May 23, 1962 - Hugh Downs is switching from “Tonight” to “Today.” NBC announced today that Mr. Downs would succeed John Chancellor as the host of the “Today” television program. The change is expected to take place on Sept. 10. Mr. Chancellor will return to service as a correspondent for NBC News. Mr. Downs has been the announcer on the “Tonight” show for several years, a role he will continue until he takes over the early-morning assignment. He also will continue as master of ceremonies for “Concentration,” a daytime game show on NBC.
