When Hoda Kotb became the "Today" co-anchor in 2018 following Matt Lauer's sexual misconduct scandal, she made history alongside Savannah Guthrie for becoming the first female duo to lead the program, CNBC highlighted. Al Roker was quick to congratulate his co-worker's achievement. "A hearty #congratulations to @hodakotb officially our new @TODAYshow #cohost with @SavannahGuthrie," he tweeted.
But not everyone agreed. "Sorry Hoda ur great with Kathylee but not as anchor. Was looking for a seasoned man — guess NBC doesn't have one," one Twitter user wrote in response to Roker's cheerful tweet. The weather anchor used the thread to point out the user's sexist remark. "Sounds like you want a steak, not an anchor," he retorted. The critic stood her ground, noting her issue was only with Kotb's personality. Roker wasn't buying it. "I guess 'seasoned man' has nothing to do with gender. I misunderstood. Have a great day," he replied.
Shortly after, Roker praised how easily Kotb adapted to the new position amid the grave atmosphere in the wake of Lauer's firing. "It's one of those things where it's just completely natural," he told Entertainment Tonight. "Hoda's been there and everybody loves Hoda so it's been seamless." Roker is also a fan of how Kotb juggles work and family. In March, he shared a clip of his co-star delivering news while holding her two kids. "Be #everyparent who brings their kids on a #worktrip," he captioned the Instagram post.
