Is Kelly Clarkson Leaving TV? Hoda Kotb Rumored as Replacement Amid Shocking Absences

Kelly Clarkson‘s talk show, renowned for its 1,000 episodes in the 2025 TV lineup, marked a significant achievement. The former American Idol contestant continues to be adored on daytime television, but rumors of her potential departure have stirred due to backstage complications and Clarkson’s unexpected absences. These issues and whispers about a potential replacement have left fans concerned.

The latest buzz about Kelly Clarkson possibly not extending her deal when it ends next year hints at Hoda Kotb, who’s well-known among NBC viewers, as a potential replacement for the prized time slot. A source close to the New York Post shared this information.

On the lengthy roster, you’ll find Hoda included. NBC has been reluctant to let go of Hoda. However, the question remains: Does Hoda wish to take on this role?

I recently stunned my followers by stepping away from “The Today Show” this year, as I yearned for additional time with my beloved two daughters. Similar to Kelly Clarkson, it seems that having a schedule that allows me to prioritize my own children might be a significant factor in her potential departure from daytime TV. Interestingly, the flexibility of the new schedule may be more suitable for Kotb than what she was accustomed to on the NBC morning show.

NBCUniversal might be delighted to welcome Hoda Kotb back, but it seems more beneficial for them to prevent Kelly Clarkson from departing initially. Over its five completed seasons, The Kelly Clarkson Show has amassed a total of 22 Daytime Emmy Awards, with Clarkson herself winning the Outstanding Daytime Talk Series Host title four times out of those five seasons. In fact, NBCUniversal was ready to relocate the show from Los Angeles to New York City for Clarkson in 2023.

Initially, there was a flurry of gossip when the host went absent without a trace during March and April, leaving her position temporarily filled by Simu Liu and other famous personalities. Subsequently, it was disclosed that these absences were caused by an urgent family matter.

It’s unclear if Kelly Clarkson is dealing with personal matters that demand attention, but it’s certain she has other ventures underway. She’s got a residency lined up at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, scheduled for July, August, and November. Additionally, she’s set to release a new album in June, featuring a song inspired by ‘Only Murders in the Building’.

Indeed, it’s been hinted that the fate of “The Kelly Clarkson Show” might significantly depend on how well her upcoming album performs. This is based on a suggestion made by an insider.

If the album isn’t successful, she might choose to continue her talk show. However, she has numerous projects ongoing, and it could be an opportune moment for a new phase in her career.

It’s hard for me to accept that Kelly Clarkson might be wrapping up her hit talk show, and learning that Hoda Kotb could potentially step in doesn’t exactly ease my concerns (even though I adore Kotb). Rumors also suggest other contenders like Wanda Sykes, Willie Geist, Molly Sims, Roy Wood Jr., Josh Groban, and Maria Shriver are being considered.

Kelly Clarkson’s current contract extends until 2026 and includes a seventh season of her talk show, which means there’s no immediate need for concern. But it’s important to stay tuned for any further developments in the meantime. You can catch The Kelly Clarkson Show every weekday on your local listings for both time and channel information.

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2025-05-09 15:45