While NBC’s Today isn’t among the many shows ending in 2024, Hoda Kotb stunned viewers nationwide by announcing that her time as a morning show co-host will come to an end as the year wraps up. Fans are eagerly awaiting news of who will take her place, but in the meantime, another surprising development has surfaced. Reportedly, Kotb’s announcement disrupted a colleague’s alleged plans to reveal their own departure.
Before Kotb’s public decision to step down, some network insiders believed that Today co-host Savannah Guthrie was preparing to make her own exit. Now, with one mainstay leaving, NBC is reportedly clinging tightly to Guthrie to ensure she stays on board.
Since replacing Ann Curry in 2012, Savannah Guthrie has been a beloved part of Today, but according to Page Six, recent behind-the-scenes discussions suggested that the Australian-born anchor was preparing to step away after covering the upcoming presidential election. However, Hoda Kotb’s announcement of her departure has reportedly thrown a wrench into those plans.
Sources say NBC executives recognize Guthrie’s immense value and would love to keep her on the show long-term. As one insider put it:
"She's a multi-talent who can shift gears effortlessly, and the network would like her to stay forever."
Following Kotb’s announcement, Guthrie reportedly handled the situation with grace, offering support and keeping spirits high among staff. One team member described her as someone who lifted everyone up during the transition.
Rumors about Guthrie's potential departure began swirling earlier this year, following the release of her book Mostly What God Does: Reflections on Seeking and Finding, which became a New York Times bestseller. This, combined with her past comments about not wanting to “overstay her welcome” on the show, fueled speculation that she was planning a future beyond Today.
For now, it seems Guthrie will remain with Today through the 2024 TV season, continuing alongside Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager. Once Kotb departs, Guthrie will likely take a leading role on the show. Although Guthrie’s contract runs for another year, it remains to be seen if further changes will come after that time.
As for Hoda Kotb, her departure has been linked to reported pay cuts, with some claims that both she and Guthrie earned over $20 million annually. However, Page Six sources suggest those figures are inflated, placing their actual earnings closer to $8 million per year.
