Hoda Kotb admits she’s “dying to find out” who will permanently replace her after 20 years on today.
Hoda Kotb has left her seat at Today, but the burning question remains—who will take her place?
The veteran anchor, who stepped down after 20 years on the iconic morning show, revealed she’s eagerly awaiting news on her successor. Speaking at the Runway for Recovery fashion show in New York, Kotb, 60, didn’t hide her curiosity.
“I’m dying to find out who it’s going to be,” she told People, reflecting on the uncertainty surrounding her former spot alongside Jenna Bush Hager.
Embed from Getty ImagesSince Kotb’s departure, the show has been temporarily rebranded as Jenna & Friends, featuring a rotating lineup of celebrity guests in her absence. However, no permanent replacement has been announced, leaving both viewers and Kotb herself on edge.
“I’ve been talking with Jenna about it. I keep saying, ‘Who’s going to be our friend forever?’” Kotb added with excitement.
Despite stepping away, Kotb remains invested in the show’s future, particularly in Bush Hager’s ability to carry the segment.
“What this has shown me is that Jenna is a mega talent,” Kotb praised. “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. The common thread? She’s incredible. So whoever she chooses is going to be great with her.”
For now, Craig Melvin, who already co-anchors Today’s 7 and 8 a.m. hours, has stepped in as a temporary co-host alongside Savannah Guthrie. Kotb believes the pairing works well.
“Savannah and Craig—come on,” she gushed. “It’s like two peas in a pod. That was so meant to be.”With Today viewers eager for an official announcement, speculation continues over who will ultimately take the vacant seat. Kotb may have signed off, but she—and the audience—are watching closely to see what happens next.