In the wake of Matt Lauer's sudden departure from the Today show due to sexual harassment allegations, Hoda Kotb has officially been named the morning program's co-anchor, joining Savannah Guthrie. This announcement marks a new chapter for the show and fans are thrilled.
Savannah Guthrie, 46, couldn’t contain her excitement during the announcement on Monday, January 2. "This has to be the most popular decision that NBC News has ever made, and I am so thrilled," she said. Turning to Hoda, Savannah added, "You are not just a partner but a cherished friend, and I’m so happy to be doing this together.” Hoda Kotb, 53, responded with genuine emotion, "I am pinching myself. This feels surreal, and I couldn’t be more honored to take on this role alongside you."
View this post on InstagramWaking up this morning to the best news, @hodakotb has been named co-anchor of TODAY! Watch @savannahguthrie make the big announce! #todayshow #SavannahHodaTODAY
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Big Changes After Matt Lauer’s Departure
This exciting news comes just over a month after Matt Lauer, 60, was let go from Today on November 29, following serious allegations. After two decades on the show, Matt’s sudden exit left NBC scrambling to figure out who would step into his shoes. Initially, the network considered rotating various anchors into the co-anchor role temporarily. "There will be a rotation for now," a source revealed. "But there’s a lot that still needs to be worked out." The source added, "When Matt was on vacation or out on assignment, there was always a lineup of people ready to step in, from Hoda to Carson Daly, Willie Geist, or Craig Melvin, the weekend anchor."
Hoda Kotb: The Obvious Choice
By mid-December, Closer Weekly reported that Hoda was the leading contender for the permanent co-anchor role. "She's a marvel," a Today insider shared. "She pulls it all off with such grace and stamina. There's no one on the Today team more respected than Hoda. She's equally comfortable interviewing world leaders as she is chatting with fashion designers. Her entire career has been building toward this moment. This is undoubtedly the pinnacle of her career, and Hoda knows it." Fans and colleagues alike couldn’t agree more.
View this post on InstagramThis is us! #SavannahHodaTODAY
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Hoda’s Leadership Amid Turbulent Times
Since Matt Lauer’s departure, Hoda has been the glue holding the Today team together. Amid the chaos and uncertainty, she’s been a steady presence for her colleagues. "She has always been great at fostering camaraderie and teamwork. I don't know what they would have done in this time of crisis without Hoda around to rally everyone," an insider told Closer Weekly. Fans and colleagues alike are thrilled with NBC’s decision, celebrating Hoda’s promotion to co-anchor as a well-deserved milestone in her illustrious career. Congratulations, Hoda!
