EXCLUSIVE: HODA KOTB WON’T BE ON SET FOR SAVANNAH GUTHRIE’S BIG ‘TODAY’ RETURN

INSIDERS SAY HAVING HODA THERE COULD FEEL “AWKWARD” AS THE SHOW RESETS WITH SAVANNAH AND CRAIG

Hello, hello, hello…

When Savannah Guthrie returns to Today on April 6, one very familiar face will be missing: Hoda Kotb.

Sources tell Naughty But Nice that Hoda will not be on set for Savannah’s emotional comeback — marking a quiet but significant shift behind the scenes.

“This is Savannah and Craig’s moment now,” one insider says. “Moving forward, they are the co-hosts. That’s the team.”

That means Craig Melvin will be firmly back beside Savannah — after weeks of speculation about the show’s direction.

“There’s no confusion anymore,” the source adds. “Craig is the guy next to Savannah.”

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And bringing Hoda into that moment? Insiders say it just doesn’t work.

“What would she do — sit off to the side?” one producer-level source says bluntly. “This isn’t a three-host show. It would feel awkward.”

There has been internal discussion about Hoda making a brief appearance — something insiders say she’s open to — but producers are hesitant.

“Hoda would happily stop by,” the insider reveals. “But the concern is it muddies the message. They want a clean reset.”

The strategy is clear: stability for Savannah during an incredibly difficult time.

“She needs consistency,” a source explains. “Craig provides that. He’s steady, supportive, and completely in her corner.”

As for Hoda, sources insist there’s no bad blood — just a new reality.

“Hoda will always be part of the Today family,” the insider says. “But this chapter belongs to Savannah and Craig.”

Cheers,
Rob Shuter

And remember… if you’re going to be naughty, you’ve got to be nice. 💋