As Hoda Kotb gears up to step away from her role on 'Today' in early 2025, Jenna Bush Hager is reportedly positioning herself to take advantage of the shift in dynamics, according to exclusive sources. She's not just looking for a bigger paycheck but also for the recognition and power she deserves, insiders tell Closer.
With Hoda’s departure on the horizon, Jenna finds herself in a unique position. "Jenna’s coming into her own now that Hoda’s moving on, and the show really needs her," explains an insider. "She’s proving to be a crucial part of the 'Today' team, and she knows it."
Hoda Kotb, who turned 60 this year, dropped the bombshell about leaving 'Today' on the September 26 episode. While she’s stepping back from the morning show, she’ll remain a valued member of the NBC family, working on other projects. As the countdown to her departure begins, Jenna Bush Hager, 42, remains committed to the show, but there’s one issue that's been on her mind—her salary.
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Jenna Bush Hager's Salary Debate: Fairness at Stake
Jenna reportedly earns $4 million annually, which pales in comparison to the hefty paychecks Hoda and co-anchor Savannah Guthrie receive. “It’s not about the money—it’s about fairness,” the source reveals. “Savannah earns double what Jenna makes, and that’s not right. Jenna’s pulling her weight, and then some. She’s just as important as Savannah and Al [Roker].”
With Hoda’s exit, the 'Today' team is bracing for change, but producers are keen to avoid further upheaval. "They’re desperate to keep things stable," the insider discloses. "They don’t want Jenna to feel undervalued, so they’ll need to step up and offer her what she deserves to keep her happy and committed."
Will Jenna's New Deal Rub Savannah the Wrong Way?
If Jenna does secure the salary and recognition she’s aiming for, it might not sit well with Savannah Guthrie, 52. "Sources close to the situation say Jenna will have a tough time explaining all this to Savannah," the source adds. "Savannah’s been in the business much longer and might feel her leadership status is being challenged. But Jenna wants her fair share of the pie, and she’s determined to get it."
Despite their friendly appearances, insiders suggest there could be tension brewing between Jenna and Savannah. "They may be friends who hang out at dinner parties and kids’ birthdays, but Jenna wants her fair share of the spotlight and more benefits," the insider adds.
Hoda's Next Chapter: Opportunities Galore
Meanwhile, Hoda Kotb is looking forward to her new opportunities at NBC. Another source told Closer that Hoda hasn’t been entirely comfortable with the dynamic between herself, Savannah, and Jenna lately, making her decision to move on all the more welcome.
Hoda has "plenty of exciting opportunities lined up," the source confirms. "NBC is eager to keep her within the network and transition her into a more serious anchor role for prime-time specials." These new ventures promise to be lucrative for Hoda. "She’ll earn great money, and the best part is, she won’t have to wake up at dawn anymore, tiptoeing around other personalities she found difficult to deal with toward the end."
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Hoda will also get to spend more quality time with her daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine. During her announcement, she expressed her desire to focus more on family. "Having kids later in life, I realized they deserve more of my time," she shared with viewers. "Time is precious, and this was a tough but necessary decision."
