As the Today show undergoes a major shift, fans are wondering who will step in as the new co-host alongside Jenna Bush Hager after Hoda Kotb’s departure. 

Kotb herself, who spent years alongside Bush Hager on the show’s fourth hour, admits she’s curious to know who will fill her shoes.

“I’m dying to find out who it’s going to be,” Kotb, 60, shared with PEOPLE at the inaugural Runway for Recovery fashion show in New York City. 

Despite no longer being part of the daily routine on Today, Kotb expressed excitement about watching the evolving dynamics of the segment, which is currently titled Jenna & Friends. 

The show features a different celebrity guest each week as a potential co-host until a permanent replacement is found. 

“I’ve been talking with Jenna about it. I keep saying, ‘Who’s going to be our friend forever?’” Kotb shared, reflecting her enthusiasm for the transition period.

The changes in Today’s lineup have been a journey for Kotb, especially as she stepped back to focus on her family. She retired temporarily from her role to spend more time with her daughters, Haley Joy, 9, and Hope Catherine, 5, but has remained a supportive presence in the Today family. Kotb, who always knew the talent of her co-host, emphasized how proud she is of Bush Hager’s ability to handle the transition with grace. “What this has shown me is that Jenna is a mega talent,” Kotb commented. “It was always clear to me, but it’s even clearer because now I’m watching her have blind dates every week with new co-hosts, and the common thread is how awesome she is. She’s incredible. So whoever she chooses is going to be great with her.”

In addition to the shift in the fourth hour, Kotb’s absence has been felt in other parts of the Today show. Craig Melvin, who was announced as Kotb’s replacement for the 7 and 8 a.m. hours, has seamlessly joined the team alongside Savannah Guthrie. Kotb, ever the optimist, couldn’t be more thrilled about the pairing. “Savannah and Craig — come on,” Kotb said. “It’s like two peas in a pod, man. That was so meant to be.”

While Kotb may no longer be anchoring the Today show, her connection with Bush Hager and Guthrie remains as strong as ever. The trio, who have shared years of memories together on-air, continue to support each other as they navigate new chapters in their lives. Kotb added that her bond with her colleagues is one of mutual care and support. “I’ll talk to them, I’ll call them,” she shared. “They’re like, ‘What can we do? When do you need me?’ So they are here for my next great adventure. It’s just fun.”

Though her role on Today has come to an end, Kotb’s heartwarming memories with the show are far from forgotten. One of the most sentimental items she holds dear are the friendship bracelets she received on her last day. “All these bracelets that I got are from people who gave me them on the last day,” Kotb said, pointing to a stack of bracelets she’s been wearing ever since. “This lady gave me one that says ‘January 10, 2025’ — she gave me the date. This one says ‘Today show.’ This one says, ‘Hoda. Be kind.’” These keepsakes serve as a constant reminder of the friendships she built throughout her time at Today.

As for what’s next for Kotb, she’s already looking forward to new ventures. In May, she plans to launch a wellness initiative, signaling the start of her next chapter. “I’m feeling fresh,” Kotb said with a bright smile. “I’m feeling sunny.” With the future looking promising, Kotb’s positive outlook shows that she is ready for whatever comes next, while still holding a special place for her time on Today and the memories she’s made with her co-hosts and friends.

The search for her replacement on Today may be ongoing, but it’s clear that Kotb’s legacy at the show, as well as her unwavering support for Bush Hager and the Today team, will always be cherished. As the segment evolves with new co-hosts, it’s evident that the bonds Kotb formed during her years at Today will continue to shine through, no matter where her career takes her next.

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