Ann Curry Speaks Out: Former 'Today' Host Breaks Her Twitter Silence

Ann Curry spoke out on Wednesday for the first time since she left the "Today" show.

Last week, a tearful Curry bid viewers farewell after 15 years on "Today." After spending 14 years as the show's newsreader, Curry was finally promoted to co-host after Meredith Vieira left the show in June 2011. It was a bumpy year for Curry, who often found herself the focus of negative press, criticizing her performance, chemistry with co-host Matt Lauer, and even holding her responsible for "Today's" slipping ratings. In a protracted and somewhat brutal negotiating process, NBC News executives decided to replace Curry with her "Today" colleague, Savannah Guthrie.

Curry took to Twitter to get back in touch with her fans. "236 years old and just getting started. Happy 4th America. You are beautiful," Curry tweeted. She also responded to a student who called her an "inspiration," telling him to "study hard" because "this world needs great journalists." Though Curry has a regular presence on Twitter, she had not sent a message since June 22, 2012.

Though Curry left her perch as co-host, she will remain a part of the "Today" show family at NBC News. She will be a national and international correspondent and has a few new titles including "Today anchor at large." The "Today" show's new lineup with Guthrie in the co-hosting chair, will debut on Monday, July 9.