NBC TV's "Meet the Press" Host David Gregory was unceremoniously fired on Thursday causing a firestorm of recrimination. Chuck Todd, NBC political director, was named to replace the controversial host of the weekly Sunday news interview program that debuted on Nov. 6, 1947.

"Meet the Press" was a longstanding American classic that was the top-rated Sunday morning interview show in the nation for decades. It also was the longest running show of its kind.

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However, the death of host Tim Russert and replacement by news veteran Gregory translated into sagging ratings and criticism from high-ranking NBC brass. Gregory had been 11th moderator in the show's history when he took over the role in December 2008.

Bob Schieffer and CBS TV's "Face the Nation" along with George Stephanopolous and "This Week," rival Sunday news interview shows, had surpassed "Meet the Press" in ratings. Although these shows are not moneymakers, they are important for network news prestige, media analysts say. 

"Face the Nation" had around 3.35 million viewers on average this year with almost 3 million viewers last Sunday. "This Week" had more than 2.5 million viewers while "Meet the Press" had around 2 million viewers last week.

Gregory confirmed the firing with tweets Thursday to followers saying he was humbled and grateful for the opportunity. He said he loved journalism and being moderator of the show.

Although his contract extends seven more months, Gregory is expected to depart from NBC immediately. Deborah Turness, NBC News president, said Andrea Mitchell will host the show this weekend with Todd taking over Sept. 7.

Rumors had circulated for months that Gregory was on his way out the hosting door. Many of those in the industry called the process wicked and cruel with Greta Van Sustern of Fox News saying it was "drip, drip, drip" as NBC threw Gregory under the bus.

TagsDavid Gregory, meet the press, NBC, chuck todd, CBS, US TV, tim russert, george stephanopolous