Hoda Kotb
Photo Credit: Nathan Congleton/NBC via Getty Images

With Today co-host Savannah Guthrie’s continued absence, Hoda Kotb may be angling to resume her permanent co-hosting position. Hoda, who left her job a year ago to spend more time with her children, is now on her fifth week of filling in for Savannah.

NBC execs are reportedly looking at all the options in the event Savannah decides not to return. Those in the newsroom are said to be wondering whether Hoda will take her place if she resigns.

The Today show’s lineup continues to shift amid Nancy Guthrie’s disappearance

Savannah Guthrie and Craig Melvin
Photo Credit: Nathan Congleton/NBC via Getty Images

Radar sources report that Hoda is willing to return to co-hosting full-time. Although she is supporting her friend after her mother’s abduction, Hoda sees an opportunity to resume her Today Show anchor duties full-time, sources say. “Hoda is a popular figure, but there’s a lot of panic right now about how things could shape up down the line,” according to an insider. “She’s keen to stay on and reclaim her full-time gig – even if Savannah does return.”

If a shakeup occurs, there may be repercussions for Savannah’s co-host, Craig Melvin. According to a source, Craig is “understandably nervous” that his position may change if there’s any upheaval.

Those in NBC’s newsroom wonder if Hoda will be a suitable replacement if Savannah leaves the show. “The bosses are leaving the door wide open and praying Savannah returns,” an insider reveals. “They’re keen to emphasize that there’s no pressure and everyone needs to remain supportive and focused during this incredibly challenging time. But at the end of the day, business is business. Having Savannah away for this long has ripped the heart out of the show, and ratings are bound to suffer, as well as staff morale. It’s a real pins and needles situation right now. Everyone’s hoping and praying for a miracle as far as Savannah’s ordeal, but bracing themselves for major turmoil.”

Morning shows are a cut-throat, competitive business, so at some point, feelings need to be put aside, said another network insider. “They need stability. They need a steady hand. That hand is Hoda,” they said.