Laura Jarrett a Top Contender to Replace Hoda Kotb Following Surprising ‘Today’ Exit

Fans are in disbelief after Hoda Kotb announced her departure from the Today show, leaving everyone eager to find out who will step into her shoes at the news desk in early 2025. An insider from NBC reveals that Laura Jarrett is a leading candidate for the role. Jarrett, currently the anchor of Weekend Today, brings a strong legal background, similar to that of Hoda’s co-host Savannah Guthrie, and has quickly become a beloved figure at the Today show since joining the team in 2023.

Though an official announcement has yet to be made regarding Hoda’s replacement, speculation is rife about potential candidates. The insider mentioned that network executives might consider reshuffling current anchors. This could mean pairing Craig Melvin with Savannah or having Sheinelle Jones, who co-hosts the third hour of Today, join her instead.

Filling Hoda’s position will not be an easy task. After spending 17 years with the Today team, Hoda has played a pivotal role in the morning show, co-anchoring alongside Savannah and hosting Today With Hoda & Jenna alongside Jenna Bush Hager since 2019. During an emotional episode of Today, Hoda reflected on her decision, saying she felt it was time to embrace a new chapter at 60. She expressed gratitude for the support she received during her tenure, saying it was a moment of triumph.

Looking ahead, Hoda is excited about dedicating more time to her two daughters, Haley and Hope, whom she shares with her ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman. With tears in her eyes, she shared, “I feel like we only have a finite amount of time,” emphasizing her desire to be more present in their lives.

Her colleagues were deeply moved by her announcement. Dylan Dreyer hinted that Hoda’s successor might already be within their circle. Speaking to E! News, she suggested that if anyone from their core team were to be named, it wouldn’t come as a shock. When asked if she had her eyes on Hoda’s position, she lightheartedly mentioned, “Everybody knows I’m trying to get Al Roker to retire, let’s be honest.”

As the search for Hoda’s successor continues, one thing is certain: the Today show will look very different in 2025, and fans will be watching closely to see how this new chapter unfolds.