In order to concentrate on a “family health problem,” Hoda Kotb has been taking a vacation from her Today show hosting responsibilities, her coworkers announced on Wednesday.
The Emmy-winning journalist, who co-anchors Today with Savannah Guthrie and co-hosts the fourth hour of the NBC daytime program with Jenna Bush Hager, hasn’t been on air since Feb. 17. However, she did make an appearance in a pre-taped episode of Today with Hoda and Jenna that aired on Feb. 20, President’s Day.
Her leaving wasn’t mentioned to the audience until Wednesday; Guthrie and company just said she was “out.” Guthrie has been supplanted by Sheinelle Jones and Craig Melvin, two members of the Today cast.
After testing positive for coronavirus on Tuesday morning, Guthrie herself was forced to leave the recording session.
Jones and Melvin were the show’s hosts on Wednesday. Melvin added further background about Kotb and Guthrie’s condition around the 7:30 a.m. mark.
Read More: AJ McLean’s Decision to Quit Alcohol Led to a Life-Changing Weight Loss Journey
“Hoda and Savannah’s absences were mentioned. After a positive COVID test yesterday, Savannah is now at home. We’re hoping for a quick recovery for our pal “said he. “As for Hoda, we are aware that many of you have been curious about how she is doing.
We can confirm that Hoda is well. We anticipate seeing Hoda and Savannah back at the desk very, very soon as she has been occupied with a family health issue.”
Al Roker, the Today weatherman, said, “We adore you both. Despite being absent, Kotb has been active on social media, posting words of encouragement and support.
On Monday, a message urged people to “choose hope,” while on Sunday, she said that “sometimes miracles are just nice people with loving hearts.”
“A toast to powerful women. May we get to know them? May we embody them. Can we bring them up? “Read Kotb’s post from February 24. “I see you… you powerful ladies, “Kotb included.
In another post from last week, a kid figure was advised, “One day you will see just how courageous you have been,” among other messages that discussed how “black clouds” go on.
Read More: Is Taylor Lewan Gay? The Mysterious Man Jeffree Star Has Been Teasing!
During Tuesday morning’s episode, viewers witnessed Guthrie exit in real-time. Halfway into the show, Jones informed the audience, “By the way, it has been an intriguing morning for us. “Savannah underwent a COVID test because, as we previously mentioned, she departed early and wasn’t feeling well.
That had a favorable result.”
Jones said, “She hurried home to rest up as soon as we learned the truth. We thus send our love and best wishes for a quick recovery to Savannah.”
Roker returned to Today in January after experiencing a health crisis of his own. He had been away for two months due to a health problem that was potentially fatal.
Guthrie, Kotb, and other supporters holding “Welcome Back” placards outside the studio welcomed the much-loved Today host.
Roker was aware that it was love. He said, “I have missed you all so much. “I consider you to be my second family, so it’s wonderful to be back and to be wearing trousers! It’s a lot of fun.”
My heart is literally overflowing,” he declared. “I’m simply so happy to see the staff and all of you. I’m now fueled by adrenaline.”