NBC Staff Frustrated with Hoda Kotb Following Her Departure
Hoda Kotb’s transition from her role at NBC’s “Today” has sparked significant internal frustration among her colleagues. Following her exit from the morning show, Kotb has maintained connections with her former employer while launching her independent project, “Joy Rides.” Insiders reveal that this ongoing reliance has led to quiet resentment within NBC.
Frustration with Hoda Kotb’s Departure
Despite stepping back from her co-anchor position, Kotb continues to seek help from former colleagues as she develops her YouTube series. This has reportedly led to feelings of exhaustion among the staff, who feel overextended with their current responsibilities. An anonymous insider voiced concern, stating, “Many believe Hoda has become a perpetual pest, continually requesting favors.” What began as a friendly interaction has now turned into an added burden for the network’s busy team.
Launch of “Joy Rides”
- “Joy Rides” promises candid conversations with celebrities inside a car.
- The first episode, released on January 21, features Savannah Guthrie.
- Viewership for the initial episode has been modest, with only 9,497 views on a channel with under 2,000 subscribers.
Although intended as a fresh format, the premiere was reportedly met with mockery from NBC staff. Many considered the show’s debut to be awkward and unengaging. Producers expressed frustration, stating, “The staff are tired of finding content for Hoda’s app and feel that this project is absurd.” Concerns about the project’s future and its relevance are evident as employee burnout rises.
Savannah Guthrie’s Involvement
Guthrie’s role in the launch episode drew scrutiny, suggesting a lack of enthusiasm for the project. Insiders commented on the limited nature of her participation, attributing it to a lack of confidence in the project’s appeal. One insider remarked, “This speaks volumes about the sentiment surrounding Hoda’s attempts to stay relevant.”
Ratings Concerns Amid Internal Tension
The situation is further complicated by Guthrie’s recent medical absence. Reports indicate that during this time, ratings increased by 12% year-over-year, raising anxiety about her position within the network. Insiders noted that this situation has consumed her focus, leading to increased scrutiny over her on-air responsibilities.
Shifts in Workplace Dynamics
Many at NBC have observed changes in the atmosphere during Guthrie’s absence. Without her presence, staff reported a more relaxed and collaborative environment. One source stated, “There’s less tension on set now, making it feel more like friends sharing the space.” However, NBC has publicly countered this narrative, highlighting that “Today” is experiencing its highest ratings in 14 years.
As Hoda Kotb seeks to carve out her own identity post-exit, internal reactions suggest her departure has created unresolved tensions and shifts in workplace dynamics. What was anticipated to be a reinvigorating chapter seems to have exposed deeper issues within the NBC team.
