Hoda Kotb to Continue Filling in on “Today” as Savannah Guthrie’s Absence Continues
Fans of the popular morning show “Today” can expect to see more of Hoda Kotb in the coming weeks as she continues to fill in for regular co-anchor Savannah Guthrie. Guthrie has been absent from the show since the beginning of the month as she monitors the search for her missing mother, Nancy, in Arizona.
Kotb, who has been co-anchoring “Today” for the past three weeks, is not planning to rejoin the program full time. However, she will continue to fill in opposite Craig Melvin until Guthrie’s return. Guthrie’s absence may continue for a significant period, but she is expected to come back on her own timeline.
Since leaving the program in early 2025, Kotb has remained under contract with NBC. She has been involved in various projects, including hosting a podcast and participating in NBC’s annual telecast of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Kotb was also set to cover NBC’s Winter Olympics in Italy alongside Guthrie and other “Today” personnel, but those plans were altered due to Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance.
Kotb’s decision to stay on as a fill-in anchor provides a practical solution for NBC and “Today” producers. Introducing a new face during such a challenging time could alienate viewers who have a strong connection with Guthrie. Kotb’s familiarity with the show and audience makes her a suitable choice to step in temporarily.
When Kotb announced her departure in 2024, she expressed a desire to spend more time with her young daughters. Despite her long career at NBC News, which began in 1998 as a correspondent for “Dateline,” Kotb felt it was time to prioritize her family. Her decision to leave the show was met with understanding from colleagues and fans alike.
Throughout her time at NBC, Kotb has gained recognition for her work on the fourth hour of “Today” alongside Kathie Lee Gifford. The duo’s dynamic and personal anecdotes resonated with viewers, leading to Kotb’s increased visibility on the show. She embraced the shift towards more personal storytelling, acknowledging the changing landscape of morning television.
As Kotb continues to fill in on “Today,” viewers can expect a seamless transition as she supports the show during Guthrie’s absence. Her dedication to the program and her ability to connect with the audience make her a valuable asset to the team. Stay tuned for more updates on Kotb’s role on “Today” as the search for Nancy Guthrie continues.
