Hoda Kotb has been named as Matt Lauer’s replacement on NBC’s Today show.
The award-winning TV presenter has been filling in as co-host on the morning program since Lauer’s termination from the network in November (17). Lauer’s dismissal came after a colleague made a “detailed” complaint accusing him of inappropriate sexual behavior.
Now, Kotb is set to join Savannah Guthrie behind the anchor desk, marking a groundbreaking departure from the typical male/female co-anchor format.
“This has to be the most popular decision NBC News has ever made,” said Guthrie as she shared the news of her 53-year-old co-host’s appointment, at the start of the show.
While Kotb added: “There’s no one I’d rather be sitting next to in 2018 than you.”
NBC News chairman Andy Lack announced Kotb’s promotion in a memo to staff on Tuesday (02Jan18).
“Over the past several weeks, Hoda has seamlessly stepped into the co-anchor role alongside Savannah, and the two have quickly hit the ground running,” he stated. “They have an undeniable connection with each other and most importantly, with viewers, a hallmark of Today.”
Kotb, joined the network in 1998, beginning with a stint in NBC News. She has been co-hosting the 10 am hour with Kathie Lee Gifford since 2008, alongside her role as a correspondent for Dateline NBC.
She will now add the 7 and 8 am hours to her working day, with Megyn Kelly helming the 9 am hour.
