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Hoda Kotb’s recent decision to step away from the Today show has prompted some speculation about other changes in the NBC morning lineup – particularly if co-host Savannah Guthrie will be joining her.
Following Kotb’s announcement in late September, Guthrie hinted at potential transitions in her own life during an appearance at the Project Healthy Minds 2nd Annual World Mental Health Day Gala in New York City on Thursday, October 10.
While speaking with Us Weekly, the 52-year-old reflected on her close friendship with Kotb, 60, noting, “We’re dear friends and we have a lot of similarities,” and adding that they are “basically in the same phase of life,” seemingly suggesting a change is on the horizon for herself as well.
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Guthrie continued, emphasizing how she understood her longtime friend’s decision. “We have these little kids that we both feel so lucky that we got to have later in life. It makes a lot of sense to me what she has decided,” she stated to the outlet. Guthrie shares two children with her husband, Michael Feldman: Vale, 10, and Charles, 7. Kotb similarly has two children with ex-fiancé Joel Schiffman: Haley, 7, and Hope, 5.
However, rumors have surfaced that Guthrie may be considering her own departure, with a source revealing to Page Six that “there was chatter that Savannah was planning her own exit for 2025,” and speculated that since Kotb has announced her departure, it “has made that all but impossible.” A report from The Daily Mail also revealed that the TV personality’s contract is due for renewal next year.
Guthrie openly shared her feelings about Kotb’s exit during the emotional announcement last month. “We love you so much. And when you look around and see these tears, they are love. You are so loved,” she told her co-host. “It’s complicated because we love you so much and we don’t want you to ever go,” she confessed before saying, “I am so proud of my friend. You have guts.”
Kotb will continue on Today until early next year and will remain with NBC, although the specific nature of her future position is unknown.