AceShowbiz - NBC executives are reportedly scrambling to keep Savannah Guthrie on the "Today" show following Hoda Kotb's surprise announcement that she would be leaving the show early next year. Kotb, who has co-anchored "Today" with Guthrie since 2017, announced her departure on Thursday, September 26, stating that she was ready for a new chapter in her life.

Guthrie's contract with NBC is up for renewal next year, and the network is eager to re-sign her. According to Daily Mail, "the bosses are hoping that they can persuade Guthrie to stay on and replace Kotb with another familiar face from the NBC family."

While Kotb cited her family as the reason behind her exit, rumor suggested a pay cut to her $20 million salary played a role in her decision.

Now insiders reveal two frontrunners eyed to replace Kotb on the show: Craig Melvin and Laura Jarrett. Melvin is currently the news anchor on "Today" and co-hosts the show's third hour while Jarrett co-anchors the Saturday edition of "Today."

"There is more leeway with Jenna [Bush Hager] and who will join her after Hoda leaves," a source told Daily Mail. "It could be a revolving door until someone sticks. The job to join Jenna is going to be a work in progress and could be anyone at this point."

The departure of Kotb is a significant change for the "Today" show. She has been a fan favorite for years and has helped to make the show one of the most popular morning news programs in the country. Her departure will likely lead to a period of transition for the show as NBC tries to find a new co-anchor who can match Kotb's popularity and chemistry with Guthrie.

In addition to the main "Today" broadcast, Kotb also co-anchors the 10 a.m. hour of the show with Jenna Bush Hager. It is unclear who will replace Kotb in that role.

Kotb's departure is also a blow to NBC News. She has been one of the network's most recognizable and beloved personalities for over two decades. Her departure will leave a significant void at the network.