Today Show Seeks Permanent Co-Host After Hoda Kotb Departure

The TODAY show is continuing its search for a permanent co-host to join Jenna Bush Hager on the fourth hour following Hoda Kotb's departure earlier this year. In the meantime, the program has featured a rotating lineup of guest hosts, including Scarlett Johansson, Dwyane Wade, Erin Andrews, Taraji P. Henson, Keke Palmer, and Amy Poehler. Carson Daly, a feature anchor on TODAY, has expressed support for maintaining the rotating co-host format, noting that it keeps the show fresh and allows for diverse talent to shine. While Johansson has been a fan favorite, Daly noted she is the highest-grossing actor of all time and too expensive for a permanent role on the show. Bush Hager has stated that they still hope to find a permanent co-host eventually, emphasizing the importance of the role within the TODAY family. Hoda Kotb praised Bush Hager as a bright light and expressed confidence that whoever fills the seat will have an easy job working alongside her.