India, March 28 -- Peter Alexander is set to leave NBC News after more than two decades, marking a major shift for the network. Announcing his decision on Saturday, the popular host thanked viewers and the network. The 49-year-old said he wants to spend more time with his family.

Alexander also posted a message on social media. "Some personal news from me today: After 22 years, I am signing off from NBC News and the TODAY Show. I have had the most incredible experience with NBC News - from Baghdad to Banda Aceh, Burbank to Beijing - always alongside the best, most professional and most dedicated journalists in the business," he wrote in an Instagram post.

"I could not be more grateful for every one of them and for the leaders and mentor...