Kathie Lee has long been a student of Judeo-Christian history. Her deep dive into biblical teachings and historical narratives inspired her latest book, Herod and Mary: The True Story. In this work, she explores the life of King Herod, a paranoid ruler desperate to cling to power. Consumed by fear and manipulation from those around him, Herod became suspicious of his own children, leading to tragic consequences.
Gifford's Journey Through Greek and Hebrew Teachings
Gifford focused on Greek and Hebrew teachings, which led her to uncover the stories of King Herod. This exploration forms the foundation of her recent book, Herod and Mary: The True Story. Kathie Lee Gifford has a strong relationship with her faith but not necessarily with organized religion. Instead, she delves into in-depth Bible study, which inspired her new literary endeavor. The Emmy Award-winning TV host shared with Fox News Digital that her faith in God taught her the power of forgiveness after enduring a painful betrayal. Kathie Lee Gifford, the former Today co-host and Emmy-winning TV personality, was married to NFL star Frank Gifford from 1986 to 2015. She credits her faith for helping her forgive her husband's extramarital affair.
A Career Rooted in Faith
Throughout her storied career in entertainment, including as the Emmy-winning co-host of Today With Kathie Lee and Hoda and Live With Regis and Kathie, Gifford has consistently integrated her beliefs into her professional life. In an interview with Yahoo Entertainment, she explained why sharing her faith is central to her purpose in the industry. I believe religion puts people in chains, but faith in the living God redeems us from those chains, she said. Following Jesus gives us the roadmap for how to live authentically and compassionately.
Using Their Platform for Greater Good
Kathie Lee Gifford and her daughter, Cassidy, are passionate about using their platform to highlight God's grace amid pain. They recently opened up about the new Amazon Prime faith series, The Baxters, emphasizing its message of resilience and redemption. (Gifford was born Kathryn Lee Epstein, and her paternal grandfather was a Russian Jew. She told CNN's Larry King in 2000: “My father's Jewish by heritage.”)
Personal Faith Amid Public Scrutiny
For decades, Kathie Lee has engaged in deep conversations about her faith with anyone willing to listen. Despite facing personal attacks and misrepresentation, she remains steadfast in her beliefs. New York Times bestselling author Kathie Lee Gifford reveals heartwarming, entertaining conversations between people and personalities who both agree and disagree about who Jesus is, his role throughout history, and his presence in our lives today. Her humility and sincerity in describing her personal faith journey, one that began at age 12, resonates deeply with readers.
Raising Children Grounded in Faith
Kathie and her late husband, Frank Gifford, modeled faith for their children, Cassidy and Cody Gifford. As Cassidy now becomes a mother herself, she continues to carry forward these values. The former TODAY co-host and her daughter discussed life lessons and their new faith-based drama, 'The Baxters,' highlighting the importance of passing down spiritual principles through generations.
Faith in Hollywood
The four-time Emmy Award-winner revealed that her latest projects feel like a direct call from God and a unique culmination of her life's work. My Christian faith got me to and through Hollywood, she reflected in an article for Christianity Today (March 2016 issue). Before entering television, Kathie Lee Gifford spent several years pursuing a career as a Christian singer. Her invitation to Good Morning America marked the beginning of her transition into broadcasting.
Family Values and Spiritual Growth
Gifford wanted her children, Cody and Cassidy, to have a relationship with the living God. For her, this relationship extends beyond traditional church attendance. While some may resist discussions about faith, Gifford remains undeterred. People don’t want me to mess with their manger, she noted. Yet, her commitment to exploring her Jewish roots alongside her Christian beliefs persists. I want to go to Yeshiva University and become a rabbi, she once joked during a segment celebrating her 60th birthday on live television alongside co-host Hoda Kotb.
Legacy and Testimony
Kathie Lee Gifford (born August 16, 1953) is an American talk show host, singer, and actress best known for hosting Live with Regis and Kathie Lee and co-anchoring the fourth hour of the Today show with Hoda Kotb for more than a decade. Beyond her entertainment achievements, she is celebrated for her unwavering faith and dedication to spreading hope. Legendary TV host, singer, actress, and producer Kathie Lee Gifford believes her calling in life is rooted in her Christian faith. Hollywood can be my mission field, she often says, reflecting on how her beliefs keep her grounded amidst the glitz and glamour.
Collaborations and Continued Impact
Kathie Lee Gifford and Rabbi Jason Sobel, authors of the New York Times bestseller The Rock, the Road, and the Rabbi, bring audiences an exciting new perspective on biblical truths. In discussing her latest book, The Rock, The Road and the Rabbi, Gifford passionately shares her love for God’s Word and her relentless pursuit of truth. Whether through her writing, performances, or public appearances, Kathie Lee Gifford continues to inspire millions with her heartfelt testimony and enduring faith.
