NBC News host Vicky Nguyen has responded to a viewer who criticized her on-air interaction with Carson Daly, calling her comments "insufferable" and "patronizing." The exchange occurred on Friday's "Today" show during the "Best Ways" segment, which features life hacks and expert advice.
During a discussion about barbecuing tips, Nguyen made a sarcastic remark to Daly, saying, "Thank you for mansplaining that, Carson." Daly took the comment in good humor, responding that he was simply "passionate about the grill." The other hosts present, including Al Roker, Laura Jarrett, and Craig Melvin, shared in the lighthearted moment.
However, the interaction did not sit well with one viewer, who emailed Nguyen with their grievances. Nguyen shared a screenshot of the email on Instagram, detailing the viewer's complaints. The email stated that Nguyen owed Daly an apology for the "mansplaining" comment and called her reporting "incredibly patronizing," suggesting it treats viewers "as if we're idiots."
The viewer further suggested a co-host should tell Nguyen, "Thanks for the elite-splaining that to the unwashed masses" and urged her to "get off her high horse." The email concluded with the sender's belief that the message would likely only be read by an assistant.
Nguyen, who joined NBC News in April 2019 as an Investigative and Consumer correspondent, captioned the screenshot with "It’s hard out here for a consumer reporter." Daly later commented on Nguyen's post, playfully writing, "I see you got my letter! Love ya, Vicky," to which she replied, "Phew, I'm glad we're good."
Nguyen frequently appears on "Today," "NBC News Now," and "MSNBC." She has previously gone viral for a fashion mishap in early 2024, when she appeared on the "Today" show wearing UGG slippers due to forgetting her shoes.