Matt Lauer’s departure from The Today Show in November 2017 marked a significant turning point for the iconic morning program. His dismissal following allegations of inappropriate behavior left a noticeable void at the anchor desk, one that would require someone with a unique set of skills and charisma to fill. As the program scrambled to find a permanent replacement for the former co-anchor, viewers were left wondering who would take over the position, and how this change would impact the future of The Today Show.
In this article, we explore who replaced Matt Lauer on The Today Show, the journey of finding the new co-anchor, and the impact of that decision on the show’s dynamic and ratings.
Matt Lauer’s Departure: A Pivotal Moment for The Today Show
Matt Lauer had been one of the most recognizable faces on American television for decades, having anchored The Today Show since 1997. His sudden exit was a major moment in broadcasting history. Lauer was a key player in shaping The Today Show’s dominance as a morning news program. The show had been in fierce competition with Good Morning America, but Lauer’s popularity and experience made him the perfect fit as co-anchor alongside Savannah Guthrie, and later, Hoda Kotb.
However, the tide turned in November 2017 when Lauer was fired by NBC following allegations of sexual harassment by multiple women. This left a vacancy at the co-anchor desk and created an uncertain future for the show. The scandal was widely covered, and NBC had to respond carefully, considering both the ongoing allegations and how to replace such a prominent figure.
The Immediate Aftermath: Hoda Kotb Takes the Lead
In the wake of Lauer’s departure, The Today Show made an immediate decision to try to maintain its balance with familiar faces. Hoda Kotb, who had already been a popular figure on the show for years, was named the interim co-anchor alongside Savannah Guthrie. Kotb had been with NBC for more than a decade at the time and was no stranger to the morning show format, having spent time as a fill-in anchor on The Today Show for various assignments.
Hoda Kotb was an obvious choice due to her warm personality, strong journalistic background, and established rapport with the audience. She was best known for her role as the co-anchor of the fourth hour of The Today Show alongside Kathie Lee Gifford. The fourth hour, a more lighthearted, entertainment-focused segment, had become a fan favorite, with Kotb bringing an infectious energy to the program. Her warm, approachable demeanor made her an ideal replacement in the interim.
The decision to place Kotb in the chair alongside Guthrie was praised by many, as it immediately brought a sense of stability to the program. Savannah Guthrie had already been on The Today Show for years and was a highly regarded journalist and anchor. Together, Guthrie and Kotb formed a dynamic, female-led anchor team that resonated with audiences.
Hoda Kotb: The Permanent Co-Anchor
While Hoda Kotb initially filled in as a temporary co-anchor, NBC’s executives recognized her ability to connect with viewers and the chemistry between her and Guthrie. In February 2018, after a few months of successful collaboration, Kotb was named the permanent co-anchor of The Today Show. This announcement was met with widespread acclaim, as Kotb had quickly proven herself to be a comfortable and confident presence on the desk.
Kotb’s appointment marked a new era for the morning show, as she became the first woman of color to co-anchor The Today Show. Her selection was seen as a positive step in diversifying the program, and Kotb’s journey from filling in as a temporary co-anchor to securing the permanent position highlighted her growth within NBC. This was especially notable in contrast to the departure of Matt Lauer, who had been the face of the show for years.
Her appointment also reflected a broader cultural shift within the television industry, as networks sought to become more inclusive and forward-thinking in their staffing decisions.
How Kotb and Guthrie’s Partnership Transformed The Today Show
Hoda Kotb’s partnership with Savannah Guthrie was not only successful from a ratings perspective, but it also helped shift the tone and image of The Today Show. The two women brought an authenticity and relatability to the program that viewers appreciated. Kotb’s sense of humor, combined with Guthrie’s no-nonsense journalistic approach, created a balanced and engaging dynamic.
Their chemistry was undeniable, and this played a significant role in keeping The Today Show relevant in a competitive market. The show had been facing a ratings challenge from Good Morning America, which had gained ground in the wake of Lauer’s departure. However, Kotb’s natural rapport with Guthrie and her ability to engage with both celebrity guests and hard news stories helped The Today Show maintain its audience.
The Reception of Kotb as Co-Anchor
The public reception of Kotb’s new role was overwhelmingly positive. Fans quickly warmed to her personality and felt she had an easy connection with Guthrie. Many viewers expressed excitement over the shift, noting that Kotb brought a sense of joy and lightheartedness to the program. Her humor and down-to-earth nature balanced well with Guthrie’s more serious journalistic tone, making them an effective pairing.
Kotb’s arrival in the permanent co-anchor chair was also marked by the respect she earned from her peers. Her colleagues praised her for her work ethic, professionalism, and the compassion she showed in her reporting. Kotb’s rise to the top of the Today Show was an inspiring story, especially considering her previous work as a correspondent on Dateline NBC and her experiences as a journalist.
Her presence helped to soften the sharp edges that had come with the controversy surrounding Lauer’s exit. The lighthearted nature Kotb brought was a balm to many who were still grappling with the allegations against Lauer. It felt like a fresh start, one in which the emphasis was placed on the new co-anchors’ positive energy and collective work.
The Lasting Impact of Kotb’s Appointment
Since Kotb’s permanent appointment in 2018, she and Guthrie have become staples in morning television. Their partnership has been successful both in terms of viewership and public perception. The Today Show has largely recovered from the tumultuous period surrounding Lauer’s exit, maintaining its position as a leader in morning news.
In addition to her work on The Today Show, Kotb has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry. She has authored books, appeared on a variety of talk shows, and continued to grow her presence as a television personality. Her success on the program also helped bring attention to The Today Show’s broader efforts to feature diverse voices in the media, an issue that had gained national prominence in the wake of the #MeToo movement.
Under Kotb’s tenure, The Today Show has continued to cover breaking news, highlight human interest stories, and maintain its place in the pop culture conversation. Kotb’s focus on kindness and empathy, paired with Guthrie’s focus on serious journalism, allowed the show to deliver both entertainment and hard-hitting news in an accessible format.
Conclusion
Hoda Kotb’s appointment as Matt Lauer’s permanent replacement on The Today Show was a key moment in both her career and the future of the program. Her easy rapport with Savannah Guthrie, her professional background, and her sense of humor have made her an indispensable part of the show. While the challenges of replacing a high-profile figure like Lauer were undoubtedly significant, Kotb’s success as co-anchor has solidified her place in television history.
As The Today Show moves forward with its refreshed format, Kotb and Guthrie’s partnership will continue to serve as the foundation for the program’s success. Their ability to adapt to changing times and engage with both serious and lighthearted topics ensures that The Today Show remains a fixture in American morning television.
Related topics:
