Former “Today” co-host Hoda Kotb is reportedly being considered as a potential replacement for Kelly Clarkson on NBC’s daytime talk show. This comes a few months after Kotb’s unexpected departure, as insiders share that Clarkson may be looking to leave her show.
According to sources within NBC, Kotb remains on the network’s radar following her surprising exit in January. “There’s a long list of names, and Hoda is certainly part of that,” one insider noted. “NBC didn’t want her to leave, but it’s uncertain if Hoda would be interested in returning.”
Clarkson’s contract is set to increase next year. While the timeline for a potential transition is unclear, it raises questions about who might take over the show if she decides to depart.
Meanwhile, Clarkson is embarking on a significant year for her music career, planning to release her ninth album in June and starting a new Las Vegas residency from July 4th to August 16th, along with additional shows in November.
“If the album doesn’t perform well, she may choose to stick with her talk show,” the insider suggested. “But given all she has accomplished, it seems like the right time for a new chapter.”
Neither NBC, Clarkson, nor Kotb responded to requests for comments on the matter.
There’s also a desire for a recognizable host, and being a diverse candidate could enhance Kotb’s chances. “Hoda checks a lot of boxes. She’s like an Egyptian version of Kelly Clarkson,” remarked an insider.
In addition to Kotb, other notable names mentioned as potential hosts include Wanda Sykes, Willie Geist, Molly Sims, Roy Wood Jr., and Josh Groban. Another candidate could be former “Today” weekend anchor Maria Schreiber, who is currently promoting her new book.
However, some speculate that Kotb might prefer to return to a more traditional anchor role instead of sharing the spotlight as a co-host.
Kotb, who has been with NBC since 1998, remains a favorite among network executives. She left “Today” to focus on her family and her wellness brand amidst challenges with her daughter’s health.
The demanding schedule of the morning show weighed heavily on Kotb and her family. Compared to “Today,” insiders say that hosting a daytime talk show is much more manageable.
“Talk shows are more suited for working mothers,” explained the insider, noting the more condensed taping schedule. Typically, two shows are taped each day, one at 11 a.m. and another at 3 p.m., depending on local broadcast times.
Nonetheless, Clarkson has expressed fatigue with her current schedule. Reports have suggested her main priority is her children, and she may wish to spend more time with them.
Ratings for “The Kelly Clarkson Show” have declined since it launched in 2019, averaging about 1.2 million viewers this season compared to nearly 1.9 million at its debut. The show has earned 22 daytime Emmys and competes with other top programs like “The View” and “NBC News Daily.”
Since Kotb’s departure, “Today” has struggled with ratings, averaging around 2.7 million viewers, lower than the nearly 2.8 million it had before. In contrast, “Today with Hoda & Jenna,” which airs at 10 a.m., has averaged about 1.3 million viewers, while the renamed “Jenna & Friends” aims for a similar audience range.
