NBC Staff Frustrated with Hoda Kotb Following Her Departure

Hoda Kotb’s move away from NBC’s “Today” show was anticipated to signal a positive new chapter in her career. However, insiders report that her recent endeavors have led to frustration and resentment among her former colleagues. As she embarks on her YouTube project, “Joy Rides,” feelings within NBC suggest a growing fatigue with her ongoing requests for assistance.

NBC Staff Frustrated with Hoda Kotb’s Departure

One year after leaving her co-anchor position, Kotb has reportedly leaned heavily on her former NBC colleagues. Insiders describe her outreach as a burden rather than a friendly request. A source referred to Kotb as a “perpetual pest,” indicating staff dissatisfaction with her repeated asks for help.

Staff Response to Kotb’s New Project

• Her project, “Joy Rides,” is a series focusing on celebrity interviews in cars.
• The first episode, featuring Savannah Guthrie, aired on January 21.
• Insiders criticized the show’s debut as unsteady and awkward, with significant mockery behind the scenes.
• A producer expressed that staff felt exhausted and were not obligated to find content for Kotb’s new venture.

Despite being a popular figure, Kotb’s charm may no longer suffice. Colleagues are feeling burnout from existing responsibilities at NBC, casting doubt on her new direction. There seems to be a collective weariness regarding her project as it does not align with their regular duties.

Mixed Reactions to Savannah Guthrie’s Involvement

Guthrie’s participation in the launch episode has raised eyebrows among NBC staff. Sources indicated her brief appearance did little to uplift team spirits regarding “Joy Rides.” One insider implied that Guthrie’s limited engagement reflected disinterest, suggesting her involvement was more about Kotb’s need for relevance.

Initial viewership data reveals that the episode garnered just under 10,000 views, with the associated YouTube channel having fewer than 2,000 subscribers. This low engagement has reinforced skepticism among NBC critics about the show’s viability.

Concerns About Ratings and Team Dynamics

As “Today” navigates through changes, ratings data has revealed a 12 percent year-on-year increase during the recent holiday season. This surge coincided with Guthrie’s absence due to vocal cord surgery. Sources report that Guthrie is highly concerned about this shift and her perceived relevance moving forward.

Feedback from staff suggests a notable change in dynamics at NBC in Guthrie’s absence. Reports indicate a more relaxed atmosphere, where team members feel liberated from the pressures of hierarchical authority. Some have expressed that the environment became more collaborative without Guthrie’s dominating presence.

As Kotb pursues her new path, the reaction from NBC staff reveals unresolved tensions following her exit. What was meant to be a fresh start suggests a growing divide and highlights how swiftly the industry moves on from its stars, leaving them to navigate challenges on their own.