Emmy-winning television personality and former "Today" co-host Kathie Lee Gifford opens up about a surprising apology she received from longtime nemesis Howard Stern, revealing the power of forgiveness.
Kathie Lee Gifford has had her fair share of ups and downs in the entertainment industry, but one of the most unexpected turns came when her decades-long feud with shock jock Howard Stern took an unprecedented turn.
In her new book, "I Want to Matter: Your Life Is Too Short and Too Precious to Waste," Gifford shares how faith and forgiveness transformed her relationship with Stern. The feud had its genesis in 1995 when Gifford was chosen to sing the national anthem at Super Bowl XXIX, hosted by her husband, NFL star Frank Gifford. To her shock, she encountered a chorus of boos as she performed, later learning that Stern had instigated the audience's negative reaction.
Thirty years later, a pivotal encounter occurred when Stern appeared on "Today" to announce his role as a judge on "America's Got Talent." Inspired by her faith, Gifford decided to approach Stern and wish him well despite their past. Stern was taken aback by her kindness, leaving a heartfelt voicemail in which he apologized for his past behavior and expressed his desire for forgiveness.
Gifford explained that she had already forgiven Stern years before, having made a conscious decision to pray for him daily. This revelation stunned Stern, who had never expected such compassion from the person he had repeatedly maligned.
The apology opened the door to a surprising reconciliation. Gifford extended an invitation to Stern for dinner, which he accepted. Despite Stern's reputation for being eccentric, Gifford found him to be a complex and sensitive individual.
According to Gifford, her faith in God played a crucial role in her ability to forgive Stern. She believes that as we grow in our spirituality, we develop an understanding that those who hurt us are often driven by their own pain. By offering forgiveness, we liberate ourselves from the burden of resentment and bitterness.
Gifford's journey of forgiveness highlights the transformative power of compassion and the importance of releasing negative emotions that hold us back. She emphasizes that it is possible to find common ground even with those who have wronged us, and that genuine reconciliation can heal old wounds and create space for new beginnings.
Today, Gifford and Stern maintain a cordial relationship, with Gifford continuing to pray for him each day. She credits her faith with enabling her to see the good in everyone, regardless of their past actions.
