The Today show has yet to make a final decision on who will officially replace Hoda Kotb as co-host of the fourth hour alongside Jenna Bush Hager.
Despite launching the Jenna & Friends format six weeks ago, network executives are in no rush to select a permanent replacement, an insider has revealed.
Since Hoda’s departure in January, Jenna, 43, has been hosting the segment with a rotating lineup of guest co-hosts, giving audiences a variety of personalities to engage with.
The revamped format has featured several notable guests, but one name has stood out above the rest—actress Scarlett Johansson.
Her appearance as a guest co-host was met with overwhelming praise from viewers, leading to an invitation for her to return in March.
Despite Johansson’s popularity, the show’s executives remain undecided on whether she, or any other guest, will be given the role permanently.
A source close to the network has confirmed that no final choice has been made regarding a permanent co-host for the fourth hour.
No Rush to Name a Successor
While fans eagerly anticipate an official announcement, it appears the network is content to continue testing different hosts before making a long-term commitment. The insider emphasized that there is no urgency in locking in a replacement for Hoda Kotb, 60.
“There is no reason to make a decision now,” the source explained. “There has been significant interest from various people wanting to guest co-host.”
Hoda Kotb’s Departure from the Today Show
Hoda Kotb had been a staple at NBC News for nearly 30 years, with a career that spanned across multiple roles, including her long-running tenure as co-host of the fourth hour alongside Jenna Bush Hager. Her decision to leave the show was announced last year, marking the end of an era for the popular morning segment.
In an emotional farewell letter to her colleagues, Hoda reflected on her journey with the network, expressing deep gratitude for the relationships she built over the years. She revealed that turning 60 had been a turning point in her life, leading her to make the difficult decision to step away.
“As I write this, my heart is all over the map,” she shared. “I know I’m making the right decision, but it’s a painful one. You all are the reason why.”
Hoda’s letter acknowledged the immense impact of her time at NBC, stating, “My time at NBC has been the longest professional love affair of my life. But only because you’ve been beside me on this twenty-six-year adventure.”
She also paid heartfelt tributes to her colleagues, highlighting her deep bond with Jenna Bush Hager, whom she referred to as her “ride-or-die.” Other co-workers, including Savannah Guthrie, Al Roker, Craig Melvin, Carson Daly, Sheinelle Jones, and Dylan Dreyer, were also mentioned in her farewell.
The Launch of ‘Jenna & Friends’
Following Hoda’s exit, it was confirmed in November that Jenna Bush Hager would continue to lead the fourth hour under the rebranded format, Today with Jenna & Friends. The new concept aims to bring in a variety of guest hosts, offering a fresh and dynamic approach to the segment.
Explaining the revamped show’s direction, Jenna likened it to the modern trend of “roster dating,” humorously comparing her new hosting situation to being single and exploring different options.
“I’m single—not at home, but in this work life, I am single, and I am ready to mingle!” she said. “So this show is going to be all about friendship.”
Jenna expressed excitement over the opportunity to collaborate with a range of talented guests, stating, “We have so many amazing guests and friends and family that are part of the DNA of this show, and they are going to be coming along for the ride, so we cannot wait.”
Future of the Fourth Hour
While Scarlett Johansson’s guest appearance was met with widespread approval, it remains uncertain whether she or another candidate will eventually be named as a permanent co-host. For now, Today with Jenna & Friends will continue to explore different hosting dynamics as the network assesses its options.
The relaxed approach to selecting a replacement suggests that NBC is keen on ensuring they find the right fit rather than making a hasty decision. Until an official announcement is made, viewers can expect to see a variety of well-known personalities sharing the screen with Jenna Bush Hager.
As the search for a new co-host continues, audiences will undoubtedly stay tuned to see who might ultimately fill the coveted role alongside Jenna for the long haul.
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