Ted Williams Brings His Golden Voice To 'Today' Show
Jan. 6 2011, Published 4:23 a.m. ET
Homeless man Ted Williams is embarking on a bright future in 2011. The 53-year-old Brooklyn native has gone from panhandling on the streets of Columbus, Ohio, to national fame thanks to a viral video featuring his "golden" radio voice. Ted brought his coveted vocals to Today, opening up the national morning news program before he interviewed with Matt Lauer and Meredith Vieira.
The clip, posted by a curious reporter from The Columbus Dispatch, launched job opportunities for Ted from the Cleveland Cavaliers' (who also offered to help pay for housing) and he told Matt and Meredith he is going to be the "official voice" of Kraft Macaroni & Cheese.
"They said they are going to give me LeBron's old house," Ted quipped about his offer from the Cavaliers.
His visit on the set of Today marks the first time Ted has been to New York since 1986.
Ted battled drug and alcohol addictions leaving him to panhandle on the side of highways in Columbus.
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Ted explained he has been clean for about two years. He is also the father to seven girls and two boys as well as a grandfather.
Ted vows that "this time around" he hopes God will help him take advantage of the new chance he's been given.
So where will he be in five years?
"Hopefully a program director somewhere," he said. "I will have my own apartment, I will say that. My kids will have love from me."
Ted opens up Today with his golden vocals
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Ted's interview with Matt and Meredith
Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy