Sources mentioned execs are dissatisfied that some viewers stopped tuning in after Kotb hit the street.
An insider mentioned: “Savannah and Jenna got keys to the dominion. However they are not shifting the needle, and you’ll make sure the community is not going to take a seat idly by.”
Gossip flew about unique American Idol champ Clarkson, 43, coming to At this time when she just lately took a break from her self-named discuss present, which is distributed by NBCUniversal Syndication Studios.
A supply shared: “NBC execs feared she was shedding fellow Texan Hager, who’s taken over the present’s fourth hour, which is now branded as At this time with Jenna & Buddies.
“Rankings for Kelly’s present have been sliding, however NBC nonetheless sees her as a scorching property and desires to maintain her on board — and assist At this time within the course of. They imagine she is going to herald new viewers — and push ABC’s Good Morning America and CBS Mornings additional into their rearview mirror.”
The previous first daughter has helmed the broadcast with celeb sidekicks instead of Kotb, together with actresses Scarlett Johansson and Eva Longoria.
However one other supply mentioned NBC is hankering for a everlasting alternative for Kotb – and Clarkson is their prime candidate.