Is Hoda Kotb Set to Replace Kelly Clarkson? NBC Scrambles Amid Daytime TV Crisis

As Kelly Clarkson battles mounting burnout and growing speculation about her future in daytime television, sources close to NBC say network executives are quietly finalizing plans to bring veteran broadcaster Hoda Kotb back into the solo spotlight.

According to a report from The National ENQUIRER, Kotb, 60, is the “top contender” to step in if Clarkson exits The Kelly Clarkson Show, potentially ahead of her contract’s expiration in 2026. Clarkson, 43, has reportedly been feeling “mentally done,” and recent behind-the-scenes tensions may be pushing her toward an early departure.

Clarkson’s burnout sparking early exit talks

Sources say Clarkson has struggled with the daily demands of filming the Emmy-winning talk show. In March and April, she skipped several episodes without explanation, relying on celebrity guest hosts to fill in. Later, during a concert appearance, she admitted the talk show schedule had been the main reason she hadn’t performed live recently.

An insider noted that Clarkson’s comments upset some of her staff, leading to “a sense of betrayal” among her team and contributing to already low morale on set.

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“She’s worried about her staff losing their jobs,” the source shared, “but if someone like Hoda steps in, the show will go on — and that’s comforting for her.”

Kotb’s return to solo hosting could be imminent

Hoda Kotb, a beloved figure from NBC’s Today show, previously brushed off rumors of a potential move to daytime hosting. But during a June 5 interview, she notably shifted her stance, saying she’s a “never-say-never person” and admitting that “TV is [her] first love.”

Sources close to the negotiations say NBC is offering Kotb a significant deal to lead her own talk show, potentially revamping Clarkson’s existing format or relaunching the series under a new name.

“Hoda’s not chasing anything,” one source said. “She’s in control and knows her value. But the offers being floated around are serious money — and serious reach.”

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Kotb, known for her warm presence and instant viewer rapport, is viewed by NBC as the safest bet to continue the momentum The Kelly Clarkson Show has built over the last five seasons. Executives are reportedly eager to lock her in before Clarkson makes an official announcement.

NBC betting big on familiar face

Industry insiders say networks are “drooling” over the possibility of Kotb anchoring a daily talk show of her own again. While nothing has been formally confirmed, sources say an announcement may come soon, as both NBC and Clarkson evaluate the show’s long-term direction.

“Hoda with her own show is pure gold,” the insider said. “And if Kelly walks, they want someone who can hold that audience.”

Clarkson has not publicly addressed the reports, and Kotb has only offered vague commentary about her future.

For now, NBC viewers — and staff — are watching closely.

NBC may soon face a major shakeup in its daytime lineup as rumors swirl that Today co-anchor Hoda Kotb is being considered to take over The Kelly Clarkson Show. The potential move comes amid rising concerns about Clarkson’s long-term commitment to the show, as sources close to production cite signs of burnout and a desire to step back from the relentless demands of daytime television.

Clarkson, who launched her talk show in 2019 to critical acclaim and strong ratings, recently relocated the show’s production from Los Angeles to New York — a move insiders say was made to help her be closer to family and regain work-life balance. However, even with the relocation, sources say the Grammy-winning singer is struggling with the pressures of hosting a daily talk show, filming multiple episodes a week, and juggling other personal and professional obligations.

NBC executives are reportedly worried about the show’s future, especially as it has become a cornerstone of the network’s daytime schedule following the end of The Ellen DeGeneres Show. Clarkson’s warm, relatable hosting style helped fill the void left by Ellen and kept NBC competitive in the crowded daytime space. Losing her could throw the network into crisis.

Enter Hoda Kotb.

Known for her experience, charm, and strong audience connection, Kotb is reportedly being eyed as a top contender to take over if Clarkson steps down. Kotb already commands a major presence on Today and has proven her ability to balance warmth with journalistic credibility — qualities that daytime audiences value.

Still, NBC has not made any official announcements, and both Clarkson and Kotb have remained silent publicly about the rumors. Insiders suggest the network is exploring all options to secure the future of its daytime programming, which is critical not only for ratings but also for advertising revenue.

Whether Kotb will truly replace Clarkson remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: NBC is preparing for change — and viewers may soon be tuning in to a very different face during their daytime routine.