Hoda Kotb In Talks For Daytime Talk Show, Taking Over Kelly Clarkson’s Spot Following ‘Today’ Exit

Today alum Hoda Kotb is quietly being courted to take over for daytime talk show queen Kelly Clarkson, say sources — who add that network executives are ready to dish out big bucks to bring her back.

“Hoda with her own daytime talk show is pure gold,” gushes a top TV executive. “She’s the kind of personality who instantly connects with audiences, and networks are salivating at the thought of locking her down.”

As the National Enquirer has reported, Kelly, 43, continues to weigh spending more time on her music career and family, and she’s seriously considering ditching the daily TV grind after her contract ends in 2026.

Meanwhile, sources believe that Hoda, 60, could be a seamless and perfect transition.

“Hoda is beloved, trustworthy and warm,” praises the exec. “She makes people feel good, and you can’t teach that. She’s pure magic — and the networks know that.”

While Hoda has focused on being a single mom to her two daughters since leaving Today in January, insiders say she’s very tempted by the promise of her own talk show — and a massive paycheck to match.

NBC apparently isn’t the only player courting Hoda, as syndication companies and rival networks are also said to be interested.

“She’s daytime royalty,” notes one producer. “If Hoda wants a show, it’s hers.”

For now, Hoda is playing it cool. But friends believe that the idea of building a solo empire like Ellen DeGeneres or Rachael Ray is very much on her radar.

“She’s not desperate,” says a friend. “She’s in a position of power. If she comes back, it’ll be on her terms.”