Morning routines differ for everyone—while some skip TV altogether, others can’t start their day without their favorite morning show. For many, that meant tuning in to see Hoda Kotb.
Now, it looks like Kotb is stepping away from Today, and speculation is already swirling about who will take her place.
Keep reading to find out more…
Hoda Kotb is set to leave her role as Today co-host, meaning Jenna Bush Hager will soon have a new partner by her side.
Kotb shared her enthusiasm for the upcoming Jenna & Friends segment, where a rotating lineup of celebrity co-hosts will join Bush Hager each week until a permanent replacement is chosen.
The reason for Kotb’s departure? She’s prioritizing family time with her daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine. Reflecting on her co-host’s talent, Kotb praised Bush Hager, saying, “What this experience has shown me is that Jenna is a star. I always knew it, but now I see it even more as she navigates blind dates with new co-hosts each week. She’s incredible. Whoever joins her will be lucky to sit beside her.”
This isn’t the only change to Kotb’s role—back in November, Craig Melvin was named her replacement for the 7–8 A.M. hour of Today, co-hosting alongside Savannah Guthrie. Kotb had nothing but praise for the pairing, calling it a perfect match: “Savannah and Craig—come on. They’re like two peas in a pod. It was meant to be.”
Although she’s stepping away from Today, Kotb made it clear she’ll stay in touch with her colleagues. “I’ll still call them, check in,” she said. “They keep asking, ‘What do you need? How can we help?’ They’re here for my next adventure. It’s been amazing.”
While she may be leaving, she’s not quite ready to say a full goodbye. On her last day, Kotb received several friendship bracelets, each with a special message. “This one says ‘January 10, 2025’—someone gave me a date. This one says ‘Today show.’ And this one says, ‘Hoda. Be kind,’” she shared. “I’ve been wearing them all since that day. I can’t take them off yet.”
Looking ahead, Kotb is preparing to launch a wellness project, a new chapter she’s eager to begin. “I’m feeling refreshed,” she said. “I’m feeling sunny.”
As for who will take her place, Kotb admitted she’s just as curious as everyone else. “Jenna and I have been talking about it. I keep asking, ‘Who’s going to be our forever friend?’”
At 60, Kotb is embracing the unknown with excitement. “I’m dying to find out who it’s going to be,” she told People.
Who do you think should replace Hoda Kotb on Today? Share your thoughts in the comments and let others weigh in!