Hoda Kotb just bid her last goodbye on Today, but reports are already suggesting that the outpouring love for the host from her loyal fans has producers questioning if they did the right thing.
An unnamed source claimed that several viewers have chimed in to say how much they will miss Kotb. It has made it very clear just how loved the host is so network bosses are said to be anxious that fans would stop watching in now that she is gone.
Most, if not all, fans can recall that the 60-year-old single mom divulged in September that she will be leaving the show after over two decades to spend more time with her children—Joy and Hope Catherine.
Critics wonder how Savannah Guthrie and Jenna Bush Hager would survive the ratings game now that Kotb is out and was replaced by the “less popular” Craig Melvin.
“Saying goodbye has been very emotional for Kotb. Even though she has said that she wanted this change and chose this of her own accord, she’s taking it hard—and so are the fans,” the anonymous insider told National Enquirer.
It added that the pressure is now on for Hager and Guthrie to prove they can keep folks tuning in.
“All eyes are going to be on the numbers in the next few weeks and even months. It’s a make or break time for [Guthrie] and [Hager], and there is no doubt they’re feeling the stress,” the informant went on.
Melvin is stepping in as Guthrie’s co-anchor, while Hager will continue hosting the show’s fourth hour under the title Today with Jenna & Friends, which will feature a rotating panel of guest hosts.
“Both Savannah and Jenna are saying they can handle things, but it really will come down to the ratings. If they don’t stay steady—or even worse, if they start to slip—it’s not going to bode well for them,” the mole said.
It was previously reported that Guthrie and Hager regretted that their mean-girl routine drove away Kotb. The pair, according to claims, did not expect her to leave and they are said to be realizing how much she contributed to the show now that she is gone.
Now, Guthrie and Hager allegedly fear that Melvin does not have the same devoted viewership as Kotb. “It may be very rude awakening. Producers are already jittery, so if [Kotb’s] millions of fans start to tune out, [Hager] and [Guthrie] are going to get the blame,” the mole shared.
Today’s Esquire has reached out to Hoda Kobt for comments.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Jaja’s career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including Business Times and Brigada. As a news editor, she covered a wide range of beats, including business, economy, cryptocurrency, and personal finance. Additionally, she has successfully managed teams of writers producing content on gaming, technology, and entertainment.
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