Hoda Kotb has been a beloved presence on morning television for years, bringing warmth, charm, and a natural ability to connect with audiences. Many people across the country have started their mornings with her, making her a staple in their daily routines. However, recent news has left fans surprised and somewhat emotional—Hoda Kotb is stepping away from her role as a co-host on Today. While her departure marks the end of an era, it also opens the door to a new chapter for the show.
Viewers have been eager to know who will fill her shoes, and the discussion about her replacement is already generating buzz. With changes on the horizon, Today is introducing a fresh approach to morning television, keeping things exciting and engaging for fans. The transition plan includes an innovative format where Jenna Bush Hager, Kotb’s longtime co-host, will appear with a rotating lineup of guest hosts. This new segment, titled Jenna & Friends, will feature a different celebrity co-host each week until a permanent replacement is selected.
Kotb’s decision to leave Today is deeply personal. The 60-year-old host has chosen to step away to spend more time with her family, particularly her two daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine. For her, family has always been a top priority, and this move allows her to be more present in their lives. While she is excited about what’s to come, she admits that saying goodbye to her colleagues—especially Jenna Bush Hager—won’t be easy. Speaking about her co-host, Kotb had nothing but praise, stating, “What this has shown me is that Jenna is a mega talent. It was always clear to me, but it’s even clearer now because I’m watching her have blind dates every week with new co-hosts, and the common thread is how awesome she is. She’s incredible. So whoever she chooses is going to be great with her.”
This isn’t the only transition happening on Today. In addition to Kotb’s departure from the Jenna & Hoda segment, she has also stepped away from her Today show duties between 7 and 8 A.M. Her replacement for that hour has already been announced—Craig Melvin. He will be joining Savannah Guthrie to co-host that portion of the show. Kotb has expressed excitement about this change, saying, “Savannah and Craig—come on. It’s like two peas in a pod, man. That was so meant to be.”
Despite stepping away, Kotb has reassured fans that her departure doesn’t mean she’s cutting ties with her colleagues. She intends to remain in touch and continue supporting the Today family in any way she can. “I’ll talk to them, I’ll call them. They’re like, ‘What can we do? When do you need me?’ So they are here for my next great adventure. It’s just fun,” she shared. Her deep friendships with her colleagues have always been a defining feature of her time on Today, and she will undoubtedly continue to be part of their lives.
One of the most touching moments from her final days on set involved a collection of friendship bracelets given to her by colleagues and fans. Each bracelet carries special meaning, making it difficult for her to take them off. She reflected on this sentimental gesture, saying, “All these bracelets that I got are from people who gave them to me on the last day. This lady gave me one that says ‘January 10, 2025’—she gave me the date. This one says ‘Today show’. This one says, ‘Hoda. Be kind.’ Anyone who gave me one on the last day, I’ve been wearing it. I can’t take them off yet.” The significance of these bracelets represents the deep connection she has built with her team and audience over the years.
While her departure from Today marks a major change, Kotb is looking ahead with excitement. Her next venture involves a wellness launch, and she is eager to step into this new phase of her career. “I’m feeling fresh,” she said. “I’m feeling sunny.” This transition allows her to pursue passions beyond television while still maintaining the strong bonds she has formed over the years.
As for her replacement on Today, Kotb admits she is just as curious as the fans. She has had conversations with Jenna Bush Hager about it, but nothing is set in stone. “I’ve been talking with Jenna about it. I keep saying, ‘Who’s going to be our friend forever?’” she shared. The search for her replacement is ongoing, and while there is no official confirmation yet, the anticipation is building. Kotb herself is eager to see who will take over, saying, “I’m dying to find out who it’s going to be.”
Whoever steps into the role will have big shoes to fill, as Kotb has been a beloved figure on morning television for years. Her warmth, humor, and authenticity have resonated with millions, making her a household name. The rotating celebrity co-host format for Jenna & Friends is an exciting way to keep viewers engaged while the perfect candidate is found.
Change is never easy, especially when it involves someone as cherished as Hoda Kotb. However, this transition presents a fresh opportunity for Today to evolve and bring new energy to its audience. Fans can expect exciting guest hosts, dynamic conversations, and a seamless continuation of the show’s beloved format. While Kotb’s presence will be missed, her impact on Today is undeniable, and her influence will continue to shape the show’s future.
As Today moves forward with this transition, one question remains—who will be Hoda Kotb’s permanent replacement? The answer is yet to be revealed, but one thing is certain: whoever takes the seat next to Jenna Bush Hager will need to bring charisma, warmth, and the ability to connect with audiences just as Kotb did.
Now, we want to hear from you! Who do you think should replace Hoda Kotb on Today? Share your thoughts in the comments and pass this along to others to see what they think!
