NBC Execs Eye Surprising New Co-Host for Today Show—Could a Major Star Be Replacing Someone?

In a bold move that’s making waves in the morning news world, NBC executives are reportedly considering a high-profile replacement for a current Today Show host. This unexpected development has sparked a flurry of speculation: which well-known star is at risk, and what could this mean for the future of the beloved morning program?

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What’s Happening and Who’s Involved

Since Hoda Kotb stepped down as co-anchor in January 2025, NBC has been in search of new talent for the main two-hour Today Show block and its fourth hour, Today with Jenna & Friends. While Craig Melvin was named as Hoda’s replacement alongside Savannah Guthrie, uncertainty remains about who will fill Jenna Bush Hager’s co-anchor position.

According to sources, NBC execs are now eyeing an A-list star who could add star power and draw in viewers to help boost ratings. This surprise contender could shake up the lineup and make waves in the increasingly competitive morning show landscape.

Why NBC Is Reconsidering the Lineup

The morning news scene has undergone significant changes:

Declining ratings as traditional morning programs face increasing competition from streaming and specialized news outlets.

Hoda Kotb’s departure left a gap, and while Craig Melvin stepped in, the fourth-hour dynamic remains uncertain.

Past successful shake-ups, such as Megyn Kelly’s arrival in 2017, prove that aggressive changes can stir up interest, despite mixed reactions.

NBC appears ready for another major move, with a possible celebrity co-host on the horizon.

Top Candidates Being Discussed

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Although NBC hasn’t confirmed any names, industry insiders have suggested a few frontrunners:

Scarlett Johansson – Her guest-host appearances have been a hit, and her massive pop culture presence could boost ratings.

Savannah Guthrie – A logical pick, as she already anchors the show’s earlier hours.

Justin Sylvester – A rising star with great chemistry alongside Jenna.

Sheinelle Jones – A popular guest host, rumored to be NBC’s top candidate.

Matt Rogers – A new comedic voice with a magnetic on-screen presence.

NBC seems to be weighing both celebrity power and internal talent to find the perfect balance of chemistry, audience appeal, and long-term success.

Fans and Media Buzzing with Speculation

Today's Savannah Guthrie takes time off as beloved co-star steps in – and she isn't the only one | HELLO!

Even without confirmation, fans are buzzing with excitement:

“Please say it’s Scarlett! That’d be amazing.”

“Savannah’s great, but I want someone unexpected.”

“They need to pick someone who has great chemistry with Jenna.”

Hashtags like #TodayCoHostShakeup and #ScarlettOnToday are trending on social media, as fans voice their opinions and react to the possibility of a big change. Entertainment outlets are also keeping the conversation alive, fueling rumors about Hoda’s wishes for Jenna to find a co-host who “clicks” with her.

What NBC Is Watching Closely

NBC executives are closely monitoring these key factors:

Ratings growth – How guest appearances from Johansson or Rogers affect viewership.

Social media buzz – The level of excitement and engagement generated by clips and reactions.

Long-term chemistry – Whether the pairing feels natural or forced.

Hoda Kotb emphasized that finding the right “click” with Jenna is a priority for NBC, signaling that chemistry is just as important as star power in this decision.

What’s Next

Official announcement: NBC could make a decision about the new co-host before the summer.

Rotating co-hosts: If a permanent match isn’t found, rotating guest hosts may continue.

A new era with a celebrity: If a major name like Johansson is chosen, it could signal a fresh chapter for the Today Show.

So, Who Might Be Replaced?

While no official exits have been confirmed, speculation centers around the possibility of a new co-anchor for Jenna on Today with Jenna & Friends. NBC may be testing potential replacements, and a major shake-up could be in the works to breathe new life into the show.

Conclusion: A Bold Gamble in Morning TV

At stake is not just viewership and ratings, but also NBC’s brand identity and viewer loyalty. The decision to replace a co-host with an A-list celebrity could be a game-changer—but it’s a gamble that might also face some backlash. If done right, it could rejuvenate the show for a new generation of viewers.