Today Show Shocks: Hoda Kotb Resigns, Jenna Bush Hager Reveals Replacement That Makes Audiences Can’t Believe Their Eyes!

In a move that’s sending shockwaves through morning-TV land, TODAY Show co-anchor Hoda Kotb officially stepped down from her anchor desk on January 10, 2025, marking the end of an illustrious nearly 18‑year run with NBC. The emotional farewell, dubbed a “Hoda‑bration,” saw tears, tributes, and the unmistakable void left by a broadcasting trailblazer.

In the wake of her departure, TODAY revealed the next twist: Craig Melvin, previously the third‑hour host, will step into Hoda’s shoes alongside Savannah Guthrie beginning January 13, 2025. That choice certainly brings journalistic gravitas—but for the fourth hour, Jenna Bush Hager isn’t picking just anyone. She’s unleashing a rotating lineup of star-studded guest co-hosts to captivate viewers under the banner: Today with Jenna & Friends.

The end of an era

Hoda Kotb’s journey with TODAY began in 2007, when she took on the fourth‑hour gig alongside Kathie Lee Gifford. Joining Savannah Guthrie in 2018, the pair made history as morning television’s first all-female anchor duo.

However, after turning 60 in August 2024, Kotb publicly revealed her plan to step back and devote more time to her daughters, who she adopted in 2017 and 2019. She described the transition as “painful but necessary,” a heartfelt decision to prioritize family over the 3 a.m. wake‑ups and studio lights.

Craig Melvin: the new morning voice

Craig Melvin, pulling double duty on the third hour and already a beloved face on TODAY, will take over Hoda’s anchor chair. Insiders report NBC docked him with a massive salary bump—now earning approximately $5–6 million annually, up from $3 million.

Melvin’s promotion is a natural fit—his polished journalistic chops and chemistry with Savannah will anchor the show’s first two hours. Still, the decision hasn’t been without criticism: some viewers on social media have called Melvin’s voice “raspy” while others miss Hoda’s warmth. But with Savannah’s hard‑news strength complementing Melvin’s steady delivery, TODAY is betting on a winning pairing.

Jenna’s bold move: celebrity guest‑hosting extravaganza

Rather than searching urgently for a permanent fourth‑hour partner, Jenna Bush Hager is experimenting—and audiences are eating it up. The debut week kicked off January 13, 2025, with a cavalcade of high-profile guest hosts, including Taraji P. Henson, Eva Longoria, Keke Palmer, Scarlett Johansson, and even Dwyane Wade.

Jenna captured the sentiment: “It feels like we’re pulling up chairs for different kinds of people… something for every viewer”. Her tone was candid—“bittersweet”—emphasizing the emotional depth behind Hoda’s exit and her enduring bond with her friend and former co‑anchor.

Fanfare around Scarlett Johansson

Among the rotating hosts, Scarlett Johansson sparked immense buzz. Her week-long stint drew high praise, with fans and critics noting her on‑air chemistry and vivacity. Jenna even joked about launching a GoFundMe to make Johansson a permanent fixture—such was the fan fervor.

Viewers aren’t the only ones tuning in: entertainment insiders say TODAY is taking notes, evaluating which guest host might eventually settle into the role permanently.

Who’s in the running next?

While TODAY has yet to officially name a permanent fourth‑hour co-anchor—and Jenna admits the search is ongoing—the speculation mill is spinning.

Hoda herself has praised several dream candidates: Savannah Guthrie, Justin Sylvester, Scarlett Johansson, Matt Rogers, and Sheinelle Jones. The U.S. Sun even suggests Sheinelle Jones might be being quietly vetted, though no formal announcement has been made.

Then there’s Laura Jarrett—the show’s sharp‑witted legal reporter—who’s been filling in and drawing strong viewer reactions. Rebecca insights suggest she’s “being lined up” for a permanent co‑host spot.

Even Gayle King was name‑checked in a light‑hearted banter by Jenna during an episode featuring Mikey Day—and left audiences whispering “Gayle & Jenna?”.

Jenna reflects: from grief to gratitude

Speaking to Newsweek, Jenna described her emotions as “bittersweet”—grieving Hoda’s exit while embracing the new chapter ahead. But she’s made her intentions clear: this transition will be thorough and deliberate.

“We’re still searching… we will [have a permanent co-host] at some point,” Jenna said in early June 2025.

Until then, TODAY fans can expect a vibrant, unpredictable lineup on Today with Jenna & Friends—a clever bet on star power and diversity to maintain interest.

What’s next for Hoda?

Despite stepping back from anchor duty, Hoda isn’t disappearing. She’ll remain part of the NBC family, working on special segments, launching a wellness‑focused app and retreats, and diving deeper into family life. And of course, she might return as a surprise guest host—just last week, she popped in to co-host with Jenna as part of her wellness‑venture rollout.

Final verdict: Today’s new era

Craig Melvin & Savannah Guthrie anchor the flagship hours, blending journalistic balance and strong chemistry.

Today with Jenna & Friends offers star wattage, flexibility, and a fresh face-Jenna must “fall in love with” before committing.

Permanent fourth‑hour anchor? Still TBD, with top contenders including Laura Jarrett, Sheinelle Jones, Scarlett Johansson, and possibly Gayle King.

As morning-viewing habits shift and competition remains fierce, NBC has centered TODAY’s reinvention on adaptability—and anchored it firmly in emotional storytelling.

Takeaway

Hoda Kotb’s dramatic departure wasn’t just headline-making—it redefined TODAY. Jenna Bush Hager’s celebrity-forward experiment might just re-energize the format, while Craig Melvin’s promotion ensures continuity in the core broadcast. The result? A bold blend of stability and star-driven innovation.

Only one question remains: who will finally claim that fourth-hour chair? Until then, every morning brings a new surprise—and millions of viewers tuning in to see who Jenna will share the table with next.