," she penned. "Rest In Peace."
NBC News' Andrea Mitchell got emotional
NBC News chief foreign affairs correspondent Andrea Mitchell said she was one of the "privileged" people at NBC who got to work with Larry Edgeworth, revealing in an emotional tribute on MSNBC that she was "always cheered and reassured knowing he was on the team in the field." She continued, as images of Edgeworth flashed across the screen, "He always had my back whether here in the U.S. or in the most dangerous situations around the world."
Similarly to Savannah Guthrie, Mitchell remembered Edgeworth for his kindness. "Larry was a gentle bear of a man, the heart and soul of our extended NBC family," the reporter shared. "He was a treasured colleague and I am terribly sorry for this unbelievable loss for his family."
Many viewers were moved by Mitchell's touching segment, with one person tweeting, "I am so sorry. This is so sad and such a loss for you all."
Larry Edgeworth won't be forgotten at NBC
Throughout Larry Edgeworth's 25 years at NBC, he touched a lot of hearts. Case in point: Countless NBC employees took to social media on March 20, 2020, to share moving eulogies. "Devastated. Larry was the guy," AM Joy star Joy Reid penned on Twitter. "This was my DUDE in Sanford covering Trayvon's murder & in so many places traveling to cover stories for @MSNBC. Just a lovable, hilarious, brilliant guy. Take coronavirus seriously please and damn that virus to Hell."
MSNBC correspondent Garrett Haake shared a sweet story about Edgeworth's mentorship, writing, "The man on the left is Larry Edgeworth. I met him as the sound tech on our team that covered the Romney campaign in 2012. He called me 'slim,' and helped me put together my first resume tape. He was SO proud of his kids. He was hilarious. Yesterday he lost his fight with COVID-19."
MSNBC reporter Trymaine Lee shared one of the most heartwrenching homages, tweeting, "This one really hurts. I worked with Larry for a few years in the field, and after we both had health scares, every time we saw each other we'd talk about staying alive for our families. He was a really good Brother. Damn."
Nicki Swift sends its condolences to Edgeworth's loved ones and NBC during this difficult time.