NEW YORK CITY — After weeks of subtle clues and low-key headlines, Claire Benson, the vibrant lifestyle correspondent for Today, has officially confirmed what many fans had long suspected: she’s expecting. And now, the news is out.

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In a touching Instagram video shared Monday morning, Benson revealed not only her pregnancy but also the arrival of her healthy baby girl — a moment that had fans, and even former colleagues, moved to tears.

“Keeping this a secret wasn’t easy,” she wrote in the post. “But we wanted to keep this special chapter just to ourselves for a little while. Now, I’m ready to share our joy with the world.”

Whispers, Absence, and Silence

Benson, 34, stepped back from her regular Today role in March 2025, citing “personal matters and a need to realign with family.” Almost immediately, speculation swirled. Was she on a break? Starting a new project? Or, as many suspected, was she pregnant?

The rumors gained momentum when she was seen in late April wearing loose-fitting coats and avoiding high-profile events. Her absence from Today‘s 70th-anniversary special only added fuel to the fire.

The Big Reveal: A Magical Backyard Moment

In the now-viral video, which has garnered over 6.4 million views, Benson and her partner, musician Aiden Cross, are seen in a beautiful backyard, surrounded by loved ones. As soft music plays, a white box opens, releasing pink balloons into the air.

Cheers erupt.

“It’s a GIRL!!!” Claire exclaims, overwhelmed with emotion, as Aiden lifts her in celebration. “She’s here. She’s healthy. And she’s everything we prayed for.”

The video briefly cuts to the couple holding their newborn, whom they named Harper Isla Cross.

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Outpouring of Support: ‘So Worth the Wait’

The comment section quickly filled with messages of support from fans and Today colleagues.

Savannah Guthrie wrote: “So many happy tears! Welcome to the world, little Harper 💗”
Hoda Kotb commented: “Claire! You beautiful secret-keeper! So proud of you. She’s perfect.”
Al Roker shared: “Pure sunshine. That’s what you just gave us.”

Why the Secrecy?

In a follow-up Q&A on her Instagram Stories, Benson explained that after experiencing two miscarriages, she felt it was important to “hold this pregnancy gently and quietly.”

“We wanted to celebrate without fear. To breathe. To prepare. And to fully soak in the miracle before the world’s noise could take over.”

She also revealed that she had given birth three weeks ago but waited until now to go public so she could recover, bond with her baby, and embrace motherhood fully.

Will She Return to Today?

NBC sources say the door remains “wide open” for Benson’s return, but for now, she’s focused on motherhood and possibly a book project.

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“She’s a core part of the Today family, and we support her in every season,” a spokesperson told The American Herald. “She’ll always have a home here.”

Claire’s Message to Fans

At the end of her gender reveal video, Benson shared a heartfelt message:

“To everyone who has followed me, cheered me on, and waited patiently… thank you. This has been the most beautiful plot twist of my life. Our hearts are full.”

Welcome to the world, Harper. Your story has already touched the hearts of millions.