Hoda Kotb Reportedly on List to Take Over Kelly Clarkson's Talk Show After 'Today' Exit

Rumors are swirling that Kelly Clarkson may leave her talk show next year — and Hoda Kotb is a leading contender to replace her, according to an NBC insider.

Hoda Kotb's unexpected departure from "Today" in January caught fans off guard, but she remains a favorite within NBC. According to an insider, she's among those being considered to replace Kelly Clarkson on her talk show.

With Clarkson's contract expiring next year, it's unclear whether NBC plans to renew "The Kelly Clarkson Show." Recently, rumors have swirled about the singer's departure, with the broadcasting company reportedly actively looking for replacements.

Now, an NBC insider has revealed that "there's a long list of names, and Hoda is part of that list." The insider added that the company "never wanted Hoda to leave," and the question at large is whether Hoda would accept an offer if they gave it to her.

It's a busy year for Clarkson, who is set to release her ninth studio album in June. She's also preparing for a new Las Vegas residency, running from July 4 to August 16, 2025, and returning again from November 7 to 15.

Amid her packed schedule, Clarkson has been candid about behind-the-scenes tensions on her talk show. During a recent performance at Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena in Atlantic City, New Jersey, she opened up about clashes with HR over her tendency to compliment guests.

"Every time I go to an HR meeting, I'm like, 'How have I not been fired?'" she told the audience, explaining that she often ignores HR's warnings about commenting on appearances.

According to Clarkson, HR cautioned that compliments could make people "feel bad that they looked bad before," but the singer sees things differently. "I was fat before, so I'm saying I want you to say, 'Damn,'" she explained.

With the future of Clarkson's talk show still uncertain, fans will have to wait to see whether Kotb steps into the spotlight, or if the singer will continue to hold the reins.