Hoda Kotb replaces Matt Lauer as Today show co-anchor after sexual harassment scandal

Ms Kotb will continue to host her later, popular hour with Kathie Lee Gifford as well

Al Roker, Savannah Guthrie, and Hoda Kotb prepare for a segment on the set of NBC's Today Show, 29 November 2017 just hours after Matt Lauer had been fired for sexual misconduct. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Hoda Kotb has been named as the new co-host of NBC's flagship Today show after Matt Lauer was fired over allegations of sexual misconduct.

She will join co-host Savannah Guthrie after co-hosting the programme's 10am hour since 2008.

Ms Kotb has formed a memorable pairing with Kathie Lee Gifford, often going off-script during the programme.

The partnership will continue, but Ms Kotb will add the 7am and 8am hours to her rotation. Megyn Kelly will remain the 9am hour host for Today.

Ms Kotb worked on NBC's Dateline for ten years as a correspondent and before that worked as a reporter for several news stations around the country.

"This has to be the most popular decision NBC News has ever made," Ms Guthrie said.

Ms Kotb has been filling in for Mr Lauer on an interim basis since his firing.

"There's no one I'd rather be sitting next to in 2018 than you," Ms Kotb said as they took a picture with "Today" show veteran and co-anchor Al Roker

NBC News chairman Andy Lack announced Ms Kotb's promotion in a memo just before the programme on 2 January.

"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. They have an undeniable connection with each other and most importantly, with viewers, a hallmark of 'Today,'" Mr Lack wrote.

The show has been called a "profit machine" for the network, according to CNN, before Mr Lauer's dramatic departure after allegations of inappropriate sexual behaviour.

After his firing, Mr Lauer released a statement saying he was "truly sorry". The statement added: “Some of what is being said about me is untrue or mischaracterised, but there is enough truth in these stories to make me feel embarrassed and ashamed". He has since kept out of the public eye.

Ms Guthrie said Mr Lauer is "working on his family, we know that for sure."

Ratings seem to have actually seen a slight boost in the wake of the scandal, however - perhaps aided by Ms Guthrie and Ms Kotb's handling of the news the day it was announced Mr Lauer was sacked.

Having two women co-host the morning hours, rather than a male-female pairing is a break with tradition for Today.