Here’s a story that’s worth tuning in for: Laura Jarrett, the talented NBC correspondent, stepped up to the plate this past Monday, October 28, filling in for Jenna Bush Hager on Today With Hoda & Jenna. It’s moments like these that remind us just how seamlessly the show can continue even when one of its beloved hosts is temporarily absent.
Jenna Bush Hager Takes a Break Due to Illness
At the top of the hour, Hoda Kotb shared some behind-the-scenes details with viewers, explaining why Jenna wasn’t her usual cheerful self in the studio. “Jenna is a little under the weather. All of her kids got sick,” Hoda revealed. “You cannot escape the germs. They’re in the house, so she’s taking a little break.” It’s a reality many parents out there can relate to—when illness spreads through the household, sometimes the only option is to hit pause and focus on recovery. Jenna, who shares three adorable kids, Mila, Poppy, and Hal, with her husband Henry Hager, decided it was best to step back for the day.
Luckily, Laura Jarrett, the Weekend Today anchor, stepped right into the spotlight, ensuring the show went on without a hitch. Laura, who’s only 40 but already making waves in the broadcasting world, took over the news desk with ease and professionalism, proving she’s more than capable of handling the role.
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A Familiar Face in Jenna's Absence
Hoda warmly welcomed Laura during the episode, noting her quick return after a weekend off. “You worked Saturday, you had a little day off [on] Sunday, and now, you’re back again,” Hoda said with a smile. Laura’s presence wasn’t just a temporary fix; it’s part of a growing narrative around her potential future at NBC.
This guest appearance came just weeks after whispers began circulating that Laura might be the perfect candidate to take over when Hoda Kotb departs Today in early 2025. An NBC insider opened up to Us Weekly on September 26, the same day Hoda made her departure public. “The big contender who everyone at the network is talking about is Laura Jarrett — she has a really strong chance,” the source revealed. “She’s the anchor of Weekend Today; she is a lawyer like [Hoda’s coanchor] Savannah Guthrie. She’s a darling at the Today show who has risen up very quickly.”
The Speculation Begins
While NBC hasn’t officially announced Hoda’s successor, fans and insiders alike are buzzing with speculation. Several names have been thrown into the mix on social media, including the likes of Snoop Dogg, Sheinelle Jones, Craig Melvin, Maria Shriver, and Willie Geist. But don’t count Savannah Guthrie out of the conversation just yet.
Closer caught up with Savannah at Project Healthy Mind’s World Mental Health Day Gala at New York’s Spring Studios on October 10. When asked if she’d consider stepping into Hoda’s shoes, Savannah, who’s been a mainstay on Today for years, responded with a laugh. “Oh my gosh, of course, I mean, I love Jenna. I think they’ll probably go in a different direction.”
She added, “I think by 10:00, the show has had enough of me. But I’m here for a fill-in anytime. Jenna is one of my dear friends, too. The thing I’ll say is our show is in great hands. It’s not about one person or two people. There’s an entire cast, an entire ensemble, and we’re family.”
Hoda's NBC Legacy Continues
Even as Hoda prepares to step away from Today after 17 incredible years, she’s not leaving the NBC family entirely. An insider shared with Closer earlier this month, “She’s not planning on disappearing from the network. She’s hoping to do some specials and fill in from time to time.”
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Another source chimed in, saying Hoda, who’s a mom to daughters Haley and Hope, already has plenty of exciting opportunities lined up. “The NBC bosses are desperate to keep her in the fold and ease her into a more serious anchor role for prime-time specials,” the source explained. It’s clear that Hoda’s influence and charm will continue to be felt across the network for years to come.
