Hoda Kotb is setting the record straight after rumors swirled that she might replace Kelly Clarkson. In her highly anticipated return to Today, Hoda firmly denied the claims, emphasizing her dedication to the show and her love for her co-hosts. While her future on Today remains clear, Hoda also introduced her new wellness venture, Joy 101, signaling an exciting new chapter in her life. From her personal reflections to family moments, Hoda’s journey is evolving—what’s next for the beloved anchor? Keep an eye on her next big move!

Hoda Kotb Slams Rumors She’s Taking Over Kelly Clarkson Show During Today Return

Hoda Kotb made her highly anticipated return to the Today show on Wednesday, just four months after stepping down from her co-anchor role to spend more time with her two daughters. The popular anchor made an appearance alongside Today hosts Savannah Guthrie and Craig Melvin, where she not only shared updates on her new wellness venture but also shut down rumors about her potential return to daily television, including speculation that she might replace Kelly Clarkson as host of The Kelly Clarkson Show.

Hoda Denies Replacing Kelly Clarkson

During her return to the Today show, Hoda quickly addressed the rumors surrounding her future career. Asked about speculation that she would be taking over The Kelly Clarkson Show, Hoda firmly denied the claims. “Delete. Not true,” she said with a laugh, before adding, “Do you think, if I ever came back to TV, do you know where the only place I would ever come back to is? Right here!” Hoda’s statement made it clear that, while she is open to new opportunities, her love for Today and her longstanding connection with the show remains a priority.

While Hoda was adamant she wouldn’t be replacing Kelly Clarkson, she did announce that she would appear on The Kelly Clarkson Show next week, signaling that her professional engagements are still very much active, but in a way that allows her to balance her personal and work life.

Hoda’s New Wellness Venture: Joy 101

During her time on Today, Hoda also took the opportunity to introduce her new project, Joy 101, a wellness business aimed at promoting mental and physical well-being. The platform will feature an app that offers personalized meditation sessions, courses, and conversations, focusing on helping people improve their overall happiness and lifestyle. Hoda also plans to host live events and “happiness hours,” which will run alongside the app, providing users with interactive and supportive content aimed at fostering personal growth.

This new venture comes after Hoda took time off to focus on her family and self-care. Her shift into the wellness space marks an exciting new chapter for the anchor, who has always been a source of inspiration for her fans. Hoda’s mission is clear: to share what she’s learned about finding joy, balancing life, and managing adversity.

Reflecting on Her Departure and Family Life

Hoda also took a moment to reflect on her time away from Today and the important role that her co-hosts, particularly Savannah Guthrie, played during her transition. “The deep conversations that we had daily, that I miss to my core, were such a building block for what I am building now,” Hoda shared with Savannah. She emphasized how her time away from work allowed her to rediscover what she truly loves and to pursue new passions.

One of the primary reasons Hoda stepped away from Today was to focus more on her family, particularly her daughter, Hope, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Hoda discussed how having more time with her daughters, Haley, eight, and Hope, six, has allowed her to shift her priorities. “You just get a priority check in your life. I can be here and sweating what is happening to Hope in the morning and the night, or I can be there and feel relief that I can see,” she said.

Hoda reflected on how she tries not to let her worries affect Hope. “There are just moments where you have to watch her. For 23.5 hours she’s every other kid. So I try to remember that,” she shared, emphasizing that Hope is doing well and is like any other child for most of the day. This deeply personal insight into Hoda’s family life resonated with viewers, who appreciated her openness and vulnerability.

Hoda’s Reunion with Jenna Bush Hager

In addition to her Today return, Hoda also reunited with Jenna Bush Hager on Today with Jenna & Friends, where she will serve as a guest host. Jenna had teased the return by claiming her surprise guest would be a former basketball player turned bestselling author, throwing fans off the scent. When the reveal was made, Jenna excitedly said, “For one day only, Hoda Kotb is back!”

Hoda’s return to the Today show, both as a guest and co-host, underscores the strong bonds she has with her colleagues and the enduring affection that Today fans have for her. Despite her exit from the daily role, it’s clear that Hoda remains a vital part of the Today family.

Looking Ahead: Hoda’s Next Chapter

As Hoda continues to expand into new ventures and pursue her passion for wellness, fans are eager to see how her journey unfolds. Her ability to balance family, career, and personal growth sets an example for viewers who admire her resilience and positivity. Though she is no longer hosting Today daily, Hoda’s presence continues to inspire, whether through her wellness platform, her occasional appearances on television, or her candid reflections on life’s challenges.

Hoda’s return to Today, her new wellness initiative, and her clear love for her family paint a picture of a woman who is thriving in a new phase of her life, making a lasting impact both on and off the screen. Fans can look forward to what she’ll do next, whether it’s through new media projects or meaningful personal moments shared along the way.