In the never-ending whirlwind of celebrity chatter and daytime TV drama, the latest buzz has fans asking: Is Kelly Clarkson about to get replaced as host of The Kelly Clarkson Show? Whispers online have been hinting that none other than NBC favorite Hoda Kotb might be stepping in to take the reins. But is there any truth to it?
Here’s what we know.
What Sparked the Rumors?
It all started earlier this year when Kelly was noticeably absent from her show for a stretch of episodes. That silence triggered a wave of questions: was she just taking a break, or was something bigger going on behind the scenes?
Guest hosts began filling in, and suddenly the internet was ablaze with speculation. For longtime viewers, the pattern felt a little too familiar, just enough to wonder if Kelly might be quietly bowing out.
Hoda Kotb Sets the Record Straight
But before the rumor mill could spiral further, Hoda Kotb herself stepped up to clear the air. On May 28, 2025, an episode of Today, Kotb was asked point-blank if she was taking over The Kelly Clarkson Show.
Her response? A straight-up “No.”
“Delete, delete. That’s not true,” she said with a smile, brushing off the gossip with her usual charm. She made it clear that while she adores Kelly and roots for her, she has zero plans to jump into the host’s chair.
“If I ever go anywhere, it’s gonna be Today. That’s home,” she added, reaffirming her loyalty to the morning show that’s been part of her life for years.
Kelly Clarkson’s Absence Fueled the Fire
Still, it’s not hard to see why folks got curious. Clarkson took a two-week break from her show to handle a private family matter. Details were scarce, understandably so, and that silence left space for all kinds of theories to bloom online.
Some fans even speculated she might be considering stepping back to focus on her kids and personal life. Let’s be real: juggling a daily talk show, a music career, and being a full-time mom? That’s a lot.
But according to sources close to Clarkson, she’s not going anywhere. She’s still deeply invested in the show and, reportedly, more energized than ever about her role. NBC insiders also say the network is fully on board and excited about the show’s future.
What’s Hoda Up To, Then?
While she’s not angling for a new talk show job, Hoda Kotb is keeping busy. Her new project, Joy 101, is all about wellness and emotional health. Think: a mix of a mobile app, live events, and an uplifting newsletter, everything you’d expect from someone whose whole vibe is about warmth and resilience.
It’s a passion project for Kotb, and she’s diving into it headfirst. She’s been clear: Joy 101 is where her focus is right now, not hosting The Kelly Clarkson Show. Her upcoming appearance on Clarkson’s show? Just a friendly drop-in, not a career move.
No Feud, Just Friendship
Let’s squash another rumor while we’re at it: There’s no bad blood between Kelly and Hoda. The two seem to genuinely like and respect each other. Their upcoming episode together is shaping up to be more of a feel-good reunion than a hint of behind-the-scenes drama.
Fans are already looking forward to seeing them on the same stage, two women who’ve earned their spots in daytime TV with honesty, heart, and a sense of humor.
What Are the Next Steps for The Kelly Clarkson Show?
The future looks solid. Since its 2019 launch, The Kelly Clarkson Show has racked up multiple Daytime Emmys and built a fiercely loyal fanbase. Kelly’s blend of realness, warmth, and a killer singing voice has kept viewers coming back for more.
NBC doesn’t seem to be looking for a replacement anytime soon, either. There’s even talk of expanding the show’s reach. So yeah, despite the gossip, Clarkson isn’t going anywhere.
