NBC took FTVLive's advice and named Hoda Kotb as Matt Lauer's replacement. 

The Today Show started off 2018, by naming Kotb the new co-anchor of Today. She had been filling in since the day Lauer was sacked. 

"It’s 2018 and we are kicking off the year right because Hoda is officially the co-anchor of Today," Guthrie announced after the program's opening announcement featuring Kotb's name for the first time. "This has to be the most popular decision NBC News have ever made and I’m so thrilled."

After the pair replayed the opening program, Kotb noted her name was "pronounced right and everything."

"I’m pinching myself," she said.

"You are a partner and a friend and a sister and I am so happy to be doing this," Guthrie added.

"Over the past several weeks, Hoda has seamlessly stepped into the co-anchor role alongside Savannah, and the two have quickly hit the ground running," Lack said in an email Tuesday to staff. "They have an undeniable connection with each other and most importantly, with viewers, a hallmark of TODAY.