The suspense has been building for months, fueled by rumors, screen tests, and an endless parade of celebrity guests. But now, the dust has finally settled at Rockefeller Plaza. NBC has officially solidified the new era of the Today show following the emotional departure of beloved anchor Hoda Kotb, and the result is a move so bold and unexpected that it has left many industry insiders—and viewers at home—completely speechless.

While veteran newsman Craig Melvin was swiftly tapped to fill Hoda’s shoes alongside Savannah Guthrie in the flagship 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. hours earlier this year, the fate of the popular fourth hour—formerly Today with Hoda & Jenna—remained the subject of intense speculation. Fans clamored for a permanent partner for Jenna Bush Hager, tossing around names like Laura Jarrett, Sheinelle Jones, and even wild cards like Kelly Clarkson.

However, NBC has unveiled a “surprising” solution that defies tradition: There will be no single permanent co-host.

In a decision that sources call a “modern experiment” and critics label a “risky gamble,” the network has officially committed to the Today with Jenna & Friends format as the permanent future of the franchise. The “new co-host” is, in fact, a rotating roster of Hollywood stars, comedians, and news personalities, a strategy that has sparked behind-the-scenes drama and left former contenders reportedly furious.

The “New Era” No One Saw Coming

When Hoda Kotb announced she was stepping down in late 2024 to focus on her daughters and a new chapter in her life, the immediate question was: Who can possibly replace her? The chemistry between Hoda and Jenna was the show’s beating heart, a “happy hour” energy that resonated with millions.

“NBC looked at the landscape and realized that Hoda is irreplaceable,” a network insider revealed exclusively. “Instead of trying to force a new ‘duo’ that might feel counterfeit, they decided to pivot. The ‘Friends’ concept was supposed to be a temporary bridge, but the engagement numbers told a different story.”

The “shocking” aspect for many traditionalists is the permanence of the decision. Viewers who crave the stability of a familiar morning duo are now adjusting to a “revolving door” of energy. One week it’s Andy Cohen stirring the pot; the next, it’s a heartwarming week with actress Taraji P. Henson. While it keeps the content fresh, it also removes the deep, developing friendship narrative that Hoda and Jenna built over years.

Behind-the-Scenes Drama Exposed

The decision to forego a permanent hire hasn’t come without its casualties. Reports suggest that several internal candidates who had been “auditioning” for the role—stepping in for segments and chemistry tests—were blindsided by the news that the chair would remain open.

“There were definitely people in the building who thought this was their time,” the source added. “To find out that the ‘replacement’ is essentially a booking strategy rather than a promotion? It ruffled some feathers. There are egos involved, and naturally, some are furious that the coveted spot has effectively been eliminated.”

Among the names frequently mentioned as frontrunners were Today mainstays like Sheinelle Jones and Dylan Dreyer. Both remain integral parts of the show’s third hour, but the fourth hour’s lucrative and high-profile co-anchor slot was seen as the next logical step. By keeping it a “Friends” format, NBC avoids picking one talent over another—but potentially alienates them all.

Craig Melvin: The Anchor of Stability

While the fourth hour experiments with its format, the main show has found its rock in Craig Melvin. His transition to the main anchor desk alongside Savannah Guthrie has been seamless, though it marked a distinct shift in tone. Hoda brought a signature warmth and emotional vulnerability; Melvin brings a sharp, journalistic edge and a cool, collected “Southern charm.”

“Craig was the safe, smart choice for the news block,” says media analyst Sarah Collins. “He has the credibility and the tenure. But the fourth hour is a different beast. It’s about vibes, wine, and confessions. That’s why the ‘Jenna & Friends’ pivot is so fascinating—it turns the show into a daily talk show variety hour rather than a standard news program.”

Is This the Future or the Downfall?

The reaction from fans has been mixed, to say the least. Social media threads are filled with viewers expressing their confusion and disappointment. “I miss the connection,” wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter). “I want to see Jenna bond with one person, not reinvent the wheel every Monday.”

Others, however, praise the unpredictability. “It’s like a box of chocolates now,” commented a Facebook fan. “You never know who you’re going to get. It keeps Jenna on her toes!”

NBC is clearly betting on the latter. By leveraging celebrity power and the “event” nature of guest hosts, they hope to capture a younger, more digital-savvy audience that consumes clips on TikTok and Instagram rather than watching a full hour of linear TV.

Jenna Bush Hager Stands Alone

Ultimately, this move places Jenna Bush Hager firmly in the spotlight. She is no longer the “junior” partner or the “new girl.” She is the anchor, the constant, and the face of the brand. It is a massive vote of confidence from NBC, but also a tremendous pressure.

“Jenna has proven she can steer the ship,” the insider concluded. “This is her show now. The ‘Friends’ are just guests in her house.”

As the Today show marches into 2026, the landscape of morning television has undeniably changed. Hoda Kotb has moved on to her “sunrise,” and NBC has chosen to embrace the chaos of the new rather than replicate the comfort of the old. Whether this bold experiment will sustain the show’s ratings dominance or alienate its loyal core remains the true cliffhanger.

What do you think of NBC’s decision? Do you love the rotating “Friends” or do you want a permanent co-host for Jenna? Let us know in the comments!