Hoda Kotb, once a staple of morning TV, is now being considered for a major role in daytime television as rumors swirl about Kelly Clarkson’s potential exit from her talk show, reports the New York Post.
As Clarkson’s contract nears its end, network chiefs are eyeing Kotb among other candidates for the position. An inside source told the New York Post, “Hoda is definitely on the consideration list,” and highlighted NBC’s interest in not losing Kotb: “NBC always hoped Hoda would stay. Now, it’s up to whether she wants to take this new role or not.”
Kelly Clarkson, the first winner of American Idol, is thought to be weighing her options of leaving her award-winning show. Her decision seems influenced by her busy music career, including a new album set to be released on her own label in June and a series of performances in Las Vegas later in the year.
Additionally, family priorities are playing a big part in Clarkson’s thinking. According to Page Six, Clarkson wants to spend more time with her children, River Rose and Remy, aged 10 and 8 respectively. A source close to the industry told the publication, “Kelly puts her kids first, and that won’t change. The show demands a lot, and she’s considering more time in the South with her family.”
Speculation about Clarkson’s departure grew following her recent two-week leave from the show due to a “personal matter,” during which various celebrities, including Andy Cohen, stepped in as guest hosts. Clarkson touched on some of her personal challenges in an emotional speech during the 1,000th episode of her show, sharing feelings of isolation and confusion she has experienced lately.
Kotb, who unexpectedly left the Today show in January after seven years of co-hosting with Savannah Guthrie, could find the daytime slot fitting due to its less demanding schedule. Kotb had expressed her desire to dedicate more time to her family and work on her wellness brand, after years of early mornings on the show.
A source told the New York Post that moving to Clarkson’s daytime slot could be a “cakewalk” compared to the rigorous schedule of morning TV. The daytime show’s production is more streamlined, recording two episodes per day at set times, which could offer Kotb a better balance between work and personal life.
Kotb’s potential move is supported by her wide appeal and varied experience. “Hoda checks many boxes. She has a diverse background and is an established figure in broadcasting,” noted an insider.
Other potential replacements include familiar faces like Wanda Sykes, Willie Geist, and Josh Groban, and former Today weekend anchor Maria Shriver is also being considered, as per sources.
The decision on who will take over may also be influenced by ratings. The Kelly Clarkson Show has seen a drop in viewership from its initial 1.9 million viewers in 2019 to about 1.2 million this season. Similarly, Today with Hoda & Jenna, now renamed Jenna & Friends, has also experienced a slight dip in ratings following Kotb’s exit.
Hi, I’m Emily, a passionate and dedicated member of the Sherburne County Citizen team. With a keen eye for detail and a love for writing, I ensure that the latest celebrity news, major economic trends, and helpful tips for your home are presented in the most engaging and informative way possible. Fun fact: During a particularly exciting news story, I once managed to finish an article in record time, fueled solely by copious amounts of coffee and pure adrenaline!
