NBC Still Searching For Hoda Kotb's Permanent Replacement 6 Months After Exit

Hoda Kotb is still irreplaceable! The TV host left an empty void on the "Today" show as reports confirmed that NBC is currently in a dilemma over an ideal replacement for her.

Hoda Kotb announced her decision to leave the show last quarter of 2024 to prioritize her children and family life after nearly three decades of appearing on the program.

NBC has not yet decided on Kotb's replacement as Jenna Bush Hager's permanent co-host on the fourth hour of the "Today" show. 

According to an insider, the network has not even named a successor. Instead, the network is focused on an array of well-known celebrities who have shown interest in guest co-hosting on the newly rebranded "Today With Jenna and Friends." 

The source explained to Page Six that there had been significant interest from various A-listers wanting to join Hager. The host is currently enjoying the experience of collaborating with celebrities such as Scarlett Johansson, Dwyane Wade, Taraji P. Henson, and Olivia Munn.

A source has dismissed rumors suggesting that Kelly Clarkson has been chosen to replace Kotb, contrary to a recent report filtering through the press.

The recent report suggested that the "Stronger" singer is considering leaving her NBC talk show to join "Today" in order to spend more time with her children. However, a second source contradicted this claim, stating that the information does not add up.

According to them, if Clarkson's goal is to spend more time with her kids, moving to "Today" would not afford her that opportunity, especially since she has never guest co-hosted on "Today With Jenna and Friends."

On the other hand, Clarkson has recently committed to a seventh season of the "Kelly Clarkson Show," which will run through 2026. This ongoing commitment likely precludes her from taking on additional television projects in the near future.

Coincidentally, Hager and her colleagues from the "Today" show have also been on their toes, searching for a new co-host to replace Kotb since her departure.

Hager expressed in an interview that the situation constantly evolves and has become a valuable lesson in embracing the present moment. She admitted that the show's future is uncertain, stating, "I actually have no idea what this show is going to look like."

The team has guest co-hosts lined up through early summer and plans to reassess their options afterward. Hager mentioned that while there is potential for a permanent co-host, there is also the possibility of continuing with guest hosts.

According to The Blast, in November 2024, the "Today" show announced Melvin as its new co-anchor, following Kotb's departure, to focus on her children and family life.

Kotb left the show last September after nearly thirty years on air. Melvin, who hosted the third hour of "Today," was slated to take on his new role alongside Savannah Guthrie, starting January 13, 2025, the day after Kotb's last appearance.

Melvin joined the "Today" team in 2018 with a strong background in broadcasting, having previously worked with MSNBC and NBC News. A source described him as a highly talented and well-rounded anchor, perfect for the role.

Kotb later expressed her support for Melvin in an Instagram post, praising him and sharing heartfelt photos of him with his new co-hosts and staff.

Kotb announced her departure from NBC's "Today" in an emotional letter to her colleagues, where she expressed heartfelt gratitude for their support over her 26-year career. Although she believed leaving was the right decision, she admitted it was painful.

As noted by The Blast, the 60-year-old reflected on her time at NBC, describing it as the longest professional love affair of her life, highlighting the deep connections she formed with her teammates. 

In her closing remarks, she reassured her colleagues that she intends to remain part of the NBC family, recognizing their special bond. Her departure significantly impacted her fellow anchors, many of whom were moved to tears as they recalled their strong friendship and shared experience.

Whoever is filling Hoda Kotb's shoes sure has lots of work to do!